Thousands of people gathered in Liupanshui, Guizhou province, on Saturday to light bonfires and handheld torches at the start of the annual Torch Festival.

The festival, traditionally celebrated by the Yi ethnic group to drive away evil spirits and pray for a bountiful harvest, opened with the ceremonial lighting of a sacred flame, after which crowds joined torchlit circle dances.

To draw visitors, especially younger tourists, this year's festivities feature electronic music concerts, camping and other outdoor activities. The celebration will run for about a month.