The return of Yay Kyaw Festival
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Tin Zar Lynn (NP News) - Nov 25
The event that has not been held for over four years, the "Yay Kyaw Festival," is currently being held as part of National Day celebrations. Previously, it was held every October, but this year, it is being celebrated from November 22 to 26, in commemoration of National Day. The Yay Kyaw Festival began around one year before Myanmar's independence, starting in 1947. It was first organized by the residents of Ward 8 in Pazundaung Township and has been held annually without interruption since then. However, the last Yay Kyaw Festival was held in 2019, and due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it was not possible to organize the event for the following years. This year marks the return of the festival after a hiatus.
I visited the festival on its second day (November 23). This is my first time participating in the event. Henceforth, I would like to share my first-hand experiences and the joyful moments during the festival.
A sea of people at the Yay Kyaw Festival
The Yay Kyaw Festival is as crowded as a sea of people. The vibrant atmosphere is filled with excitement, and the streets are bustling with attendees from all walks of life. It’s a spectacle of colors, sounds, and energy, with people eagerly participating in the festivities. The sheer number of visitors makes it feel like an ocean of humanity, all coming together to celebrate.
The tempting flavors of the Yay Kyaw Festival
The food offerings are diverse, and their enticing aromas draw visitors from all directions. The variety of delicious dishes, from local street food to traditional specialties, fills the air with mouthwatering scents, making it impossible for anyone to resist sampling the delights on offer.
Every food stall is packed with visitors, and at times, it can be difficult to find a seat to enjoy your meal. The popularity of the food draws so many people that the seating areas are often full, creating a lively, yet sometimes chaotic, dining experience.
Thrills and mystique
There are many merry-go-rounds for children, and they find pure joy as they ride them. The giant Ferris wheel is the main attraction, drawing large crowds of people eager to take their turn. It's an exciting experience, offering breathtaking views and loads of fun for everyone who gets on. The excitement in the air is palpable as people eagerly await their turn to enjoy the ride.
The tarot and fortune-telling stalls are also quite fascinating. Visitors flock to these booths, curious to learn what the future may hold for them. The mystique of the readings adds a touch of intrigue to the festival, with people eagerly seeking guidance or simply enjoying the experience.
The vibrant and colorful atmosphere of the festival is sure to captivate the audience, filling them with excitement. After a four-year hiatus, the event is being held again, and the recent challenges and stresses of daily life seem to fade away for a while, allowing people to temporarily forget their worries and frustrations. As a result, everyone is eager to participate and enjoy the festivities. Many visitors have commented that this year’s festival is as lively and joyful as in previous years. Since the event lasts only five days, I encourage everyone to make sure they attend at least for a day and join in the celebration.