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On the evening of October 11th, the 2025 Fudian Bank · Kunming Half Marathon's “Runners' Night” series of events unfolded spectacularly north of the Shilin Gymnasium. Over 12,000 participating runners and coaches from all corners of the country gathered, fueling their energy and cheering each other on for the upcoming race amidst music, dance, and cheerful laughter.

As the lights of the city began to twinkle, the enchanting night sky became the backdrop where music and sports passionately intertwined. The Wind Ensemble of the Kunming Nie Er Symphony Orchestra took the stage first. Dressed in elegant black formal wear, the musicians' performance was a harmonious blend of the trumpet's clear blast, the trombone's robust sound, and the French horn's mellow tone, showcasing the multilayered beauty and rhythmic dynamism of music. The opening piece, “The Magnificent Seven,” was grand and majestic, setting an uplifting tone for the entire performance. “Melody of the Five Tones” used traditional pentatonic scales as its foundation, integrating modern arrangement techniques to showcase the vibrant vitality of ethnic music. Classic hits by Mayday and Teresa Teng were reinterpreted, evoking emotional resonance among runners from different generations. The rich and diverse repertoire, spanning film and television, pop, and folk music, vividly conveyed the city's spirit of health, vitality, and inclusivity.

Following this, the Yi ethnic Sani dance, “Welcome to Shilin,” pushed the atmosphere to its peak. Dancers, adorned in vibrant ethnic costumes, swayed to the melodious ensemble of the “dasanxian” (three-stringed instrument) and Yueqin (moon lute). Their skirts fluttered with the breeze, and the silver ornaments on their headscarves tinkled crisply. The dance movements captured the rugged charm of Shilin's unique rock formations, ingeniously weaving in the touching legends of Ashima and Ahei Ge.

As the “Runners' Night” progressed with great fervor, the atmosphere grew increasingly lively. Locally distinctive dances like “Dragon · Tide” and “Guests from Afar, Please Stay,” along with songs such as “This is Kunming” and “This is Yunnan,” were performed consecutively, captivating the audience with their brilliance and earning continuous rounds of applause and cheers. Spectators swayed gently to the rhythm, transforming the venue into a sea of joy. Phones were raised to capture the scene; with a swipe, they sealed the vibrant fusion of local culture and runners’ vitality.

As the lingering notes of the “dasanxian” echoed in the night sky, a warm bonfire was lit in the center of the venue. Pine logs crackled, and orange-red flames shot up several meters high, casting a warm glow on everyone's faces. Runners joined hands, forming circles, and danced enthusiastically to the rhythm. In the flickering firelight, the pre-race tension gradually dissipated, as runners and Shilin embraced each other deeply in this fervent bonfire dance. Mr. Chen from Hubei expressed his sentiment, “In past races, I always participated alone. Today, holding hands with everyone, singing and dancing, I've made many new friends and can share fun stories about the race together. This feeling is absolutely fantastic!”

The dancing circle spun with increasing merriment, and under the bonfire's glow, the smiling faces of runners from all directions blended – diverse accents merged into a shared passion amidst the revelry. This night was not just a pre-race gathering, but a warm encounter and a cultural resonance that spanned mountains and seas.

Beyond the joy and excitement, a relaxed lifestyle was also a melody of the “Runners' Night.” The motorhome coffee house, with its toasty aroma, invited participants to slow down and savor Shilin's night. Groups of friends sat around tables, holding crispy croissants in their hands, their laughter floating gently on the breeze... Gentle breezes, smiling faces, happiness, and relaxation – this is the essence of life in Shilin.

Click here to view the Chinese report

(Editors: Jennifer, Alice)