Entertainment in Dali
Dali is simply a prosperous Chinese city that has sprung up in the region. And known as an established backpacker Mecca and as such is home to a number of decent coffee shops, pizza joints and pubs. Though there's not much in the way of major cultural events in Dali, there are a number of Bai performances and festivals worth checking out, especially in the old town at night.
Bars & Clubs
The bars and cafés on Huguo Lu are chock-a-block with foreign and Chinese travelers well into the night. Tibet Café, Sunshine Café, Old Wooden House and Dali Window on Boai Lu are good places knock back a cold one. Bird bar on Renmin Lu has a decent pool table and fun atmosphere. Café de Jack on Boai Lu often hosts live music in the evenings. Many of the "coffee shops" have a little bit of Amsterdam to them—it's not uncommon to come across travelers sampling the locally grown product (this may cause some to extend their stays while others may just feel annoyed by repeated pitches from Dali's weed peddlers). Note that marijuana is fully illegal in China and one tokes at one's own risk.
Performing Arts
The Bai nationality is famous for their hospitality and their love of dancing and singing. In modern times, tourists can see Bai performances of "local folklore". The classic performance includes the three cups of tea" ceremony and Bai dance. These performances are often included in one-day tours of Dali (the ancient city area). One of the most famous places to see these is in Yan's courtyard in Xizhou, a famous tourist attraction not far from the ancient city of Dali. There, daily performances start at 9am and 2pm, and admission is RMB20.
Tourists can watch traditional Bai song and dance performances as part of package tours in Dali or visit to the traditional Bai village of Xizhou, which is well worth the trip.
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