[citation needed] Occording to traditional Indonesian folklore, there was once a girl whose fiancé had left to go trading.

Her twisting and turning to balance the candle appeared to look like beautiful dance moves.

[4] Traditionally, the Candle Dance strictly happened during festivals around the Harvest Season: honoring the god of their community, to convey gratitude to God for the prosperity of the community, and to pray for a bountiful harvest.

Dancers balance small plates holding burning candles in the palms of their hands.

[4] The dance is usually accompanied by Minang music played on traditional instruments like the Talempong, the Saluang, and the Kendang.