The Shan people are an ethnic group primarily found in Shan State, a region in Myanmar. They are part of the larger Tai ethnic family and share cultural and linguistic ties with other Tai groups in Southeast Asia. The Shan language is part of the Tai-Kadai language family, and the Shan people have a rich cultural heritage that includes traditional music, dance, and festivals. Many Shan people practice Buddhism, which plays a significant role in their daily lives and community activities. They are known for their unique traditional clothing, particularly the colorful longyi worn by women. The Shan people also engage in agriculture, cultivating rice, tea, and various fruits, contributing to their local economy.