The unique "Going to the Fields Festival" in Muong Chong commune.
On the morning of January 26th, the People's Committee of Muong Chong commune (Nghe An province) organized the "Farming Festival" for the Spring of the Year of the Horse 2026, hoping for a year of favorable weather and a bountiful harvest.
This year's "Going Down to the Fields Festival" was organized by the People's Committee of Muong Chong commune to create a joyful and enthusiastic atmosphere to celebrate the Party and the Lunar New Year of the Horse 2026; and also to encourage all sectors of the population to compete in labor and production, and improve crop yields.
The program incorporates cultural and artistic activities, folk games, and traditional games to encourage and create a lively atmosphere, attracting a large number of young people and tourists to participate, such as gong and drum performances, furrow carving, bamboo pole dancing, throwing the ball, tug-of-war, etc. Especially, the highlight of the festival is the "Rice Planting Competition," which attracts the participation of 20 teams representing 20 villages. Each team consists of the most outstanding members, carefully selected by their respective villages. They are not only skilled laborers but also carry the pride and "colors" of their villages.
Immediately after the opening whistle, the teams raced to plant the rice seedlings. The hands of the women and mothers moved swiftly and rhythmically, like a dance. The young rice seedlings were planted straight into the mud. Along the edges of the fields, hundreds of people from 20 villages crowded the area. Banners bearing the names of the villages, the rhythmic beating of drums, and shouts of encouragement created a lively atmosphere.
After an hour of competition, the rice planting contest concluded. The judges evaluated not only the speed but also the straightness of the rows, the spacing between the rice plants, and the technique used to protect the seedlings from damage. Based on objective and fair evaluation, the organizing committee awarded one first prize to Con Xao village; two second prizes to Manh and Khua villages. In addition, the organizing committee awarded three third prizes and fourteen consolation prizes to the participating teams.
"The 'Going Down to the Fields Festival' is not only a ritual marking the beginning of a new planting season, but also a spiritual bridge connecting people with nature, expressing the burning desire for a bountiful harvest year; at the same time, it aims to promote and preserve the local cultural identity."
