Van Loc Temple Festival

Van Loc Temple Festival

Van Loc Temple was classified as a National Historical Monument by the State in 1991. It is a place of worship for Grand Marshal Nguyen Su Hoi, who was instrumental in attracting people and establishing the village of Van Loc more than 500 years ago, and also houses the worship of several deities, scholars, and laureates from the village.

The Van Loc Temple is situated amidst a majestic and picturesque landscape of mountains and rivers: in front is Bang Nhan Mountain, to the right is Rong Mountain, to the left is Tuong Son Mountain, behind is Lo Son Mountain, and to the east and south are Lan Chau, Song Ngu, and Mat Islands. The beauty of the Van Loc region has been the subject of many literary figures and poets. Nguyen Su Hoi, the main figure worshipped in the temple, was the eldest son of Grand Tutor Cuong Quoc Cong Nguyen Xi, one of the founding heroes of the Later Le Dynasty. Born into a prestigious family (from Nghi Hop commune, Nghi Loc district, Nghe An province), and receiving a thorough education, he inherited heroic blood and early displayed talent in both literature and martial arts. As a skilled general, Nguyen Su Hoi was married to a princess by the king. He, along with his father and several loyal officials, helped suppress the rebels who usurped the throne, bringing Le Tu Thanh (later King Le Thanh Tong) to the throne, contributing to the golden age of the Vietnamese feudal system (15th century). After Nguyen Xi's death (1465), following the court's plan and his father's dying wish, Nguyen Su Hoi requested to return to govern the coastal region of Nghe An to reclaim land and protect the southern border of the country. The king appointed Nguyen Su Hoi as the Governor of the Twelve Sea Gates (guarding 12 sea gates from Sam Son to Cua Tung, with the main base at Cua Xa (Cua Lo today)). Historical records show that Nguyen Su Hoi gathered farmers and fishermen to reclaim land and establish Van Loc village (now Nghi Tan ward). Soon after, Van Loc village expanded and became a prosperous village with diverse occupations and many successful children. In 1506, Nguyen Su Hoi died, and the court granted the village permission to build a temple in his honor. The temple dedicated to Nguyen Su Hoi was completed in 1508 and was bestowed the title of Supreme Blessed Deity.

In the history of academic achievement, Van Loc is famous in Nghe An province for its 66 Bachelors of Arts, 12 Provincial Scholars, 1 Master of Arts, 1 Vice-Bachelor, and 1 Doctor of Philosophy. In martial arts and medicine, this land also boasts many talented individuals, as the ancients summarized: "In literature, they excel with their pens; in martial arts, they wield their swords; and in medicine, no other place can compare."

Therefore, besides worshipping Nguyen Su Hoi, the people also worship a number of other deities and scholars at Van Loc Temple.

Every year, around the Lunar New Year, usually every three years, the people of Cua Lo's riverside area solemnly organize the Van Loc Temple Festival to commemorate the merits of Grand Marshal Nguyen Su Hoi and the deities worshipped in the temple, and to pray for calm seas, peaceful waters, and a bountiful harvest. To relive the heroic atmosphere of the past and to bridge the gap between the past, present, and future, the Van Loc Temple Festival features many vibrant activities. In addition to the rituals of worshipping the deities, the people of Van Loc village also organize processions, traditional boat races, cultural exchanges, and sports events. Besides fulfilling the spiritual needs and aspirations of the people of Cua Lo and visitors from all over, contributing to the preservation and promotion of national cultural identity, it is also an opportunity for Cua Lo town to promote its tourism potential.

According to the plan, the 2008 Van Loc Temple Festival was a town-wide festival, held over two days (the 15th and 16th of the first lunar month). The ceremonies on the 15th included: the opening ceremony and the announcement ceremony; the ceremonies on the 16th included: the worship of the gods, the procession, the enthronement ceremony, the grand sacrifice, the prayer for blessings, and the prayer for peace. The festival includes visits to several historical sites in Van Loc such as Hoang Tam Church, Lo Son Pagoda, and folk games like boat racing, tug-of-war, human chess, and cockfighting. To give the festival a modern feel, the organizing committee has included activities such as photo exhibitions, cultural performances, and competitions in football, volleyball, and table tennis. Mr. Nguyen Si Hiep, Vice Chairman of Nghi Tan Ward, said: "We will try to organize the festival in the true form and identity of a traditional festival, while incorporating the atmosphere of today's life, creating a sense of respect and relaxation for the local people and visitors participating in the festival."

Cong Kien