Nghe An: Elementary school students enthusiastically practice wrapping buffalo horn-shaped cakes and writing wishes in the Thai script.
Minh Quan•March 7, 2026 07:45
Through folk melodies, traditional games, activities to learn the Thai script, and enjoying local cuisine, elementary school students have the opportunity to explore the diverse cultural colors of the Thai people in western Nghe An province in the "Flavors of the Highlands" program.
On March 6th and 7th, the Nghe An – Soviet Nghe Tinh Museum organized an experiential program titled “The Flavors and Colors of the Highlands” for students from Hong Son Primary School (Truong Vinh Ward) and Nghi Kim Primary School (Vinh Hung Ward). The cultural space of the Thai ethnic group in western Nghe An was vividly recreated right in the heart of the city. Photo: Minh QuanFolk melodies and traditional musical instrument sounds of the Thai ethnic group, performed by artisans from the Thai Folk Song - Folk Dance - Traditional Musical Instruments Club of Con Cuong commune, opened the program with the vibrant spring atmosphere of western Nghe An province. Photo: Minh QuanThe folk dance performances of the Thai ethnic group captivated the students' attention. For many, this was their first time experiencing the distinctive melodies of the mountainous region of Nghe An province. Photo: Minh QuanBesides observing, the students also participated in folk games such as bamboo pole jumping. The initial awkwardness quickly gave way to joyful laughter. Photo: Minh QuânThe children enjoyed trying their hand at throwing the ball – a familiar game in many festivals of ethnic minority groups. Photo: Minh QuanThe artisan introduced traditional musical instruments of the Thai ethnic group, helping students understand more about the crafting process and the significance of each instrument. Photo: Minh QuanUnder the guidance of a master craftsman, students try playing the gourd flute for the first time – a traditional musical instrument of the Thai people. Photo: Minh QuanThe MC introduced the "picture riddle" game in Thai, offering a lively approach to the language of the ethnic minorities in the mountainous regions. Photo: Minh QuânMany quick-witted students volunteered to participate in the Thai word-guessing game. Photo: Minh QuanUpon observing the loom weaving brocade for the first time, many children showed great interest in learning about this traditional craft that has long been associated with Thai women. Photo: Minh QuanArtisans instruct students on how to wear the traditional headscarves and hats of the Thai ethnic group. Photo: Minh Quan.Two students wearing traditional headscarves after being instructed by an artisan on how to wear them. Photo: Minh QuânStudents meticulously write their wishes in Thai script on small cards; this is the first time they have been introduced to the writing system of the ethnic minorities in western Nghe An province. Photo: Minh QuanWish cards were hung on the "wish tree," creating a colorful experience corner within the program. Photo: Minh QuanUnder the guidance of an artisan, students try their hand at wrapping buffalo horn-shaped cakes – a traditional treat of the ethnic minorities in the mountainous region of Nghe An province. Photo: Minh QuanConcluding their exploration journey, the students gathered to enjoy purple sticky rice, buffalo horn-shaped cakes, and bamboo-cooked rice – signature flavors of western Nghe An province. Photo: Minh Quan