(Baonghean.vn) - On September 2nd, the atmosphere in the villages of the resettlement area (Thanh Chuong) was truly vibrant and joyful. People temporarily postponed all their daily work to dedicate the entire day to celebrating Independence Day.
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| As is tradition, in the early days of September, people in the villages of Ngoc Lam and Thanh Son communes eagerly celebrate Independence Day. They usually gather at relatives' homes or at village temples (where there are ancient, sacred trees) to hold festivities. Photo: Huy Thu. |
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| Communal kitchens were set up right beside the streams to serve communal gatherings. Photo: Huy Thu. |
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| Buffalo meat is one of the dishes that locals use to offer to the gods at the village temple. The meat is finely chopped and placed in bamboo baskets. Photo: Huy Thu. |
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| The ritual offering to the village deity requires one pig or one buffalo, and two jars of wine. The shaman (called Chầu Đằm) will perform traditional ceremonies, inviting the spirits and ancestors to witness and bless the villagers with health, peace, and prosperity. Photo: Huy Thư. |
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| After offering prayers and incense to the gods, food is served right on the open spaces around the temple. The simple feast consists of buffalo meat and sticky rice, arranged on banana leaves. Everyone gathers to eat and enjoy themselves. Photo: Huy Thu. |
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| On this day, all the villagers take time off from work to organize meals, have fun, and participate in sports and cultural activities… Photo: Huy Thu. |
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| Besides being offered as sacrifices and eaten on the spot, buffalo meat is also divided among those who stay at home. Each person attending the festival usually takes a package of buffalo meat with them when they leave. Photo: Huy Thu. |
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| The spontaneous cultural performances, the traditional Thai dances and songs sung during Independence Day, further strengthened the bonds of community among the villagers. Photo: Huy Thu. |
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| This year's Independence Day brought great joy to the people in the resettlement area because they have been able to utilize the potential of their land, earning additional income from growing tea, acacia trees, etc. Many households have been quick to seize market opportunities and have risen to become wealthy or well-off. Photo: Huy Thu. |
Huy Thu
