The grand opening ceremony of Duc Hoang Temple Festival 2018

Duc Hoang Temple was built in the 13th century, worshiping gods who had contributed to protecting the country and the people, the central figure of which was Hoang Ta Thon - the commander of tens of thousands of troops and ships, defeating the Yuan-Mongol invaders during the Tran Dynasty, and was granted the title of Sat Hai Dai Vuong by the king. He also had great merit in recruiting people to establish hamlets, open up land and establish villages, so he was revered by the people as the village's tutelary god.

The procession of the gods at the Duc Hoang Temple Festival in 2018. Photo: Huy Thu

The Duc Hoang Temple Festival 2018 was held from March 14 to 18. This is an annual traditional festival, solemnly held to commemorate the merits of Sat Hai Dai Vuong Hoang Ta Thon, and at the same time meet the spiritual and cultural needs of the people and tourists from all over.

Carrying Uncle Ho's portrait at Duc Hoang Temple Festival. Photo: Huy Thu

The festival takes place with activities in the ceremonial part such as: opening ceremony, procession, reception (rally), and grand ceremony.

The festival activities are attractive with many folk games such as swinging, boat racing, wrestling, tug of war, stick pushing, cockfighting, chess or drum beating competition, men's and women's volleyball competition, elegant youth competition, and folk song club festival.

Together we offer to the gods the fragrant flowers and sweet fruits of the rice fields. Photo: Huy Thu

Coming to Duc Hoang Temple Festival is to return to the spiritual and cultural roots, an opportunity for everyone to visit and admire a unique architectural work, and to immerse themselves in a typical sacred festival in the rice district.

A large number of locals and tourists attended the festival. Photo: Huy Thu