As Hoa Binh province is set to host 115 spring festivals, local departments, sectors and localities are joining hands to ensure safety for the events.
The Khai Ha (going
down to the field) festival is organised to preserve and promote local cultural
values while developing tourism.
The
northern mountainous province, known for its diverse folk festivals, held two
provincial-level festivals, namely Tien Pagoda festival on the fourth day of
the Lunar New Year in Lac Thuy district, and the Khai ha (going down to the
field) festival on the 8th day of the Lunar New Year in Tan Lac district. There
are eight district- or city-level festivals and 56 communal-or ward-level
festivals while 49 are held at the village level.
According
to Deputy Director of the provincial Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism
Luu Huy Linh, the department has asked district and city authorities to ensure
the festivals are organised properly, maintaining traditional values while
promoting safety and efficiency.
The
festivals’ organising boards have been requested to raise public awareness to
prevent wasteful practices like burning of votive papers which could affect the
environment as well as fire and explosion prevention work. Besides, they have
been urged to enhance inspections and supervisions to prevent gambling and
superstitious activities, while settling violations regarding fire prevention
and control, social order, and other related laws in a timely manner.
Hoa
Binh authorities are calling on both local people and tourists to participate
responsibly and adhere to the State’s regulations on festival organisation
since the success of these events relies heavily on community cooperation.
The Muong group is one of the largest ethnic minorities in Vietnam, primarily found in Hoa Binh province. The Muong people in Hoa Binh boast a rich and diverse cultural treasure that reflects the unique identity of this ethnic group. Accounting for over 63% of the province's population, they have created and preserved numerous distinctive cultural values, contributing to their unique identity. Their cultural heritage is an invaluable asset, at the heart of their national identity, and represents a vibrant spiritual life that must be preserved and promoted in today’s modern world.
For generations, the ethnic communities of Hoa Binh province, particularly the Muong people, have preserved vibrant festivals deeply intertwined with the region’s geography, nature, and social traditions. These celebrations enrich Hoa Binh’s spiritual life and cultural identity, reflecting both folk beliefs and the intermingling of ethnic customs. Many of these festivals have endured the test of time, passed down through generations and continuing to thrive today. Among them, the Khai Ha (Going Down to the Field) festival stands out as one of the most significant events of the Muong ethnic group.
Muong calendar, known as sach doi, is an ancient folk knowledge system developed through observations of the movement of the pleiades star. This unique calendar consists of 12 bamboo sticks, each representing a lunar month. Specific days within each month are marked with distinct symbols, guiding locals in determining auspicious and inauspicious days for important activities.
Authorities and residents of Chieng Chau commune, Mai Chau district, are making efforts to preserve and promote the historical value of a centuries-old gold apple tree (scientifically known as diospyros decandra lour), which has been recognised as a national heritage tree.
Hoa Binh is home to two types of Dong Son drums: Heger I and Heger II. These drums date back from the 4th century BC to the 5th century AD.
Mo is a term referring to a profession and cultural heritage which integrates folk beliefs with folk culture and arts. Practiced at funerals and religious rituals by the Muong ethnic people, it aims to provide spiritual comfort during significant life events such as illness and death.
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