Once a vibrant part of the daily life for the Muong ethnic group in Hoa Binh province, traditional Muong singing styles such as "thuong rang bo meng” and "hat dup giao duyen” had faded over time. Today, local authorities and communities are working to restore and celebrate this cultural art form, recognising its value in preserving the group’s heritage.
Artisans at the "thuong rang bo meng” festival in Lac Son district in 2024.
At the start of each year, festivals in the four major Muong regions including Bi, Vang, Thang, and Dong, featuring lively singing competitions and performances. Notably, the 2023 Khai Ha Festival in Muong Bi in Tan Lac district spotlighted "hat dup giao duyen” as a key event, attracting hundreds of artists and drawing significant community engagement. Similar activities are planned for the 2024 Khai Ha Festival and other cultural events like the traditional fishing festival in Lo Son.
In Muong Vang in Lac Son district, Muong singing remains a cherished cultural expression, enriching festivals, communal celebrations, and even tourist activities. Numerous local singing clubs actively perform and collaborate with counterparts from other regions, further fostering cultural exchange. In November 2024, Lac Son hosted its first "thuong rang bo meng” festival, gathering over 300 artists from across the region.
According to Bui Thi Tham, Director of the Centre for Culture - Sports and Communications, the festival provided a platform for artists to share their talent and celebrate the Muong identity, while creating opportunities for cultural learning and exchange.
Distinguished cultural researcher and artist Bui Huy Vong emphasised the rich poetic themes of Muong singing, which range from love and greetings to festivals and agriculture. Performances often reflect deep knowledge and improvisational skills, blending traditional melodies with heartfelt lyrics. Efforts to preserve Muong singing have gained momentum, with the art form becoming increasingly popular in both traditional and modern contexts.
In 2023, it was among two cultural traditions nominated for recognition as national intangible cultural heritage. These initiatives aim to ensure the enduring legacy of Muong culture, fostering pride and cultural continuity for future generations.
On February 12th (i.e. Lunar January 15), the People's Committee of Hop Tien commune, Kim Boi district organized the Festival of Sim Pagoda Festival in At Ty Spring, 2025. The festival welcomed many people and tourists to visit the pagoda and enjoy the scenery.
The palanquin procession to Sim Pagoda.
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.
In many major cultural events in Hanoi, the sound of the Muong people's gongs has become a special tone, contributing to the unique harmony that praises the cultural values accumulated over thousands of years along with the sacred soul of the capital city.
On the first day back to work and school after the Lunar New Year holiday, thousands of female officials, civil servants, and students from grade nine and above in Lac Son district proudly wore the traditional Muong attire. The vibrant brocade patterns created a striking cultural display, reinforcing the community's commitment to preserving and promoting their heritage.
The provincial-level Khai Ha festival 2025 of the Muong ethnic minority group took place at Phong Phu commune’s stadium in Tan Lac district of Hoa Binh province on the morning of February 5 (the 8th day of the first lunar month of the Year of the Snake).
"Xuong Dong” (going to the field) festival opened in Yen Phu commune of Hoa Binh’s Lac Son district on February 5, or the eighth day of the Year of the Snake, drawing thousands of locals and visitors to partake in a variety of activities.
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