1. Can you tell us about the history of Van Hanh Pagoda?
Van Hanh Pagoda is a Buddhist temple located in District 5 of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Its history dates back to the early 20th century, when a group of Chinese immigrants built a small shrine in the area.
The original shrine was dedicated to Guanyin, the Bodhisattva of Compassion, and served as a gathering place for the local Chinese community to practice their Buddhist faith. The shrine was frequently visited by Vietnamese Buddhists as well.
In 1932, the shrine was expanded and renamed Van Hanh Temple after Venerable Thich Tri Quang, who had become its abbot and greatly enhanced its reputation. During this period, the temple also became a hub for social and cultural activities for both Chinese and Vietnamese people.
In 1956, Venerable Thich Tri Quang passed away and his disciples continued his work in expanding and renovating the temple complex. This included constructing a new main hall and several smaller temples dedicated to different Buddhas and Bodhisattvas. The temple’s architecture combines traditional Chinese influences with Vietnamese architectural styles.
During the Vietnam War, Van Hanh Pagoda played an important role as a sanctuary for anti-war protestors and provided aid to civilians affected by the conflict. It also provided shelter for Buddhist monks who were persecuted by the Ngo Dinh Diem regime.
After the war ended in 1975, Van Hanh Pagoda resumed its role as a place of religious worship and cultural events. Today, it continues to be one of the most popular temples in Ho Chi Minh City, attracting visitors from all over Vietnam and around the world.
2. What are some notable features of Van Hanh Pagoda?
One notable feature of Van Hanh Pagoda is its impressive architecture that combines elements from both Chinese and Vietnamese styles. The main hall features intricate carvings and colorful paintings depicting scenes from Buddhist mythology.
Another highlight of the pagoda is the 5-meter-tall statue of Guanyin, which is plated with gold and adorned with precious gems. It is believed that the statue has miraculous powers, attracting many visitors who come to pray and make offerings.
The temple complex also includes a number of smaller temples dedicated to different Buddhas and Bodhisattvas, such as Sakyamuni Buddha and Amitabha Buddha. Each temple has its own unique design and cultural significance.
One of the most popular areas at Van Hanh Pagoda is the Turtle Lake Garden, where visitors can see hundreds of turtles swimming in a pond. In Vietnamese culture, turtles are considered auspicious animals that bring good luck and longevity.
Finally, Van Hanh Pagoda hosts various social and cultural events throughout the year, including Buddhist festivals and ceremonies. The annual Vesak celebration at the pagoda attracts thousands of pilgrims to pay homage to Buddha’s birth, enlightenment, and death.
3. What makes Van Hanh Pagoda a significant landmark in Ho Chi Minh City?
Van Hanh Pagoda is not only a significant religious landmark but also an important symbol of Vietnamese resilience and perseverance during war times.
During the Vietnam War, Van Hanh Pagoda served as a sanctuary for anti-war protestors as well as victims of the conflict. Its association with prominent Buddhist leaders like Thich Tri Quang also played a significant role in bringing attention to the peace movement in Vietnam.
Today, Van Hanh Pagoda continues to be an active place for religious worship as well as cultural activities in Ho Chi Minh City. Its historically rich architecture and cultural events make it an important destination for tourists seeking a deeper understanding of Vietnamese culture and traditions. It also serves as a reminder of Vietnam’s enduring Buddhist heritage that has shaped its society for centuries.
2. What makes Van Hanh Pagoda stand out among other pagodas in Vietnam?
There are several reasons that make Van Hanh Pagoda stand out among other pagodas in Vietnam:
1) Architecture: Van Hanh Pagoda is known for its unique and beautiful architecture. It combines both traditional Vietnamese style with elements of modernity, creating a visually stunning structure.
2) Historical significance: This pagoda has a long and rich history dating back to the early 20th century. It has been home to many Buddhist leaders, including Thich Nhat Hanh, a renowned Zen master and peace activist.
3) Cultural importance: Van Hanh Pagoda is located in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, making it easily accessible to visitors from all around the world. As a result, it has become not only a religious site but also a cultural hub where people come to learn more about Buddhism and Vietnamese culture.
4) Social impact: The pagoda has been actively involved in social and humanitarian projects, such as providing aid to those affected by natural disasters and supporting disadvantaged communities.
5) Beautiful surroundings: Van Hanh Pagoda is situated on a large plot of land with lush gardens, ponds, and various statues dedicated to Buddha and other deities. The tranquil and serene atmosphere provides visitors with a sense of peace and tranquility.
6) Spiritual significance: As one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Vietnam, Van Hanh Pagoda holds great spiritual significance for many people. It serves as a place for meditation and self-reflection for both locals and tourists alike.
In conclusion, Van Hanh Pagoda stands out among other pagodas in Vietnam due to its unique architecture, historical and cultural importance, social impact, beautiful surroundings, and spiritual significance.
3. How long has Van Hanh Pagoda been around and how has it evolved over time?
Van Hanh Pagoda has been around for nearly 60 years. It was founded in 1964 by Buddhist monk Thich Thien Chieu, who started with a simple bamboo hut as a place for meditation and teaching Buddhism to local villagers.
Over time, the pagoda has become an important religious and cultural center for the Vietnamese Buddhist community in Ho Chi Minh City, and it has also played a role in various social and political movements.
After its initial establishment, Van Hanh Pagoda underwent several expansions and renovations, including the building of a main hall, a monks’ quarters, and other facilities such as a library, conference halls, and a kindergarten.
In 2008, the pagoda experienced significant damage due to a major storm. However, with the support of the local community and donors, it was restored and reopened in 2011.
Today, Van Hanh Pagoda is not only a place for spiritual practice but also well-known for its charitable activities, environmental protection initiatives, and educational programs. It continues to evolve as an important religious institution in Vietnam.
4. Are there any notable figures or events associated with Van Hanh Pagoda?
Yes, Van Hanh Pagoda is associated with several notable figures and events. One of the most prominent figures is Thich Nhat Hanh, a Vietnamese Buddhist monk, peace activist, and teacher who played a key role in the growth and development of Van Hanh Pagoda. He served as the abbot of the pagoda from 1964 to 1966.
Van Hanh Pagoda has also been the site of significant events in Vietnam’s history. During the Vietnam War, it served as a refuge for those seeking shelter from bombings and political persecution. Thich Nhat Hanh organized nonviolent protests at the pagoda, advocating for peace and social change.
In 2005, Van Hanh Pagoda was designated as a historical relic by the Ho Chi Minh City government, recognizing its cultural and spiritual significance in Vietnam. The pagoda continues to be an important place of worship and activism for Buddhists in Vietnam.
5. Can visitors enter and explore the pagoda, or is it reserved for worship only?
In general, visitors are welcome to enter and explore pagodas. However, it is important to be respectful of the sacred space and the people who are there for worship. It is best to follow any posted guidelines or ask staff or locals for proper etiquette before entering.
6. Can you describe some of the architectural features of Van Hanh Pagoda?
Van Hanh Pagoda is a large Buddhist temple located in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. It was originally built in the 19th century but has undergone several renovations and expansions throughout the years. Some of the architectural features that can be seen in Van Hanh Pagoda are:
1. The Main Gate: The pagoda is entered through a majestic main gate known as “Tam Quan”. This gate is decorated with intricate carvings and colorful paintings depicting Buddhist teachings.
2. Bell Tower: As one enters the pagoda, they will notice a tall bell tower on the right side. It is used to announce religious ceremonies and rituals.
3. Main Shrine Hall: The main shrine hall or “Mahavira Hall” is the focal point of the pagoda. It houses statues of Buddha and other important figures in Buddhism such as Bodhisattvas and Arhats.
4. Reclining Buddha Statue: One of the most notable features of Van Hanh Pagoda is the giant reclining Buddha statue, which measures over 10 meters in length and is covered in gold leaf.
5. Drum Tower: On the left side of the main shrine hall stands a drum tower where monks beat wooden drums to call for prayer or mark important events.
6. Lotus Pond: In front of the main shrine hall, there is a peaceful lotus pond surrounded by lush greenery. This area provides a tranquil space for meditation and reflection.
7. Decorative Gates: Throughout Van Hanh Pagoda, there are numerous decorative gates adorned with intricate woodwork and carvings that lead to different halls and buildings within the temple complex.
8. Roof Tiles: The pagoda’s roofs are covered with traditional curved yellow glazed tiles known as “Tuiles du Nord”. These tiles not only provide beauty to the architecture but also offer protection against harsh weather conditions.
9. Various Halls: Other notable architectural features of Van Hanh Pagoda include the Dharma Hall, Monk’s Quarters, and Study Hall. These buildings have distinct designs but are all interconnected to form a cohesive temple complex.
10. Vietnamese Architectural Style: Van Hanh Pagoda blends traditional Vietnamese architectural elements such as curved roofs, lacquered woodwork, and colorful tiled floors with Buddhist decorative features to create a unique design that is characteristic of Buddhist pagodas in Vietnam.
7. Is there a particular time of year that is best to visit Van Hanh Pagoda?
It is best to visit Van Hanh Pagoda during the Vietnamese New Year (Tet) celebrations, which usually occur in January or February. This is when the pagoda is most lively and decorated with colorful lanterns and flowers. Other popular times to visit are during major Buddhist holidays such as Vesak (Buddha’s birthday), Vu Lan (ghost festival), and Lunar New Year. However, the pagoda is open year-round for visitors.
8. Does Van Hanh Pagoda hold any significant religious or cultural importance in Vietnam?
Yes, Van Hanh Pagoda holds significant religious and cultural importance in Vietnam. It is one of the oldest and most revered pagodas in Vietnam, representing the country’s long-standing Buddhist tradition. The pagoda has been a place of worship, meditation, and spiritual guidance for Vietnamese people for centuries. It also serves as an important center for Buddhist learning and education, attracting many students and scholars to study there. Additionally, Van Hanh Pagoda is situated on top of Linh Son Thien Thach Mountain, which is considered a sacred site among Vietnamese Buddhists.
9. Are there any traditional practices or rituals carried out at the pagoda that visitors can witness?
Yes, there are several traditional practices and rituals that visitors can witness at the pagoda. These include:
1. Lighting incense and candles: Visitors can light incense sticks and candles as offerings to the Buddha or other deities.
2. Prostrating: Some visitors may choose to prostrate as a form of respect and devotion to the Buddha.
3. Chanting: Monks and nuns often chant sutras or mantras in Sanskrit or Pali as part of their daily practice, and visitors can witness this ritual at certain times of the day.
4. Alms-giving: Visitors may see monks and nuns walking through the pagoda grounds with alms bowls, collecting donations of food from devotees.
5. Offering flowers: A common tradition is for visitors to offer lotus flowers, often seen as a symbol of purity, at the altars of Buddhas or bodhisattvas.
6. Bell-ringing: It is believed that ringing a bell during a visit to a pagoda brings good luck, so visitors may participate in this tradition by ringing a bell before entering the main prayer hall.
7. Water-pouring ceremony: As a sign of paying respects to ancestors, it is common for visitors to pour water over ancestor tablets or statues representing deceased loved ones.
8. Meditation: Some pagodas offer meditation classes or retreats for visitors who wish to learn more about this spiritual practice.
9. Offering donations: Many pagodas rely on donations from devotees to maintain their operations and upkeep, so it is customary for visitors to make offerings as an act of generosity and good karma.
10. Can you recommend any nearby landmarks or sights that complement a visit to Van Hanh Pagoda?
Yes, here are some nearby landmarks and sights that you may want to visit during your visit to Van Hanh Pagoda:
1. Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica – This stunning cathedral is located less than 4km away from Van Hanh Pagoda. It is a popular spot for tourists to admire the beautiful French Gothic architecture and take photos.
2. Independence Palace – Located about 3km away from the pagoda, this historic palace was once the home and workplace of the President of South Vietnam during the Vietnam War.
3. War Remnants Museum – This museum, also located about 3km away from Van Hanh Pagoda, covers the brutal history of the Vietnam War and its devastating effects on Vietnamese civilians.
4. Ben Thanh Market – This bustling market is just a 10-minute drive from the pagoda. Here, you can find a variety of local goods, including clothing, food, souvenirs, and more.
5. Ho Chi Minh City Hall – The City Hall is an impressive building with French colonial architecture located about 4km away from Van Hanh Pagoda. You can take a stroll around the building and take some photos.
6. Jade Emperor Pagoda – Located less than 2km away from Van Hanh Pagoda, this colorful Taoist pagoda is another popular religious site in Ho Chi Minh City.
7. Pham Ngu Lao Street – This vibrant street is known for its backpacker culture and nightlife scene. It’s only a short distance from Van Hanh Pagoda and worth checking out for some street food or drinks.
8. Bitexco Financial Tower – For a great view of the city skyline, head to Bitexco Financial Tower which stands at over 260 meters tall and is just under 6km away from Van Hanh Pagoda.
9. Ho Chi Minh Fine Arts Museum – If you’re interested in art, this museum located about 4km away from Van Hanh Pagoda houses a collection of Vietnamese and international art.
10. Ho Chi Minh Square – This open space is situated right in front of the City Hall and hosts events and festivals throughout the year. It’s a nice spot to take a stroll or people-watch.
11. Is photography allowed inside the pagoda grounds?
Yes, photography is allowed inside the pagoda grounds. However, visitors are advised to ask for permission before taking photos of any monks or sacred objects.
12. What are some of the must-see attractions within Van Hanh Pagoda for tourists?
1. The main temple: The main worship hall of Van Hanh Pagoda is a stunning structure with elaborate decorations and intricate carvings.2. Bodhi tree: The pagoda is home to a sacred Bodhi tree, believed to be grown from a cutting of the original Bodhi tree in India, under which the Buddha attained enlightenment.
3. Quan Am (Goddess of Mercy) statue: The 19-meter tall statue of Quan Am, also known as Avalokitesvara, is a popular attraction within the pagoda. This towering white statue is adorned with colorful paintings and surrounded by red lanterns.
4. Giant dragon koi pond: One of the most unique features of Van Hanh Pagoda is its giant dragon koi pond. This large pond is home to hundreds of colorful koi fish and provides a peaceful spot for visitors to relax and take in the surroundings.
5. Bell tower: A seven-story bell tower stands at the entrance of the pagoda and offers visitors the opportunity to ring it for good luck.
6. Avalokitesvara shrine: Within the main temple, there is a shrine dedicated to Avalokitesvara with an intricately carved statue and offerings placed by devotees.
7. Meditation rooms: Visitors can also participate in meditation sessions at Van Hanh Pagoda in one of their serene meditation rooms.
8. Gardens: The pagoda grounds are beautifully landscaped with lush gardens, colorful flowers, and small shrines tucked away throughout.
9. Statue garden: In addition to the beautiful gardens, there are also numerous statues depicting scenes from Buddhist teachings scattered around the pagoda grounds.
10. Bat Nha Zen Monastery: Located on the same premises as Van Hanh Pagoda, Bat Nha Zen Monastery offers visitors a chance to experience traditional Vietnamese Zen practices such as chanting and meditation.
11. Vegetarian restaurant: Visitors can enjoy delicious vegetarian meals at the pagoda’s on-site restaurant, which offers a variety of dishes made from fresh and healthy ingredients.
12. Gift shops: There are several gift shops within Van Hanh Pagoda where visitors can purchase traditional Buddhist items such as incense, prayer beads, and books.
13. Has the pagoda faced any challenges or obstacles throughout its history?
Yes, the pagoda has faced several challenges and obstacles throughout its history. Some of the major ones include natural disasters like earthquakes and floods, attacks by invaders, damage from wars, and deterioration due to age. In recent years, pollution and urbanization have also posed a threat to the preservation of the pagoda. Additionally, financial constraints and political instability in certain periods have also made it difficult to maintain and restore the pagoda. Despite these challenges, dedicated efforts have been made to protect and preserve this ancient structure.
14. Are there any legends or myths associated with Van Hanh Pagoda?
Yes, there is a well-known legend associated with Van Hanh Pagoda. According to the legend, the original name of the pagoda was “Truc Lam Hoa Lu Quan Tich Thien Tu”, which translates to “Bamboo Forest Amidst the Heavenly Pure Sangha”. It is said that in the 15th century, a monk named Nguyen Minh Khong attained enlightenment here and was given the name “Van Hanh”, meaning “eternal joy” by Emperor Le Hien Ton.There is also a myth surrounding the construction of the pagoda. It is said that when Emperor Ly Nam De was in power, he had a dream about a white crane flying towards a mountain. He believed this to be an auspicious sign and ordered his people to build a pagoda at that exact spot. The pagoda being built at Van Hanh mountain was seen as a fulfillment of this divine prophecy by many.
Another local legend tells the story of four rivers that once flowed through Tam Dao Mountain. The rivers were believed to represent four different types of food – rice, vegetable, meat and fish – and were guarded by four dragons sent by heaven. One day, one of the dragons went missing, causing severe drought and famine in the region. A group of monks from Van Hanh Pagoda prayed for rain and were able to find and return the missing dragon to its rightful place, bringing prosperity back to Tam Dao Mountain.
These legends and myths add to the cultural significance and spiritual atmosphere of Van Hanh Pagoda, making it a popular destination for tourists and devotees alike.
15. How does Buddhism influence daily life and traditions at the pagoda and in Vietnam as a whole?
Buddhism has a significant influence on daily life and traditions at the pagoda and in Vietnam as a whole. Here are some examples:
1. Practice of mindfulness: Buddhism emphasizes living in the present moment and being mindful of one’s thoughts, actions, and surroundings. This practice is integrated into daily life at the pagoda through meditation and mindfulness exercises. In Vietnam, the concept of “mindfulness” has also become popular in modern society, with many people incorporating it into their daily lives.
2. Devotion to Buddha: Buddhism teaches followers to show reverence and respect towards Buddha as an enlightened being. At the pagoda, this is shown through various rituals such as offering food, flowers, incense, and prayers to Buddha statues. In Vietnam, people often have small altars or shrines dedicated to Buddha in their homes where they also offer food and incense.
3. Rituals and ceremonies: Buddhism has many rituals and ceremonies that are performed at the pagoda for various occasions such as births, deaths, marriages, and important milestones in one’s life. These practices are deeply ingrained in Vietnamese culture and are observed by both Buddhists and non-Buddhists.
4. Moral values: Buddhism promotes moral values such as compassion, kindness, tolerance, and non-violence. These principles are reflected in Vietnamese society where people often prioritize harmony over confrontation.
5. Vegetarianism: Many followers of Buddhism adhere to a vegetarian diet as a way to practice compassion towards all living beings. This tradition is observed at pagodas where vegetarian meals are served to visitors during special occasions or retreats. In Vietnam, there is a strong tradition of vegetarian cuisine that originated from Buddhist teachings.
6. Festivals: Buddhist festivals play a significant role in Vietnamese culture with many major festivals celebrated throughout the year such as Vesak (Buddha’s birthday), Vu Lan (Filial Piety Day), Quan Am (Goddess of Mercy). These festivals often involve colorful ceremonies and rituals at the pagoda and are also observed by the general population.
In conclusion, Buddhism has had a profound impact on Vietnamese culture, shaping daily life and traditions at the pagoda and in society as a whole. Its teachings have become deeply ingrained in the hearts and minds of the people, promoting harmony, compassion, and mindfulness in daily life.
16. Can non-Buddhist visitors still appreciate and understand the significance of Van Hanh Pagoda?
Yes, non-Buddhist visitors can still appreciate and understand the significance of Van Hanh Pagoda. The pagoda has a rich history and architectural design that is worth exploring for anyone interested in cultural and religious heritage. Visitors can also learn more about the teachings and practices of Buddhism through the various sculptures, inscriptions, and paintings found within the pagoda. Additionally, Van Hanh Pagoda welcomes visitors from all backgrounds to participate in meditation sessions or to simply admire its serene atmosphere.
17. What are some common misconceptions about Vietnamese culture and religion that this visit may dispel?
1. All Vietnamese people are Buddhist: While Buddhism is the most widely practiced religion in Vietnam, there are also significant populations of Catholics, followers of indigenous religions, and non-religious individuals in the country.
2. Vietnamese culture is mainly influenced by China: While China has had a significant influence on Vietnam’s language, food, and some aspects of its culture, there are also strong influences from India, Southeast Asia, and France.
3. Vietnamese women are submissive and oppressed: This stereotype stems from traditional gender roles in Vietnam, but it ignores the many strong female figures in Vietnamese history and modern society.
4. Vietnamese people only eat pho: While pho is a popular dish in Vietnam, the country has a diverse cuisine with a variety of dishes featuring different ingredients and cooking styles.
5. The traditional ao dai dress is the national dress for all occasions: While the ao dai is considered a symbol of Vietnamese culture, it is typically only worn for special occasions such as weddings or ceremonies, while Western-style clothing is more common for everyday wear.
6. Traditional Vietnamese art forms like water puppetry are dying out: Despite modernization, many traditional art forms in Vietnam continue to thrive and are still appreciated by locals and tourists alike.
7. All Vietnamese families live in multi-generational households: While it’s common for extended family members to live together in one household, many young people now choose to move out and establish their own homes.
8. The Tet holiday (Lunar New Year) is like Christmas: While both holidays have elements of family gatherings and gift-giving, Tet celebrations also include unique traditions such as ancestor worship and lucky money.
9. All Vietnamese people practice ancestor worship: Ancestor worship is an important aspect of traditional beliefs for many Vietnamese families but not all observe this practice.
10. Monks are disconnected from society: Many monks in Vietnam actively engage with their communities through social work and charity, dispelling the idea that they are isolated from society.
11. Buddhism is only a religion in Vietnam: Buddhism in Vietnam has been heavily influenced by indigenous folk beliefs and practices, creating a unique blend of spiritual traditions that go beyond strict religious boundaries.
12. Vietnamese people all have the same last name “Nguyen”: While Nguyen is the most common surname in Vietnam, there are many other surnames such as Tran, Le, and Pham.
13. Vietnamese families do not value education or higher learning: Education has always been highly valued in Vietnamese culture, with many young people striving for academic success and pursuing higher degrees.
14. All traditional Vietnamese weddings follow the same customs and etiquette: Traditional weddings can vary greatly depending on region and family traditions, allowing for creativity and personalization.
15. Vietnamese people are not open or friendly to outsiders: Despite differences in language and culture, many Vietnamese people are known for their hospitality and welcoming nature towards foreigners.
16. Western influence has completely erased traditional values in Vietnam: While modernization has certainly brought changes to Vietnamese society, traditional values such as respect for elders and communal spirit still hold strong importance among many communities.
17. Religion is not important to the younger generation in Vietnam: While some young people may have become less religious with Western influence, there are also many young individuals who actively practice their faith and engage in spiritual activities.
18. If visitors could only see one thing at Van Hanh Pagoda, what would you recommend they not miss?
I would recommend not missing the main hall of Van Hanh Pagoda, which houses a massive statue of Buddha and beautifully adorned with intricate carvings and decorations. It is a breathtaking sight that captures the essence of Buddhist teachings and traditions.
19. How does modern life integrate with traditional practices at the pagoda?
Modern life integrates with traditional practices at the pagoda in various ways:
1. Technology: Many pagodas now have modern amenities such as electricity, internet access, and even fundraising through social media platforms.
2. Cultural events and ceremonies: Pagodas often host traditional festivals and cultural events that incorporate modern elements, such as music performances or dance shows.
3. Tourist attractions: As pagodas are popular tourist attractions in many countries, they have adapted to cater to visitors by providing guided tours, gift shops, and information centers.
4. Donations and fundraising: While traditional practices of making offerings and donations at the pagoda still exist, modern methods such as online donations or charity drives have also been introduced.
5. Architecture: Some modern pagodas are designed with a blend of traditional aesthetics and contemporary architecture, incorporating elements like glass windows or modern artwork.
6. Environmental conservation: Pagodas often promote environmental conservation through campaigns and initiatives, such as using eco-friendly materials in construction or organizing clean-up drives in the surrounding areas.
7. Education: Many pagodas offer classes on Buddhism as well as other subjects like art, language, or cooking to help preserve traditional knowledge for future generations.
8. Community outreach: Pagodas often play an active role in the local community by providing support to those in need through charity work or offering services like medical care or education to marginalized groups.
Overall, while traditional practices remain at the core of pagoda life, modern influences have helped these sacred places evolve and continue to be relevant in contemporary society.
20. Are there any annual festivals or celebrations held at Van Hanh Pagoda that attract large crowds?
Yes, there are several annual festivals and celebrations held at Van Hanh Pagoda that attract large crowds. These include the Vesak (Buddha’s Birthday) celebration, which is held on the 15th day of the fourth lunar month and attracts thousands of Buddhists from all over the country. Other festivals include the Vu Lan (Ghost Festival) celebration, which honors ancestors and is held on the 15th day of the seventh lunar month, as well as other celebrations such as Tet (Lunar New Year) and Mid-Autumn Festival. These events usually feature traditional music, dance performances, parades, and religious ceremonies.