1. What are some popular festivals and events in Lang Son, Vietnam?
Some popular festivals and events in Lang Son, Vietnam include:1. Lang Son Cherry Blossom Festival: This festival takes place in March and celebrates the blooming of cherry blossom trees in the province.
2. Lang Son Tourism Culture Week: Held in October, this festival showcases the cultural heritage, traditional cuisine, and tourist attractions of Lang Son.
3. Nung Ethnic Group Traditional Festival: This festival, held every year on the 1st day of the 2nd lunar month, features traditional ethnic music performances, dances, and ceremonies of the Nung people.
4. Cham Temple Festival: Celebrated every year in April at Chi Lang Nam Commune, this festival honors Saint Quan The Am (Bodhisattva) with colorful parades and rituals.
5. Bac Son Valley Mountain Climbing Festival: This festival is organized annually in June to promote eco-tourism and sports activities in Bac Son Valley.
6. Ky Lua Market Fair: Held on the 14th and 15th day of the first lunar month, this fair is a traditional gathering for locals to buy and sell goods as well as enjoy food and entertainment.
7. Dai Co Dang Cave Festival: Taking place from May to September every year, this event features cultural performances inside one of the largest caves in Southeast Asia – Dai Co Dang Cave.
2. How does the local community celebrate Tet, the Lunar New Year, in Lang Son?
The local community in Lang Son celebrates Tet with several traditional customs and activities, such as:
1. Preparing for Tet: weeks before Tet, people clean their houses, decorate them with colorful flowers and plants such as peach blossoms and kumquat trees, and buy new clothes to wear on the holiday.
2. Visiting relatives and friends: during Tet, it is common for people to visit their extended family members and friends, bringing gifts and offering well-wishes for the new year.
3. Making traditional dishes: special dishes are prepared specifically for Tet, including banh chung (sticky rice cake), mut (candied fruits), gio cha (Vietnamese sausage), and thit kho (braised pork). Families typically gather together to make these dishes.
4. Worshiping ancestors: ancestor worship is an important part of Vietnamese culture, especially during Tet. Families often visit their ancestors’ graves to clean them and offer prayers, incense, and offerings of food.
5. Lion dance performances: lion dances are a popular tradition during Tet in Lang Son. Troupes of dancers dressed in colorful lion costumes perform acrobatic moves to the beat of drums and gongs.
6. Fireworks display: on the first night of Tet, there is usually a big fireworks display to celebrate the new year.
7. Gifting lucky money: it is customary for elders to give children lucky money in red envelopes as a symbol of good luck for the new year.
8. Watching dragon boat races: dragon boat racing is a traditional activity during Tet in Lang Son. Teams race their elaborately decorated boats along the river while spectators cheer them on.
9. Street festivals: during Tet, there are often street festivals with music performances, games, and food vendors selling traditional snacks and dishes.
10. Praying for good luck at temples or pagodas: many people visit temples and pagodas during Tet to pray for good luck and prosperity in the upcoming year.
3. Are there any traditional cultural performances or shows that take place during festivals in Lang Son?
Yes, there are several traditional cultural performances and shows that take place during festivals in Lang Son. Some of the most popular include:
1. Lion Dance – The lion dance is a traditional performance that is commonly seen during festivals in Lang Son. It involves two performers who wear a lion costume and perform acrobatic moves to the sound of drums and cymbals.
2. Water Puppet Show – This is a unique form of traditional Vietnamese puppetry that originated in the Red River Delta region, including Lang Son. During festivals, water puppet shows are often performed on the water or in a large pool using puppets controlled by skilled puppeteers.
3. Quan Ho Folk Songs – Quan Ho is a traditional folk song genre that originated in Bac Ninh province, but is also popular in Lang Son. During festivals, local singers will often perform these songs accompanied by traditional musical instruments.
4. Traditional Dance Performances – Various forms of traditional dances can be seen during festivals in Lang Son, such as the Tay people’s Tham coi dance or the San Chay people’s Tru singing and dancing.
5. Pao Dung Singing – Pao Dung is a unique form of singing originated from Tuyen Quang province but can also be found in Lang Son. During festivals, Pao Dung singers will perform songs while playing special wooden drums and gongs.
6.Gong performances – Ethnic minorities in Lang Son such as Tay, Nung or Dao have their own gong ensembles which they use during festivals for various ceremonies and performances.
In addition to these performances, other traditional activities such as dragon boat races, martial arts demonstrations, and bamboo pole dancing may also be seen during festivals in Lang Son.
4. What are some must-try dishes at a festival or event in Lang Son?
– “Lang Son Roasted Pork” – a flavorful dish made by grilling marinated pork over charcoal, usually served with rice noodles and dipping sauces.– “Pumpkin Stuffed with Sticky Rice” – a steamed pumpkin filled with sticky rice mixed with meat and herbs, typically served as a dessert.
– “Buffalo Meat Skewers” – slices of buffalo meat grilled on skewers and served with various spices and herbs for dipping.
– “Five-colored Sticky Rice” – a colorful dish made by mixing different types of naturally colored sticky rice, typically served during festivals or celebrations.
– “Fried Bees in Soy Sauce” – fried bees coated in soy sauce and chili peppers, a unique and popular dish in the region.
– “Bamboo-Tube Rice” – cooked rice stuffed inside bamboo tubes and roasted over hot coals, giving the rice a smoky flavor.
5. How do tourists participate in local events and festivals in Lang Son?
Tourists can participate in local events and festivals in Lang Son in the following ways:
1. Visit during specific festivals: Lang Son hosts a variety of festivals throughout the year, such as the Tam Giac Mach (Triangle Ochid) Festival in March, the Hung Vuong Temple Festival in April, and the Doan Ngo Festival in June. Tourists can plan their trip to coincide with these festivals and join in the celebrations.
2. Attend cultural performances: During festivals, there are often traditional cultural performances such as lion dances, drum shows, and folk music performances. These are open for tourists to watch and enjoy.
3. Try local dishes at food stalls: Festivals are a great opportunity to try out local specialties that may not be available at other times of the year. Food stalls set up during festivals offer a variety of delicious dishes for tourists to try.
4. Participate in traditional games and activities: Many festivals include traditional games and activities such as tug of war, dragon boat racing, or rice pounding contests. Tourists can join in these fun activities and get a taste of traditional Vietnamese culture.
5. Shop at local markets: During festivals, there are often large open-air markets selling various goods such as handicrafts, clothes, and souvenirs. Tourists can shop at these markets to support local businesses and purchase unique items.
6. Volunteer at community events: Some festivals involve community service activities such as cleaning up public spaces or organizing charity events. Tourists can join these activities to give back to the community while experiencing local customs.
7. Attend workshops or cultural classes: Some festivals may offer workshops or classes where tourists can learn traditional crafts or participate in cultural practices such as making rice cakes or practicing calligraphy.
8. Join guided tours: Many tour companies offer guided tours specifically focused on participating in local events and festivals in Lang Son. These tours provide an immersive experience with knowledgeable guides who can explain the significance of each event.
6. What is the significance of the Buffalo Fighting Festival in Lang Son?
The Buffalo Fighting Festival in Lang Son is a traditional event that has been held for centuries in the province. It is considered a significant cultural and religious festival, and it is believed to bring luck, prosperity, and a good harvest to the participating villages.
Many locals also see the festival as a way to honor and pay homage to their ancestors and community. The buffalo is seen as a symbol of strength, power, and hard work in Vietnamese culture. Thus, by organizing this festival, villagers show their respect and gratitude towards this animal.
Moreover, the Buffalo Fighting Festival promotes camaraderie and unity among the villagers. It provides an opportunity for people from different villages to come together, strengthen bonds, and celebrate their shared traditions.
In addition to its cultural significance, the festival also has economic importance for the local community. The event attracts many tourists from both within Vietnam and abroad, bringing in revenue for businesses such as food vendors and souvenir sellers.
Overall, the Buffalo Fighting Festival plays a vital role in preserving the cultural heritage of Lang Son while also promoting tourism and boosting the local economy.
7. Are there any religious festivals celebrated by different ethnic groups in Lang Son?
Yes, there are several religious festivals celebrated by different ethnic groups in Lang Son. Some examples include:
1. The Tay people celebrate the “Cay Neu” festival, which is a traditional New Year celebration that combines elements of Buddhism and animism. During this festival, a tall bamboo pole is set up in front of each household to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck for the upcoming year.
2. The Nung people celebrate the “Rice During Blossom” festival, which is a celebration of the start of the spring planting season. This festival involves offerings to ancestors and prayers for a bountiful harvest.
3. The San Diu people have a unique “Volcanic Firecracker Festival” where they light long strings of firecrackers placed in between rice straw bundles near their homes as an offering to their ancestors and deities.
4. The Dao people celebrate the “Ro Ruc” festival to honor their ancestors and ask for blessings of wealth and prosperity.
5. The Kinh (ethnic Vietnamese) population celebrates various Buddhist festivals such as Buddha’s birthday (also known as Vesak) and Vu Lan (Filial Piety) festival, which honors parents and ancestors.
8. Can you tell us about the famous Dong Dang Market Fair held annually in Lang Son?
The Dong Dang Market Fair is a famous cultural and economic event held annually in Lang Son province, Vietnam. It dates back to the 16th century when traders from the neighboring countries of China and Vietnam would gather at the border town of Dong Dang to exchange goods.
The fair usually takes place for about 10 days in late August or early September, attracting thousands of visitors from both sides of the border. The market is located on a large field near the border gate between Vietnam and China, creating a bustling atmosphere filled with colorful stalls and busy traders.
The fair provides an opportunity for locals, particularly ethnic minorities living in mountainous areas, to sell their agricultural products such as fruits, vegetables, rice, livestock, and handmade crafts. Additionally, there are also various cultural activities including folk performances, traditional games, and food contests showcasing the rich heritage of both countries.
One of the main highlights of the fair is the horse race competition where skilled riders from different ethnic groups compete in various categories. Traditional costumes and music are also an integral part of this unique event.
Besides being a major trading hub for both Vietnamese and Chinese products, the Dong Dang Market Fair serves as a platform for cultural exchanges and promotes friendly relations between the two nations. It has become a symbol of unity and cooperation among people living along the border.
Overall, the Dong Dang Market Fair is not only an important economic event but also a beautiful celebration of cultural diversity in Lang Son province.
9. How do locals prepare for and celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival in Lang Son?
The Mid-Autumn Festival, also known as the Moon Festival, is a very important and widely celebrated holiday in Lang Son. It typically falls on the 15th day of the eighth lunar month, and is a time for families to gather together and celebrate the harvest season.
Before the festival, locals will start preparing by buying fresh fruits such as pomelos, apples, and persimmons that are traditionally eaten during this time. They will also buy mooncakes which are a staple food during the festival. These pastries come in various flavors and are often shared with friends and family.
In addition to food preparations, households will also clean and decorate their homes with colorful lanterns, paper cutouts, and other traditional decorations. Children also have a part in preparing for the festival by making lanterns or crafting their own paper dragon or lion masks to wear during parades.
On the day of the festival, families will gather for a big reunion dinner. They will offer sacrifices to their ancestors and make wishes under the full moon. After dinner, many people will enjoy watching lantern displays and performances of dragon dances or lion dances in public spaces.
One unique tradition in Lang Son is making “Doe cakes” (also known as “Pomegranate cakes”). These cakes are made from glutinous rice stuffed with ground mung beans or lotus seeds and shaped like pomegranates. Families will hang these cakes outside their homes as offerings to Hoa Ban Tree gods for good luck and prosperity.
The Mid-Autumn Festival is an occasion for people to express gratitude towards kinship ties, wishing each other good luck and happiness. It is a lively celebration that reflects both cultural traditions and modern trends.
10. Are there any music or dance performances at events/festivals that showcase the traditional culture of Lang Son?
Yes, there are several performances that showcase the traditional culture of Lang Son during events and festivals. These include:
– Lion and dragon dances: These are popular performances in Chinese-influenced festivals such as Lunar New Year celebrations and Mid-Autumn Festival. The colorful lion and dragon dance is accompanied by loud drums and cymbals and is believed to ward off evil spirits.
– Xoe dance: This is a traditional dance form of the Tay ethnic group that is often performed during harvest celebrations and weddings. It involves intricate hand gestures and footwork accompanied by traditional music.
– Then singing: This is a traditional folk singing style of the Tay ethnic group that is often performed during religious ceremonies or festivals. The singers, known as “Then masters,” sing ancient songs while playing a musical instrument called the lang then.
– Quan ho singing: This is a traditional form of folk singing originating from Bac Ninh province but also popular in Lang Son. During festivals, groups of male and female singers perform duets in lyrical melodies.
– Traditional instrumental performances: These include performances by artists playing traditional instruments such as the dan bau (monochord zither), dan nhi (two-string fiddle), and dan tranh (16-string zither). They often accompany dancing or vocal performances at festivals.
11. Do you recommend any specific time of year to visit Lang Son for its festivals and events? Why?
The best time to visit Lang Son for its festivals and events would be during the Vietnamese Lunar New Year, also known as Tet. This usually falls in late January or early February. During this time, the province comes alive with colorful celebrations, traditional dragon and lion dances, and lively street fairs. Additionally, many unique festivals and events take place during this time, such as the Chua Huong Festival at Huong Pagoda, Thanh Liet Temple Festival, and Tam Thanh Pagoda Festival. Visitors can experience the rich cultural heritage of Lang Son and immerse themselves in its vibrant atmosphere during this festive season.
12. Is there a particular event/festival that attracts a large number of tourists to Lang Son every year?
Yes, the Ban Gioc Waterfall Festival is a major event that attracts a large number of tourists to Lang Son every year. This festival takes place in the month of October and celebrates the beauty and cultural significance of Ban Gioc waterfall. It includes various activities such as a boat race, traditional music performances, and local food fairs. The festival also showcases the unique customs and traditions of different ethnic groups in Lang Son province.
13. Can you describe what happens during the Ph????c Th??nh festival, one of the biggest Buddhist festivals in Lang Son?
The Ph?c Thành festival is a religious and cultural event that takes place annually at the Ph?c Th?nh temple in Lang Son. It usually falls on the 15th day of the first lunar month and lasts for about five days.
The festival draws thousands of Buddhist pilgrims, locals, and tourists from all over Vietnam to come and pay their respects to Buddha and pray for luck, happiness, and good health.
The preparation for the festival starts a few days prior, with monks cleaning and decorating the temple complex with colorful flags, lanterns, flowers, and other ornaments. Food stalls are also set up around the temple to provide offerings for worshippers.
On the first day of the festival, a grand procession is held in which a large statue of Buddha is carried around the temple grounds. This is followed by traditional performances such as lion dances, drumming, and incense rituals throughout the day.
During the remaining days of the festival, visitors can join in various activities such as lighting candles or releasing live fish into the nearby river as acts of merit-making. There are also ceremonies where people gather to chant prayers led by monks.
One of the highlights of this festival is the water puppet show performed on a small pond within the temple complex. This traditional art form depicts scenes from Buddhist legends and local folklore.
The final night of Ph?c Thành festival ends with a floating lantern ceremony where thousands of lanterns are lit and released onto the river as a symbol of peace and prosperity for loved ones who have passed away.
Overall, Ph?c Thành festival offers a unique opportunity to experience Vietnamese Buddhism and immerse oneself in its rich traditions and customs.
14. Are there any sports competitions or games organized during local events and festivals in Lang Son?
Yes, there are various sports competitions and games organized during local events and festivals in Lang Son. Some popular ones include dragon boat races, traditional wrestling, tug of war, and bamboo stick pushing. These activities not only showcase the athletic prowess of the locals but also add an element of excitement and entertainment to the festivities.
15. Can you tell us about the experience attending the Rain Praying Ceremony at Tam Thanh Pagoda during the 3rd lunar month festival?
Attending the Rain Praying Ceremony at Tam Thanh Pagoda during the 3rd lunar month festival is a unique and sacred experience. The ceremony takes place on the main day of the festival, which usually falls on the 15th day of the third month in the lunar calendar.
During this ceremony, people gather at the pagoda to pray for rain, as well as good health and fortune. The belief is that if it rains on this day, it will bring an abundant harvest and prosperity for the rest of the year.
The atmosphere at Tam Thanh Pagoda during this time is very festive and lively. Many people come dressed in traditional Vietnamese ao dai and carry offerings such as fruits, flowers, incense, and candles to present to Buddha and deities.
The ceremony begins with chanting and prayers by Buddhist monks. Offerings are then made to Buddha and deities by attendees. Afterward, there is a water pouring ritual where water is poured over a statue of Buddha to symbolize cleansing and purification.
The highlight of the Rain Praying Ceremony is when participants join in a procession around the pagoda carrying a large circular wooden platform decorated with offerings. This procession represents inviting the deities to bless the land with rain.
As night falls, there are performances of traditional Vietnamese music and dance, along with food stalls selling local delicacies.
Overall, attending this ceremony at Tam Thanh Pagoda is a meaningful cultural experience that allows one to witness an important aspect of Vietnamese traditions and beliefs surrounding agriculture and nature.
16. Do different regions/cities within Lang Song have their own unique festivals and traditions?
Yes, different regions and cities within Lang Song have their own unique festivals and traditions. For example, in the northern region of Lang Song, there is a popular festival called the “Cao Bang Fireworks Festival,” where locals gather to watch traditional fireworks displays. In the southern region, there is a festival called “Chau Doc Water Festival,” which celebrates the Mekong River and its importance to the area’s agriculture and culture. Other regions may have their own harvest festivals or cultural events specific to their local traditions and customs.
17. What kind of crafts or hand-made goods can be found at local fairs and markets during events and festivals?
There are usually a wide variety of crafts and hand-made goods that can be found at local fairs and markets during events and festivals. Some examples include:
1. Jewelry: Hand-crafted necklaces, bracelets, earrings, rings, and other types of accessories are commonly found at fairs and markets.
2. Clothing: Local artisans often sell unique clothing items such as hand-knitted scarves, crocheted hats, or hand-painted t-shirts.
3. Home decor: Items such as handmade pottery, wooden carvings, and paintings can add a personal touch to any home.
4. Arts and crafts: Fairs and markets are great places to find original paintings, drawings, sculptures, and other types of artwork made by local artists.
5. Handmade toys: There may be vendors selling homemade stuffed animals, dolls, puzzles, or wooden toys for children.
6. Beauty products: Natural soaps, lotions, candles, and other self-care products made from locally sourced ingredients can often be found at these events.
7. Food items: Homemade jams, pickles, baked goods, honey, and other preserves are popular items at local fairs and food markets.
8. Leather goods: Many artisans specialize in creating high-quality leather goods such as belts, wallets, bags, and shoes by hand.
9. Potpourri: Dried flowers or herbs mixed with aromatic oils make great gifts or additions to any home’s decor.
10. Ceramics/pottery: Handmade plates, bowls mugs are common finds at fairs that feature pottery vendors.
18. Are there any street parades or processions that take place during special celebrations like Independence Day or Liberation Day?
Yes, there are often street parades and processions during Independence Day or Liberation Day celebrations. These may include marching bands, floats representing different aspects of the country’s history or culture, and people wearing traditional clothing. In some countries, military parades may also be held as part of these celebrations. These events are typically organized by the government or local communities to commemorate important historical events and to show national pride.
19. Is it possible for visitors to participate in traditional activities or rituals at events and festivals in Lang Son?
Yes, it is possible for visitors to participate in traditional activities or rituals at events and festivals in Lang Son. These events may include traditional dances, games, ceremonies, and rituals that are open for participation by visitors. However, it is important to show respect for the local culture and follow any guidelines or traditions set by the organizers or locals.
20. What are some of the most popular souvenirs or gifts to buy at local events and festivals in Lang Son?
1. Traditional handwoven textiles and clothing: Lang Son is known for its skilled weavers who create beautiful fabrics using traditional techniques.
2. Handicrafts made from bamboo and rattan: These are popular souvenirs that showcase the local craftsmanship of Lang Son.
3. Spices and dried goods: The province is famous for its spices such as cardamom, cinnamon, and star anise, which are perfect for cooking or as gifts.
4. Tea: Lang Son is famous for its tea production, particularly green tea. Buying some high-quality tea leaves or tea sets makes for a great souvenir.
5. Traditional musical instruments: Visitors can find a variety of traditional instruments like the dan moi (jew’s harp), khen (bamboo pipe instrument), and t’rum (two-stringed instrument) at local events and festivals.
6. Local fruits and vegetables: Fresh produce from Lang Son’s fertile land is always a popular choice for gifts or souvenirs.
7. Handmade ceramics: Pottery making has a long history in Lang Son, and visitors can find beautifully crafted vases, bowls, plates, and other items at local markets and festivals.
8. Wooden carvings: Woodworking is another traditional craft in Lang Son, where intricate patterns are carved into wood to create decorative items like boxes, jewelry, and furniture.
9. Local wines: Lang Son has a thriving wine industry with many different types available like fermented rice wine or grape wine infused with medicinal herbs.
10. Traditional medicinal herbs: For those interested in alternative medicine, buying local herbs used in traditional remedies can be a unique gift to bring back home from Lang Son.