A highlight of the festival is the “Ghe Ngo” (Khmer Boat) race, which has brought together 62 teams from regional cities and provinces such as Bac Lieu, Ca Mau, Hau Giang and Kien Giang.

The Khmer festival is also held in the Mekong Delta city of Can Tho’s O Mon district for the first time from November 1-3.

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“Ghe Ngo” (Khmer Boat) racers at a Ok Om Bok Festival 
Chairman of the O Mon district People’s Committee Le Viet Si said that it is the first time that the district has organized the festival. A number of activities will be held during the event such as traditional music performances of Khmer people, a fashion show on traditional costumes and folk games.

The Ok Om Bok festival is one of the three main festivals along with Sene Dolta and Chol Chnam Thmay that Khmer people celebrate every year. It takes place under the full moon in the 10th lunar month annually, when it changes from the rainy season to the dry season, the growing season to the harvest season.

The Khmer believe the moon is a God who controls the weather and crops throughout the year. The Ok Om Bok Festival of each village takes place in the garden of a local pagoda, while the whole province’s Ok Om Bok Festival takes place at Ba Om Pond.

On this occasion, Khmer people provide offerings of farm produce to thank the God’s blessing for favorable weather and their bountiful harvest.

Source: VNA