The event is a distinctive cultural and spiritual activity, attracting a large number of local residents and visitors.
Tru Ninh village boat racing festival is a long-standing traditional activity closely associated with the formation and development of this land rich in cultural heritage. According to village elders, the festival not only is a folk performance, but also carries profound spiritual significance, reminding participants of their roots.
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The festival is held annually on the second day of the Lunar New Year. |
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This year’s festival features four racing teams, including both male and female athletes. |
In the past, Tru Ninh village was originally a small fishing hamlet along the Lach Truong River. The village is home to Nghe Van Vot Temple, which worships Ba Chua Vot, credited with teaching local people the craft of weaving boats. After a period of interruption due to historical upheavals, the festival was restored in 1990 and has been organized annually on the morning of the second day of the Lunar New Year since 2002.
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Despite unfavorable weather, the event attracted a large number of spectators. |
This year’s festival brings together four racing teams, comprising both male and female athletes. Each racing boat consists of seven members, including one captain and six rowers. The teams compete in three laps around Dinh Lake to determine the first and second-place winners amidst the resounding festival drums and enthusiastic cheers from spectators.
Although light rain fell in the morning, from early hours the roads leading to Tru Ninh village relic site were already crowded with people. The powerful strokes and determined, united spirit of the teams created a dramatic and captivating chase across the lake’s surface.
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Through the races, people pray for favorable weather, bumper crops, and a prosperous, happy New Year. |
The boat racing festival is not only a healthy sporting activity, but also an occasion for local residents and those living far from their hometown to reunite, socialize and strengthen community bonds. Through the races, villagers pray for favorable weather, abundant harvests, and a prosperous, happy New Year.
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The festival provides an opportunity for local residents and those living away from home to meet, exchange greetings and strengthen public solidarity. |
The continued maintenance and successful organization of the festival every Lunar New Year stand as clear evidence of the efforts made by local authorities and residents to preserve and promote their homeland’s fine traditional cultural values.
Translated by Song Anh