The Thrilling Boat Race Festival: A Central Vietnam Tradition

Thanh Ha Village, a 500-year-old community in central Vietnam, is renowned for its exquisite traditional pottery and vibrant cultural heritage. The village, located in Hoi An City, Quang Nam Province, has become a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors with its colorful and unique craftsmanship.

What sets Thanh Ha Village apart is the use of clay from the Thu Bon River to create their distinctive pottery. The village comes alive with color, as the local artisans shape and mold the clay into vibrant works of art.

To celebrate their rich history and tradition, the village hosts an annual boat racing festival on the Thu Bon River. This year, the event took place on a Tuesday in August, with an energetic and festive atmosphere.

Crowds of locals and tourists gathered at the new Cam Kim Bridge and along the riverbanks to witness the exciting races. The atmosphere was electric as spectators cheered on their favorite teams, with the rhythmic drumming and continuous applause adding to the lively setting.

Nine teams from across Quang Nam Province and neighboring Da Nang City participated in the races, each comprising 17 strong and skilled rowers. As the starting signal sounded, the teams rowed with determination and speed, their boats cutting through the water as the crowd cheered them on.

The event was not just about the races, but also a celebration of community and heritage. For the locals, like Nguyen Sau, a resident of Thanh Ha pottery village, the boat racing festival is a cherished tradition that fosters unity and preserves their cultural heritage.

Tourists, too, were captivated by the festival. Nguyen Huy, a visitor from Da Nang, was impressed by the vibrant atmosphere and the passion of the locals, which made the event truly special.

The Thanh Ha boat racing festival is more than just a sporting event; it is a celebration of community, culture, and heritage. It brings people together, showcasing the unity and spirit of the people of central Vietnam.

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