The Da Cau Cuop Phet Festival, or “Ball Kicking and Robbing Festival,” is a lively and joyous event held annually in Ban Gian Commune, Lap Thach District, in the northern province of Vinh Phuc, just 70 kilometers from Hanoi. This year, the festival took place on the 7th day of the Lunar New Year, falling on February 4th, and is believed to bring good luck to the winner of the exciting and energetic games.
With a history spanning centuries, the festival celebrates Vietnam’s ancient martial arts and military traditions. Its origins date back to the reign of the Third Hung King (2524 – 2253 BC), a time of internal strife and banditry in the country, including the Lap Thach area. As a response to the turmoil, the king dispatched four generals to govern the region and maintain order.
These generals, in preparation for potential foreign invasions, devised a unique and thrilling game to train their soldiers. A large wooden ball, named Qua Phet, was crafted, greased, and rolled out into an open field. Soldiers would then engage in a spirited competition, fighting to seize control of the ball. Those who successfully captured it and placed it in the designated spot received great rewards and were believed to bring good fortune to their village.
The people of Lap Thach, honoring the legacy of these legendary generals, constructed five communal houses to safeguard the sacred balls and carry on the tradition of the game. It is believed that the lucky villager who wins the game will not only be blessed with good luck but will also bring prosperity to their entire community for the coming year.
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The festival is a vibrant celebration divided into two main parts: solemn ceremonies and energetic festivities. Photos: Ngoc Tu – Duy
Khanh/The Hanoi Times
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The ceremony includes the offering of incense and respectful processions to the communal houses, honoring the village’s heritage.
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The highlight of the festival is the thrilling ball robbery game, attracting hundreds of energetic young men from the four villages.
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A close-up of the wooden ball, the center of attention during the energetic and competitive games.
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The procession of the saint’s palanquin, with a mannequin dressed as a mandarin, adds a festive and cultural touch to the event.
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The crowd cheers on the competitors, their excitement building as they await the moment when someone successfully captures the elusive wooden ball.
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Touching the ball is considered a blessing, bringing good luck to the individual and their village for the entire year.
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The Da Cau Cuop Phet Festival is more than just a celebration; it is a rare opportunity to immerse oneself in Vietnam’s cultural history, community spirit, and the excitement of a unique tradition that has been passed down for generations.
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