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 and honors Vietnam’s ancient martial arts traditions and military preparedness. 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. To train their soldiers and prepare for potential foreign invasions, the generals created a unique and thrilling game. A large wooden ball, named Qua Phet, was crafted, greased, and rolled out into an open field, where soldiers would eagerly engage in a spirited fight to seize possession 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 hold this festival dear, building five communal houses to honor the legacy of the legendary generals and store the sacred balls. The game has become a symbol of community spirit and a source of excitement for all participants and spectators. It is believed that the lucky villager who catches the ball will not only receive blessings but also bring good luck to the entire community for the coming year.
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The festival is a vibrant celebration with two main parts: solemn ceremonies and energetic festival games.
Photos: Ngoc Tu – Duy Khanh/The Hanoi Times
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The ceremony includes the traditional offering of incense and processions to the village communal houses, setting a solemn tone for the festival.
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The highlight of the festival is the ball robbery game, a thrilling competition that attracts hundreds of young men from the four villages, eager to showcase their strength and agility.
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A close-up of the wooden ball, Qua Phet, the center of attention during the festival 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, enhancing the atmosphere.
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The crowd gathers eagerly, cheering on the competitors and awaiting the moment when a lucky participant successfully captures the elusive wooden ball.
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It is believed that whoever touches the ball during the game will be blessed with good luck and fortune for the entire year, making it a highly anticipated moment for all involved.
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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 and experience the community’s spirit and enthusiasm for a unique tradition passed down through generations.
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