In the quaint commune of La Phu, located in Hoai Duc District on the outskirts of Hanoi, a unique tradition unfolds annually on the 13th day of the Lunar New Year. Locals gather at the stroke of midnight [February 10 this year] to honor their tutelary god with a solemn ceremony, paying homage to a revered figure from their past.
The pinnacle of this event is the procession of “Mr. Pigs,” an eccentric yet heartfelt tribute. Villagers offer these pigs as sacrifices at the communal house, honoring the memory of General Tam Lang, a noble warrior from the era of Hung Due Vuong, or the 18th generation of Hung kings. General Tam Lang’s valiant efforts in defeating enemies and bringing peace to the area earned him a place of respect in the hearts of the people of La Phu.
The talented general’s passing, which occurred at midnight on the 13th day of the first lunar month, is commemorated with the Pig Procession Festival. The people of La Phu ensure that the festival is a grand affair, with preparations spanning several days.
On the eve of the event, the village buzzes with activity as folk performances take place to celebrate this important occasion. This year, 17 pigs were offered by villagers from all 17 hamlets, each carefully selected and prepared with steamed sticky rice, flowers, and fruit. A suitable worshipping pig is chosen based on specific criteria: a strong body, long snout, large ears, white skin, and a weight exceeding 220kg.
Six of the most magnificent pigs are then carried into the main hall of La Phu temple by young men from the village, while the remaining 11 are placed in an outer room. At midnight, village elders commence a ritual that lasts until 2 am the next day, after which the pork is distributed among the families, symbolizing good luck and unity.
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| The people of La Phu spend many days meticulously preparing for the procession. Photos: Duy Khanh/The Hanoi Times |
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| The village comes alive on the eve of the event, with every corner bustling with activity. |
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| Folkloric performances add a layer of celebration and tradition to the event. |
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| Villagers from all 17 hamlets come together to offer their chosen pigs to the saint. |
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| The offerings are carefully curated and include a pig, steamed sticky rice, flowers, and fruit. |
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| A worshipping pig must meet specific physical criteria, symbolizing strength and prosperity. |
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| Six of the most beautiful pigs are chosen for the main hall, with the remaining 11 placed in an outer room. |
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| Young men from the village have the honor of carrying the pigs in palanquins. |
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At midnight, village elders begin their ritual, which continues until the early hours of the morning.
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