The annual festival, officially held from Wednesday to Saturday, comprises two main parts: a solemn ceremony and vibrant festive activities, which kick-started on November 8.
Marking the end of the harvest season, the event is a tribute to the moon, revered as the god of nature in Khmer ethnic culture. It is believed that the moon plays a pivotal role in regulating the weather, blessing bountiful harvests, and bestowing prosperity upon the village.
According to the Committee for Ethnic Minority Affairs, the Khmer community in Vietnam numbers over 1.3 million, accounting for 4.45 percent of the southern region’s population. In Kien Giang Province, the Khmer people form a significant part of the community, with over 13 percent representation, totaling more than 237,000 individuals from over 56,000 households.
This year’s festival is a celebration of cultural diversity, featuring a spectrum of activities. These include the moon worship ceremony, a trade fair exhibiting local products, displays of Khmer artifacts and imagery, book exhibitions, and sporting events such as men’s football, tug-of-war, and the thrilling Ngo (Khmer) boat races.
The organizers anticipate a footfall of 200,000–250,000 attendees, not just from Kien Giang Province but also from farther afield.
Le Trung Ho, deputy chairman of the provincial People’s Committee, underscored the festival’s cultural importance, stating that it serves to preserve, honor, and propagate traditional cultural identity. He added that it enriches the spiritual lives of the province’s ethnic minorities.
“The festival is a platform for people to unite, exchange ideas, and engage in cultural, artistic, and sporting activities,” Ho emphasized. “It fosters solidarity among ethnic groups within and beyond the province, showcasing the unique cultural allure of our region.”
Experience it yourself and immerse in the vibrant culture!
The Enchanting World of Vietnamese Children’s Literature: A Treasure Trove of Stories Honoured by the International Youth Library.
“Ba tớ là runner”, a captivating Vietnamese book, has earned a prestigious spot in the International Youth Library’s The White Ravens 2024 catalogue. This annual list showcases the world’s most intriguing and exceptional books, and “Ba tớ là runner” has proudly secured its place among them.
The Alluring Charm of Ethnic Wear: Beauties Captivate in the National Costume Competition at Miss Grand Vietnam 2024
On July 30, local beauty queens and the Top 36 finalists of Miss Grand Vietnam 2024 captivated judges and fans alike with their stunning national costume showcase. The pageant, currently underway in Phan Thiet City, is off to a dazzling start, with these talented women proudly representing their country’s rich culture and heritage.
The Cinematic Showcase: Vietnam on the Silver Screen at the UK’s Premier Arts Festival
“Once Upon a Bridge in Vietnam” is a captivating film directed by the talented Franco-Vietnamese filmmaker, François Bibonne. This beautiful piece of cinema was recently showcased at the prestigious Ruthin International Arts Festival (RIAF) in 2024, set in the charming and historic town of Ruthin, North Wales.
Cinematically Showcasing Vietnam: A Festival Feature
“Once Upon a Bridge in Vietnam,” a captivating film by the renowned French-Vietnamese director François Bibonne, illuminated the screens at the prestigious Ruthin International Arts Festival (RIAF) in 2024. The historic town of Ruthin in North Wales set a majestic backdrop for this cinematic masterpiece.
Vietnamese Student Bags Gold at the Asia Arts Festival 2024
Dang Ngoc Anh, a prodigious 20-year-old pianist and student at the Vietnam National Academy of Music, has struck a chord with audiences and judges alike at the Asia Arts Festival 2024. His performance culminated in a gold award, solidifying his place as a rising star in the world of music.
