(VOVWORLD) - Quang Ninh province has held a Sea Opening Festival on Co To Island, aiming to raise people’s awareness of the importance and value of the sea and to encourage action to protect the marine environment.
 The Sea Opening Festival is held on Co To Island (photo: Vu Mien/ VOV) |
Nguyen Thi Thanh Thai, Secretary of Thanh Lan commune’s Party Committee and Chairwoman of the communal People’s Committee, said: “This is the first time that we have organized the Sea Opening Festival. We have carefully prepared for the event, aiming to preserve and promote the national cultural values as well as unique traditions of coastal people.”
The Sea Opening Festival features the folk beliefs of fishermen, which include worshipping sea genies to pray for peace and bountiful catches.
 The Sea Opening Festival prays for peace and bountiful catches. (photo: Vu Mien/ VOV) |
“We are very excited and proud as the festival is held in our commune. People are eagerly participating in many activities,” said a resident in Thanh Lan commune.
“I’m very lucky to attend the Sea Opening Festival held for the first time in Thanh Lan commune. It’s a meaningful event. I wish local tourism will flourish and people will enjoy a prosperous year, favorable weather, and calm seas” a local woman said.
Thanh Lan Island commune has a strategic position in national defense and security. It covers about 27 sq. km. and is home to 1,600 people.