Visitors will enjoy traditional Mong khen panpipe performances, ethnic costume shows, folk music, and demonstrations of traditional crafts. The festival will also offer opportunities to sample local cuisine, take part in traditional folk games, and watch people pound and grind corn for banh giay sticky rice cakes.
There will be demonstrations of women’s football, tug-of-war, stick pushing, spinning-top competitions, crossbow shooting, and pa pao ball throwing.
Nguyen Thi Thanh Chuyen, Deputy Director of the Dien Bien Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism, said: “The highlight of the festival is the colorful cultural tapestry of 11 provinces and cities brought together in Dien Bien. Local residents and visitors will have the opportunity to experience the everyday life of the Hmong people and discover the distinctive traditions that define their cultural identity.”
At the opening ceremony, a series of performances showcased the distinctive cultural traditions of the Mong community.
Vu Thi Hong Thang, a member of the Dien Bien provincial Art Troupe, said: “Our troupe is working hard rehearsing for the performances. Rooted in Mong cultural traditions, our shows will give local residents and visitors polished and engaging performances.”
Visitors will be taken to Tu Lu-Tia Lo hamlet in Pu Nhi commune to explore Mong daily life, cuisine, and cultural traditions.
The aim of the festival is to turn cultural heritages into tourism products, safeguard ethnic traditions, and boost the livelihoods of local residents.
