Hue Festival is more open to the community (Photo: Vinh Thong/ VOV)

Themed "Cultural heritage with integration and development", the Hue Festival is held throughout the four seasons – “Spring in the Ancient Capital” from January to March, "The Shining Capital" from April to June, “Hue in Autumn” from July to September, and “Winter in Hue” from October to December.

The Autumn Festival began with a procession on the Huong river from Chi Lang to Hue Nam Palace. Tens of dragon-shaped boats carried the palanquin of the Mother Goddess Thien Y A Na, the King's proclamations, and worship objects. This traditional folk festival exhibits cultural elements of the ancient capital.

Ao dai Week, an activity at the Hue Festival, attracts a lot of visitors. (Photo: VOV)
Huynh Trinh Tan Toan, a visitor from Dak Lak province, said: “I’ve heard about the Hue Nam Palace Festival, but this is the first time I’ve been to Hue during the festive season. Visitors can learn something about traditional culture and the worship of Mother Goddess Thien Y A Na.”

The worshiping of Mother Goddess has been recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

Phan Thanh Hai, Director of the Department of Culture and Sports of Thua Thien Hue province, said: “Traditional festivals of Thua Thien-Hue, including the Hue Nam Palace Festival, emphasize safety and environmental protection.”

The coming Mid-Autumn celebration will involve the Hue Lantern Festival, street performances of unicorn, lion, and dragon dances, and traditional Mid-Autumn parties.