Hội Gióng is a famous traditional festival of Vietnam, held at Đền Sóc (Hanoi) and Đền Phù Đổng (Bac Ninh Province). This festival honors the character Gióng, one of the legendary heroes of Vietnam. Below are some detailed information about Hội Gióng:
1. Origin and Legend
The Legend of Gióng: Gióng, or Saint Gióng, is a character in Vietnamese mythology, believed to have fought against foreign invaders to protect the country. According to the legend, Gióng was born to a common mother and grew up very quickly to become a hero.
Image of Gióng: He is depicted as a strong young man with the ability to fly into the sky and use supernatural powers to defeat his enemies.
2. Location of the Festival
Đền Sóc: Located in Vĩnh Phúc commune, Vĩnh Tường district, Vĩnh Phúc province. This is the place where Gióng is worshipped and the festival is organized. The temple features beautiful natural scenery and a sacred atmosphere, attracting many visitors and locals to participate in the festival.
Đền Phù Đổng: Situated in Phù Đổng commune, Gia Lâm district, Hanoi. This temple honors Gióng and hosts many cultural and artistic activities during the festival.ư
3. Activities in the Festival
Main Festival: Hội Gióng usually takes place in the lunar month of January, lasting about 3 days. The festival features various activities such as processions, lion dances, Quan Ho singing, and folk games.
Procession: The procession of Gióng’s palanquin is an important activity that expresses reverence and gratitude to the hero. The palanquin is elaborately decorated and taken around sacred sites.
Art Performances: During the festival, there are traditional artistic performances, such as water puppetry, cheo singing, and folk games, creating a joyful atmosphere for the festival.
4. Cultural Significance
Preservation of Heritage: Hội Gióng is not only a festival honoring the hero but also an opportunity for the people to preserve and promote the traditional cultural values of the nation. The festival also reflects the spirit of solidarity, patriotism, and the will to resist foreign invaders of the Vietnamese people.
UNESCO Recognition: In 2010, Hội Gióng was recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, contributing to enhancing the value and awareness of preserving traditional culture.
