Every year, in the lunar month of April, An Giang comes alive with thousands of visitors from all over the country converging to celebrate the Via Ba Chua Xu Festival at Sam Mountain – one of the largest, most unique, and culturally rich festivals in the Southern region of Vietnam. This is not only a time for people to express their reverence for Ba Chua Xu, the deity believed to bring peace, prosperity, and good fortune, but also an opportunity for travelers to immerse themselves in the region’s distinctive history, beliefs, and cultural heritage.
A Cultural Pride
The Via Ba Chua Xu Festival is not just a religious event; it is a vibrant reflection of the cultural fusion between the Vietnamese, Khmer, Hoa, and Cham communities. Over 200 years of tradition, the festival has become a symbol of unity and respect, preserving the distinctive values of Southern Vietnam.
Recognized by the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism as a national intangible cultural heritage in 2014, the Via Ba Chua Xu Festival was officially added to UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2024. This achievement marks an important milestone in preserving and promoting the unique cultural values of Vietnam. It is a source of immense pride, not only for An Giang but for the entire nation, as it becomes the 16th Vietnamese cultural heritage inscribed by UNESCO.
A Journey Through History to the Present
The Via Ba Chua Xu Festival is deeply rooted in a captivating legend. Over 200 years ago, during frequent Siamese invasions, a sacred statue of Ba Chua Xu was discovered atop Sam Mountain. Despite numerous attempts by locals to move the statue, it remained immovable until nine virgin girls joined forces to carry it down. Upon reaching the foot of the mountain, the statue suddenly became too heavy to lift. The villagers understood that the goddess wished to remain at this location, and so they built a temple to honor her.
Today, the festival is not only a time for worship, but also a moment for the local people and visitors to show gratitude and reverence to Ba Chua Xu. Traditional rituals such as the goddess bathing ceremony, statue procession, and the return of the incense to the temple remain at the heart of the festival. These rituals are a living history that allows visitors to connect deeply with the spiritual essence and cultural roots of this southern region.
A Festival Full of Life and Color
The Via Ba Chua Xu Festival is a beautiful blend of sacred traditions and lively celebrations. In addition to the solemn rituals, there are vibrant performances, folk games, and reenactments of historical stories that bring the festival to life. The “Making Ba’s Robe” program and the procession of the goddess statue from the summit of Sam Mountain to the temple are poignant highlights that inspire reverence and awe. This is an ideal time for visitors not only to participate in sacred ceremonies but also to enjoy the festive atmosphere and connect with the local culture.
The festival also includes engaging cultural activities such as theatrical performances, street performances, and other entertainment options that delight both locals and tourists alike. These vibrant elements make the Via Ba Chua Xu Festival not only a spiritual experience but also a fun and immersive cultural journey.
Via Ba Chua Xu Festival – A Must-Visit Destination
With its UNESCO recognition, the Via Ba Chua Xu Festival has become not only a point of pride for An Giang but also a major cultural destination attracting visitors from both near and far. It offers a rare opportunity for travelers to experience not only the region’s picturesque landscapes but also to participate in one of Vietnam’s most unique cultural and spiritual events.
As Le Quang Thi, Secretary of the Chao Doc City Party Committee, shares, “The recognition of the Via Ba Chua Xu Festival as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity is a great honor, and it also comes with the responsibility to preserve and promote the value of this heritage.” With this pride and commitment, the festival will continue to be a shining cultural symbol, inspiring both local and international visitors alike.
If you’re looking for a destination that combines deep cultural significance with vibrant celebration, make sure to visit Chao Doc, An Giang during the festival season. Feel the spiritual atmosphere, participate in the sacred rituals, and take home unforgettable memories of a festival that showcases the colorful traditions of Southern Vietnam.
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