A traditional festival dedicated to elders has been held in Quang Ninh Province for years to commemorate local ancestors.

The Tien Cong fest, which took place from the fifth to the seventh day of the Lunar New Year (February 12-14) in Quang Yen Commune on Ha Nam Island, was meant to remind people of their ancestors who discovered the land and turned it into a prosperous place. 

With a history spanning nearly 500 years, the event gathered elders who have an even-numbered age equal to or greater than 80.

Tien Cong was originally held in four communes including Cam La, Phong Coc, Nam Hoa, and Yen Dong but later spread to others.

According to locals, in 1434, following the king’s order, 17 people including scholars, craftsmen, fishermen, and farmers traveled across the Hong (Red) River in northern Vietnam to find their promised land and build a village, now located on Ha Nam Island.

Since then, many traditional rituals and festivals have been organized locally as a way to remind people of their ancestry. 

This year’s event, which included musical performances and folk games, welcomed 187 people, two of whom are 100 years old.

Local artisans sing together during a musical session. Photo: Tuoi Tre

Elders wear ‘ao dai’ (Vietnam’s traditional long gown) to attend the Tien Cong festival. Photo: Tuoi Tre

Tien Cong was held from the fifth day to the seventh day of the Lunar New Year. Photo: Tuoi Tre

Hundreds of people are seen taking offerings to the festival. Photo: Tuoi Tre

Elders perform rituals during a ceremony. Photo: Tuoi Tre

Folk games attract many attendees. Photo: Tuoi Tre

Thousands of people including locals and tourists participate in the event. Photo: Tuoi Tre

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