Hung Kings Commemoration Day, or Hung Kings Festival, is a significant national holiday in Vietnam, held annually on the 10th day of the third lunar month. This day honors the Hung Kings, the legendary founders of Vietnam, and serves as a powerful reminder of the nation’s rich history and cultural heritage.
Origin
The Hung Kings are believed to be the descendants of Lac Long Quan and Au Co, mythical figures considered the ancestors of the Vietnamese people. According to legend, Lac Long Quan, a dragon, and Au Co, a fairy, had 100 sons, from which the Hung Kings dynasty emerged. The Hung Kings are credited with establishing the first Vietnamese state, Van Lang, and laying the foundation for the nation’s development.
Significance
Hung Kings Commemoration Day is a time for Vietnamese people to express their gratitude and respect for their ancestors. It is an occasion to remember the origins of their nation and to celebrate the values of unity, patriotism, and national pride. The festival also serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving Vietnamese cultural traditions and passing them down to future generations.
Celebrations
The main celebrations take place at the Hung Temple, a complex of temples located in Phu Tho province, where the Hung Kings are believed to have ruled. The festival features a variety of traditional rituals, including:
- Offerings: People offer food, flowers, and incense to the Hung Kings, expressing their gratitude and respect.
- Processions: Elaborate processions featuring traditional music and dances take place throughout the temple complex.
- Folk games: Traditional folk games, such as wrestling and bamboo swings, are played, adding to the festive atmosphere.
- Cultural performances: Cultural performances, showcasing Vietnamese traditional music, dance, and theater, are held, entertaining and educating visitors.
National Holiday
In 2007, the Vietnamese government designated Hung Kings Commemoration Day as a national holiday, recognizing its importance in Vietnamese culture and history. This decision allows all Vietnamese citizens to participate in the celebrations and to honor their ancestors.
A Symbol of National Unity
Hung Kings Commemoration Day is a powerful symbol of national unity, bringing together Vietnamese people from all walks of life to celebrate their shared heritage. It is a time for reflection, remembrance, and celebration, reinforcing the bonds that connect the Vietnamese people and strengthen their national identity.