Discovering Festival Culture: Unique Features of Dong Da Mound Festival

Dong Da Mound Festival, also known as the Victory Festival, is not only an event to honor the merits of King Quang Trung in the resistance war against the Qing army but also an occasion to arouse the pride and indomitable spirit of the nation. Every year, on the 5th day of Tet, Hanoians and tourists from all over gather at Dong Da Mound, Quang Trung Ward, Dong Da District to immerse themselves in the solemn and vibrant atmosphere, reminding them of the heroic feats on this historic land. Located in the heart of the capital, Dong Da Mound is a living testament to the glorious history of the Vietnamese people in the struggle to defend the country, carrying within it profound cultural, spiritual and national identity values.

The festival space seemed to be filled with new vitality when solemn rituals were performed one after another. From early morning, the procession from Khuong Thuong communal house departed in the sacredness of the procession of King Quang Trung and Queen Ngoc Han. The procession, with the participation of the village elders, was a symbol of respect for the heroes who sacrificed their lives for the country. The procession moved slowly through the streets, in a space filled with the colors of flags and the resounding sound of drums and gongs. All of these combined to create a solemn and emotional cultural picture, attracting the eyes and respect of the people and tourists.

Many grand rituals are held within the framework of the festival (Photo: Collected)

When the procession arrived at Dong Da mound, the ceremony continued with the incense offering and speech reading, a solemn ritual that made the atmosphere here even more sacred. At the foot of Quang Trung statue, Dong Da district leaders and people respectfully offered incense, remembering the cloth hero and the Tay Son army who wrote a heroic history in the spring of Ky Dau year. The speech reviewed the Ngoc Hoi - Dong Da victory, arousing pride and reminding everyone of the meaning of national unity. At that moment, everyone seemed to relive historical moments, feeling the courage and resilience of their ancestors through each emotional word.

The festival part of Dong Da Mound Festival is where the excitement and joyful spirit spread. The opening drum dance performance and the attractive dragon dances made the atmosphere even more jubilant and bustling. Folk games such as wrestling, cockfighting, and tug of war were held one after another, bringing joy and excitement to everyone. In particular, the Tay Son martial arts competition, symbolizing the martial spirit of the ancient Tay Son army, became the highlight of the festival. The graceful and brave martial arts matches with the majestic drum beats and the cheers of the audience recreated the indomitable spirit and unyielding will of the glorious period.

The procession of King Quang Trung and Queen Ngoc Han departed from Khuong Thuong communal house to Dong Da Mound (Photo: collected)

One of the unique highlights is the folk art performances recreating history performed by artists from the Vietnamese Cheo Theatre. Scenes of the march of King Quang Trung and the Tay Son army, from the lightning-fast steps to the battle scenes, are elaborately staged, helping viewers visualize more clearly the glorious feats of the nation. The stage recreates the image of our ancestors rushing into battle, not only as a performance but also as an epic praising the patriotism, solidarity, and bravery of the Vietnamese people.

The Dong Da Mound Festival is an occasion to commemorate the merits of King Quang Trung and the heroes of the nation, and at the same time, it is an opportunity for the community to together light up the flame of national pride. Hanoians and tourists from all over the country flock here, both to participate in the festival and to immerse themselves in the rhythm of history, to look back at traditional values, and to feel the strong and shining Vietnamese spirit.

For the people of Hanoi, the Dong Da Mound Festival is one of the special cultural events, indispensable at the beginning of the year. Here, memories of the glorious past are still alive, urging people to move forward. Over the years, the Dong Da Mound Festival is both a spiritual cultural heritage and a symbol of community connection, creating a bridge for future generations to continue the heroic tradition of their ancestors.

Hoang Anh