YBO - This morning, 12th of December (the 15th day of the first lunar month, Year of the Snake 2025), thousands of locals and visitors gathered at the Nam Cuong Communal House – Temple – Pagoda Cultural and Historical Site in Nam Cuong Ward, Yen Bai City, to attend the opening ceremony of the Nam Cuong Mother Goddess Temple Festival.
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The festival is solemnly organized with both ceremonial and celebratory segments, featuring the Peace Dove Release Ceremony as a symbolic act of spiritual devotion and well-wishing.
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The festival began with a procession and incense offering ceremony dedicated to the Holy Mother Linh Tu. Five residential groups, symbolizing the five lands united in solidarity, presented offerings to the Mother Goddess and Buddha. These offerings, prepared with devotion by the people themselves, reflect the community’s resilience and determination in building and renewing Nam Cuong Ward. The ceremony was conducted with sincere prayers for favorable weather, protection, peace, and happiness for all.
One of the most spiritually significant traditions of the festival is the Peace Dove Release Ceremony. This ritual represents the harmony between humans and nature. The family selected to perform the dove release must meet certain criteria: good health, successful livelihoods, and well-educated, well-mannered children. Twelve doves are released, symbolizing the collective wish for peace and happiness throughout the twelve months of the year.
Following the dove release, the festival featured a vibrant cultural performance celebrating the homeland, the nation, and the rich traditions of Vietnam. Additionally, a longevity ceremony was held to honor the elderly, embodying the Vietnamese value of respect for the elderly and love for the young. On this occasion, outstanding students were also recognized and awarded for their academic achievements. The festival concluded with a ceremonial fish release into the central lake, symbolizing wishes for a prosperous and joyful year ahead for all.
One of the most highly anticipated cultural traditions at the Nam Cuong Temple Festival is the boat racing competition. This event is not only a cherished traditional practice but also an exciting sport that draws numerous participants, fostering physical fitness and symbolizing the spirit of unity, perseverance, and faith in a prosperous future.
In 2024, the Nam Cuong Communal House – Temple – Pagoda area suffered severe damage from Typhoon Yagi (Storm No. 3). However, to ensure that the festival could proceed and continue serving the spiritual and cultural needs of both locals and visitors, Nam Cuong Ward sought approval from the city to restore and upgrade infrastructure. Thanks to these efforts, the temple complex and the surrounding embankment area now boast a refreshed and well-maintained appearance.
This year’s festival not only upholds traditional activities but also introduces new highlights. Notably, folk Quan Ho singing performances will take place on boats, floating stages, and bridges, creating an unforgettable cultural experience for both residents and visitors.
The Nam Cuong Temple Festival in Yen Bai City is more than just a cultural and historical event—it is a moment of unity, a time to express hopes for favorable weather, abundant harvests, peace, and happiness.
Thanh Chi – Hoai Van
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In January 2025, Yen Bai province boosted its export activities, achieving an export value of 35.5 million USD—exceeding 7% of the annual plan and reaching 115% in the same period in 2024.
