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A Series of Cultural Activities in May Celebrating “President Ho Chi Minh and the Ethnic Communities of Vietnam”

In celebration of the 135th birth anniversary of President Ho Chi Minh (May 19, 1890 – May 19, 2025) and the 71st anniversary of the Điện Biên Phủ Victory (May 7, 1954 – May 7, 2025), the Vietnam National Village for Ethnic Culture and Tourism will host a series of special cultural events from May 5 to May 31 under the theme “President Ho Chi Minh and the Ethnic Communities of Vietnam.”

These events aim to further promote daily and weekend cultural activities, showcasing the traditional customs, practices, and lifestyles of Vietnam’s 54 ethnic groups at the shared cultural space known as the “Common House.” The activities seek to strengthen interethnic connections, encourage regional cultural exchanges, and attract more tourists to the Village.

At the same time, the program contributes to promoting the study and emulation of President Ho Chi Minh’s moral example and lifestyle, inspiring both the ethnic communities and visitors to the Village to embrace his teachings in practical and meaningful ways.

Cultural Participation and Regional Representation

Over 100 participants from 16 ethnic groups, such as the Nùng, Tày, H’mông, Dao, Mường, Lao, Thái, Khơ Mú, Tà Ôi, Ba Na, Xơ Đăng, Gia Rai, Cơ Tu, Raglai, Ê Đê, and Khmer, will take part in the event. Representatives from 11 provinces and cities will also participate, including Thái Nguyên, Hà Nội, Hà Giang, Sơn La, Hòa Bình, Huế, Gia Lai, Kon Tum, Đắk Lắk, Ninh Thuận, and Sóc Trăng. Additionally, about 25 members of the Cơ Tu and Tà Ôi ethnic groups from A Lưới district (Hue) will be invited on May 17–18.

Key Highlights of the Event

Under the theme “President Ho Chi Minh and the Ethnic Communities of Vietnam,” a variety of engaging activities will be held, such as a re-enactment of the Forest God Worship Ceremony by the ethnic groups of A Lưới on May 18. This is a unique community-based ritual that reflects harmony between humans and nature, preserved through generations.

One of the most anticipated events is the folk music and dance performance program titled “President Ho Chi Minh – An Infinite Love” (May 17–18), which includes cultural exchanges and performances dedicated to honoring President Ho Chi Minh. Ethnic communities from A Lưới and neighboring groups will present folk songs and dances expressing their affection for Uncle Ho. The event will also feature the introduction of intangible cultural heritage, such as Zèng weaving, a proud traditional textile art of the Tà Ôi people.

Another musical program titled “Songs Offered to Uncle Ho” will be performed by resident ethnic groups at the Village. The program includes songs, instrumental performances, and traditional dances that express the people’s deep love and respect for President Ho Chi Minh. Additionally, a themed activity titled “President Ho Chi Minh and the Central Highlands” will feature musical exchanges that showcase the sentiments of the ethnic communities from the Central Highlands.

Buddha’s Birthday Celebration

At the Khmer Temple Complex within the Village, the annual Buddha’s Birthday (Vesak) celebration will take place. This is the most significant event in the Buddhist calendar, commemorating the historical life and teachings of the Buddha.

Hands-On Cultural Experiences for Visitors

Throughout May, visitors to the Vietnam National Village for Ethnic Culture and Tourism can immerse themselves in various traditional experiences, including folk games such as ô ăn quan, tic-tac-toe, and bamboo puppetry indoors, or stilt walking, bamboo pole dancing, swings, and seesaws outdoors. Guests can also explore ethnic culinary traditions and savor signature dishes from different communities across Vietnam.