The Mystical Giong Festival: Unveiling the Divine Offerings

The Soc Temple Festival: A Thousand-Year-Old Celebration of Vietnam’s Ancient Traditions

Held annually from the 6th to the 8th of the first lunar month, this vibrant festival has endured for over a thousand years, attracting visitors from far and wide to Soc Temple in Soc Son District. Recognized as a Special National Monument, the temple hosts one of Hanoi’s most enchanting festivals, offering a glimpse into Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage.

The drumming ritual marks the beginning of the 2925th Giong Festival. Photo: Trong Tung

The legend of Thanh Giong tells of a miraculous infant from Phu Dong Village, who, in a matter of months, grew into a formidable warrior. With his bravery and strength, he defeated the Chinese invader An, bringing peace to the nation. To commemorate his heroic deeds, the people deified him as Genie Giong and hold an annual festival in his honor.

The Giong Festival takes place at multiple locations across Hanoi, with Soc Temple and Phu Dong Temple being the most significant. Soc Temple holds particular importance as it is the site where the hero ascended to heaven. In recognition of its cultural significance and long-standing traditions, the festival was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in November 2010.

Crowds gather at the Giong Festival in Soc Temple, Soc Son District, Hanoi. Photo courtesy of the People’s Committee of Tien Duoc Commune, Soc Son District.

Among Vietnam’s 7,000 traditional folk festivals, the Giong Festival stands out for its unique cultural and spiritual offerings. From colorful processions to symbolic rituals, it leaves a lasting impression on all who attend. It is a testament to the country’s vibrant heritage and a must-attend event for those seeking an immersive cultural experience.

Join Tung Nguyen of The Hanoi Times as we delve into the symbolic offerings made to Saint Giong during this extraordinary festival, which officially commenced on February 3 at Soc Temple in Soc Son District, Hanoi.

The Bamboo Flower Tree: A Symbol of Unity and Resilience

The Bamboo Flower Tree procession, a striking offering made by the people of Ve Linh Village.

One of the most eye-catching offerings is the bamboo flower tree, crafted by the talented people of Ve Linh Village in Phu Dong Commune. Bamboo was one of Giong’s chosen weapons, and the flowers symbolize unity and resilience in the face of adversity. They represent the solidarity that has helped Vietnamese people overcome countless challenges throughout history.

The Horse Goddess: Honoring Noble Creatures

The Horse Goddess, a magnificent papier-mâché creation by the villagers of Phu Ma Village.

Another offering, the Horse Goddess, pays tribute to the war horses that played a pivotal role in Giong’s victory. Created by the villagers of Phu Ma Village, this papier-mâché masterpiece honors the animals as “gods,” bringing protection and peace to the land. It is a reminder of the crucial role these noble creatures played in securing Vietnam’s freedom.

The War Elephant: Reverence for Strength and Power

The War Elephant procession, a majestic display crafted by the skilled villagers of Duoc Thuong.

The War Elephant statue, made of papier-mâché and bamboo, represents the might and power of elephants in ancient warfare. Created by the talented villagers of Duoc Thuong, the statue honors these majestic creatures as symbols of strength and protection. Their tusks, carefully preserved by the people of Duc Hoa Village, are paraded during the festival with great reverence.

Betel and Areca: Symbols of Hospitality and Respect

Villagers of Dan Tao prepare betel and areca fruit, symbolizing peace, knowledge, and harmony.

The villagers of Dan Tao, Tan Minh Commune, present offerings of betel and fresh areca fruit, embodying Vietnamese hospitality and respect. Legend has it that Thanh Giong rested here after his victory, sharing his wisdom and enjoying a simple meal. These offerings symbolize the peaceful transfer of knowledge and the harmonious relationship between humanity and nature.

Elephant Tusk: Treasured Remnants of a Mighty Past

Elephant tusks, revered as treasures, are carefully preserved and carried during the festival.

The tusks of fallen war elephants hold a special place in the Giong Festival. In Duc Hoa Village, these tusks are meticulously preserved and treated with the utmost respect. They are carried during the festival as a reminder of the strength and power of these majestic creatures.

Elephant Grass: Nourishing the Sacred War Horse

The Co Voi procession, featuring palanquins adorned with lush elephant grass.

Co Voi, or elephant grass, used to feed Thanh Giong’s sacred war horse, holds significant importance in the festival. The people of Yen Sao Village create beautiful palanquins decorated with this grass, symbolizing the care and respect given to these noble animals.

The Female General’s Palanquin: Celebrating Female Leadership

Nguyen Phuong Thao, an 11-year-old student, leads the procession as the “female general” at the opening ceremony.

The Female General’s Palanquin, honored by the people of Yen Tang Village, commemorates one of the female generals who contributed to Thanh Giong’s victory. This powerful symbol celebrates the strength and leadership of women, highlighting their crucial role in Vietnam’s history.

The Cau Huc: A Celebration of Martial Spirit

The intricately decorated ball used in the Cau Huc ceremony, a display of Vietnam’s resilience and martial spirit.

The Cau Huc ceremony features a ball made of bamboo and papier-mâché, beautifully decorated by the people of Tan Minh Commune. This ancient folk game, involving hitting the ball with one’s head, showcases Vietnam’s intelligence, resilience, and martial spirit. It is a vibrant display of the country’s cultural heritage.

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