Making festivals in Lam Thao more fun and meaningful

With a rich historical and cultural tradition, Lam Thao – the Land of Rice and Culture is home to more than 20 festivals, most of which are traditional festivals associated with historical and cultural relics. Some notable festivals include the Tro Tram Festival in Tu Xa Commune, the Procession of the Virgin Lord Festival in Hung Son Town, and the Wrestling Competition Festival in Cao Xa Commune (recognized as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage). Like other localities across the province, traditional festivals in Lam Thao mainly take place in early spring.

Closely linked to these traditional festivals are cultural and historical relics. According to recent surveys, the district has 134 relics, of which 55 have been officially recognized, including 20 national-level relics and 35 provincial-level relics. To enhance awareness and responsibility among authorities, communities, and especially residents living near these relics in preserving and promoting cultural heritage values, the Lam Thao District People’s Committee issued Plan No. 25/KH-UBND on February 21, 2023, for the implementation of the Cultural Heritage Conservation and Sustainable Development Program for the period 2023–2030.

After three years of implementation, the protection, preservation, and promotion of cultural heritage values have shown positive progress. The socialization efforts in restoration, renovation, and enhancement of relic values have received enthusiastic support from all social classes, bringing about remarkable effectiveness. These efforts have helped promote the image, culture, and people of Lam Thao, fostering connections with tourism development.

On the other hand, various effective communication methods have been implemented, and “Skillful Mass Mobilization” models have contributed to preserving and promoting cultural values. The community digital technology teams have been actively engaged in applying technology and digital transformation in cultural heritage promotion. Initiatives include developing QR code systems to quickly provide visitors with information across digital platforms, regularly updating and posting information about historical and cultural sites and festivals on the district’s electronic portal, and establishing youth-driven digital transformation models to support the promotion of heritage sites, cultural landmarks, and spiritual tourism destinations in the area.

To effectively protect and promote cultural heritage for sustainable development, Lam Thao will intensify monitoring efforts and strengthen the safeguarding of both tangible and intangible cultural heritage. The district aims to clearly define authority and responsibilities while maximizing the initiative and creativity of local authorities, relevant agencies, and the community. Additionally, community oversight will be emphasized to ensure transparency and effectiveness in heritage conservation.

Furthermore, the district will continue leveraging social resources for cultural heritage preservation and promotion. Digitization of heritage databases will be expanded to enhance storage and accessibility, creating the best possible conditions for public participation in heritage protection and value enhancement—allowing the community to benefit directly from these conservation efforts.

Le Hoang