Palanquin Procession to Hung Temple in Gratitude to Ancestors

On the morning of April 23 (the 7th day of the 3rd lunar month, Year of the Horse), the Hung Temple Historic Site hosted a traditional palanquin procession featuring four communes and wards surrounding the site (Hy Cuong, Lam Thao, Van Phu, and Xuan Lung), along with lion and dragon dances to pay tribute to the Hung Kings and ancestors who founded the nation.

Provincial leaders and representatives of the Organizing Committee present commemorative flags to the participating units.

The event was attended by Mr. Nguyen Manh Son – Deputy Secretary of the Provincial Party Committee; Mr. Nguyen Trung Kien – Member of the Provincial Party Standing Committee and Standing Vice Chairman of the Provincial People’s Council; members of the Organizing Committee, and a vast number of residents and tourists.

According to tradition, every year during the Hung Kings' Commemoration, millions of “Children of the Dragon and Grandchildren of the Fairy” from across the country embark on a pilgrimage to the sacred Nghia Linh Mountain. Communes surrounding the site organize rituals and performances to recreate the ancient cultural lifestyles of the early Vietnamese people.

The palanquin procession of Hy Cuong Commune.

Among these rituals, the palanquin procession to offer gifts to ancestors is a traditional folk ceremony with deep communal significance. It embodies the moral principle of “When drinking water, remember its source,” showing reverence for ancestors and fostering community cohesion and national unity, while also preserving and promoting the nation’s traditional cultural identity.

The processions from various communes and wards solemnly pay tribute to the Ancestors.

The procession began at the main gate of the historic site, passed through the Festival Center courtyard, and halted at the main gate at the foot of Nghia Linh Mountain—the sanctuary for worshipping the Hung Kings—to perform sacred rites. Here, lion and dragon dance troupes performed for the public, creating a solemn yet vibrant atmosphere.

A spectacular lion and dragon dance performance during the program.

The palanquin procession is a unique form of community cultural activity maintained through many generations. Through this, historical and cultural values are conveyed visually and vividly to the public, especially the younger generation. Visitors to the Hung Temple during the festival not only immerse themselves in the solemn atmosphere of the procession but also gain a deeper understanding of the “Worship of Hung Kings” belief, thereby multiplying their love for the homeland and pride in their noble lineage.

Duc Anh