The Sacredness of the National Commemoration Day

The 10th day of the 3rd lunar month — the Hung Kings' Commemoration Day — is not only a major cultural and spiritual event but also a sacred convergence of millions of hearts returning to their roots. Amidst this flow, every preparation and ceremonial step is organized with precision and professionalism, contributing to a safe, healthy, and identity-rich festival.

The incense-offering ritual is elaborately and solemnly prepared.

From early morning, functional forces simultaneously deployed duties along all routes leading to the Historic Site. Traffic flow management was implemented scientifically and flexibly. At key intersections, the Provincial Police stationed personnel to guide citizens and promptly handle any arising situations, ensuring a seamless flow for pilgrims without local congestion.

Notably, the Incense Offering Ceremony — the most vital ritual of the main festival day — was prepared with great meticulousness. Every detail, from the offerings and costumes to the ceremonial formation and program script, was thoroughly reviewed to ensure absolute solemnity in accordance with traditional rites.

Descendants of Lac Hong in traditional costumes ascend to the summit of Nghia Linh Mountain for the ceremony at the Upper Temple.

At exactly 7:00 AM, amidst the heroic echoes of ceremonial music resonating through the mountains, the delegation of Party and State leaders, alongside representatives from Phu Tho Province, solemnly conducted the ritual. Leading the way was the guard of honor carrying the National Flag and festival flags, followed by young women in red ao dai and the “Children of Lac Hong” delegation. Traditional offerings like Banh Chung and Banh Giay, associated with the legend of Lang Lieu, were respectfully presented, reminding everyone of the “Square Earth - Round Heaven” philosophy and a thousand-year cultural foundation.

From early morning, a vast number of people from across the country gather, waiting for the moment to offer incense to the Kings.

They carry joy, happiness, and pride in being descendants of the Hung Kings.

In that moment, tens of thousands of people below shared the same emotion. Many silently clasped their hands toward the Upper Temple, lighting a stick of heart-felt incense. This resonance of faith and national spirit created a sacred space connecting the past with the present, forging a strong will for the future.

Security measures are tightened.

Citizens receive enthusiastic support and guidance at checkpoints.

After the ceremony, the crowd continued to flow toward the temples and pagodas within the complex. Despite the massive numbers, the festival remained orderly. Walkways were clearly divided with constant guidance to minimize pushing and shoving. Tourist services were strictly controlled with public price listings, fostering a civilized and healthy festival environment.

The Provincial Police identified ensuring security and order as a core task to preserve the solemn image of a spiritual event with special significance to the entire nation.

Small children are supported by youth volunteers.

Sharing his thoughts at the Lower Temple, Mr. Nguyen Van Hoa from Nam Dinh province said: "I return to Hung Temple every year. This year is very crowded, but everything is organized systematically. I feel deeply moved and proud to offer incense here."

The Organizing Committee stated that the 2026 ceremony aimed for the highest goal of maintaining absolute solemnity while building a "Model Festival." Plans for traffic, security, health, and the environment were synchronized to enhance the image of Hung Temple in the hearts of compatriots and tourists.

Environmental hygiene at the festival is strictly implemented.

A noteworthy point during the main festival was the promotion of "Festival Civilization." Images of people queuing orderly, not littering, and showing mutual respect while moving have become common. This reflects a positive shift in community awareness regarding the preservation of traditional cultural values.

Various vibrant activities at the festival attract a large audience.

Attending the National Commemoration for the first time, Ms. Tran Thu Ha from Hanoi emotionally expressed: "Standing in this sacred space, I feel a blood-bond with my roots. This is truly a sacred and proud experience."

Publicity and guidance activities are continuously deployed to support the people.

The Hung Kings' Commemoration is more than a traditional ritual; it is a journey back to the roots and the sustainable values that have forged the national identity over thousands of years of history.

The solemnity of the rites, the thoughtfulness of the organization, and especially the civilized consciousness of the people have made a complete and meaningful festival season. From here, the message “When drinking water, remember its source” is not just a reminder but is demonstrated through concrete actions and the responsibility of each individual toward the homeland.

Returning to the Ancestral Land, people bring offerings and heartfelt incense to express the spirit of 'When drinking water, remember its source.

News Team