The Xa Loc Temple Festival draws a large crowd of attendees each year

On February 7 (January 10 of the At Ty year), the Xa Loc Temple Festival took place at Xa Loc Temple in Tu Xa commune, Lam Thao district. The festival honors General Lan Ho Hau—Do Thong Dai Vuong, a skilled commander who aided King Tran in defeating the Yuan-Mongol army from 1256 to 1257.

Sacrificial rituals are performed at Xa Loc Temple.

According to legend, Xa Loc Temple is dedicated to General Lan Ho Hau, who brought peace to the nation. King Tran bestowed upon him an eight-character honorific: “Nam thiên tráng khí, Bắc khẩu hàn tâm; Công cự đệ nhất, Trưng Trắc, Trưng Nhị hà dư yên,” meaning, "The South’s heroic spirit makes Northern invaders tremble; his merit surpasses even that of Trưng Trắc and Trưng Nhị."

The Xa Loc Temple Festival attracts large crowds each year.

Each year on January 10, the people of Tu Xa commune and nearby areas hold a solemn and vibrant festival with various offerings. This is an opportunity for villagers to honor the revered General Lan Ho Hau—Do Thong Dai Vuong and present elaborate offerings, praying for blessings of health, peace, and abundant harvests for their families, clans, and the entire community.

Delegates presented incense and flowers to honor the brave General Lan Ho Hau—Do Thong Dai Vuong.

The Xa Loc Temple Festival is not only an occasion for locals to express their gratitude to the courageous and talented General Lan Ho Hau but also a reflection of the nation’s tradition: "When drinking water, remember its source." Despite historical changes, the festival has been preserved with solemn rituals, becoming a cherished spiritual and cultural tradition that strengthens community bonds.

On this occasion, Tu Xa commune also hosts various cultural, artistic, and sports activities, drawing large crowds to participate.

Bao Thoa