Spring festivals illuminate the highlands of Tuyen Quang

Each spring, Tuyen Quang, home to more than 20 ethnic groups, comes alive with vibrant traditional festivals. From lowland areas to remote mountain villages, diverse cultural colors blend harmoniously, creating a rich tapestry of heritage that attracts both locals and visitors.

The Lo Lo people welcome spring in a simple and heartwarming way.

Traditional costumes stand out as a highlight of the festive season. At the Long Tong (field-going) Festival celebrated by Tay, Nung, Dao and San Chi communities, Tay women in indigo long dresses embody grace and elegance. For Mong women, brightly embroidered skirts and dresses, painstakingly handcrafted, are proudly worn during spring celebrations, reflecting patience and artistry.

During the Fire Jumping Festival of the Pa Then people, vivid red traditional attire enhances the sacred and mystical atmosphere. Pa Then women learn weaving and embroidery from an early age to prepare garments for important occasions. Meanwhile, Red Dao women in various localities continue to preserve their intricate embroidery traditions, spending months completing costumes adorned with symbolic silver jewelry.

In contrast to the lively festivities elsewhere, the Lo Lo people welcome spring with a simple yet solemn Rain Praying Festival, held to wish for favorable weather and abundant harvests. Bronze drums, sacred symbols of the universe and humanity, play a central role in the rituals.

Young girls from Lam Binh in traditional costumes attend the Long Tong Festival.

Other notable events include the Khau Vai Love Market Festival, the Gau Tao Festival of the Mong people, and the Cap Sac initiation ceremony of the Dao community. These celebrations carry profound human values, serving both as sacred rituals and opportunities for social gathering and cultural exchange at the start of the new year. Beyond community activities, the festivals contribute to promoting Tuyen Quang’s distinctive cultural identity.

In recent years, the province’s tourism sector has earned prestigious regional and international accolades, including recognition of Lo Lo Chai Village as one of the “Best Tourism Villages in the World 2025.” The achievements reflect sustained efforts to preserve cultural heritage while advancing sustainable tourism.

Each spring, amid the resounding festival drums and the vibrant hues of brocade costumes, Tuyen Quang dons a renewed and colorful identity, affirming the enduring vitality of its highland culture.

Le Duy