Every year, as the spring approaches, Bac Ninh becomes vibrant with the festive atmosphere of its traditional festivals. These celebrations consistently attract a multitude of international visitors and serve as a source of local pride. Among the prominent festivals is the Lim festival, held on the 12th and 13th of the first lunar month in Tien Du district. The Lim festival is a remarkable cultural and artistic event deeply rooted in the long-standing traditional culture of the northern region, with Quan ho folk songs embodying the shared cultural heritage of the Vietnamese people, representing the poetic folk music of the Northern region.
The beat of the Lim festival drums resonated through Hong An pagoda on February 2, 2023 (12th day of the first lunar month in the Year of the Rabbit).

Celebrating the vibrant cultural tapestry of the Kinh Bac region, the Lim festival is a testament to the enduring spirit of Vietnamese traditions, captivating both locals and visitors alike with its lively performances and cultural richness.
The Lim festival comprises solemn ritual ceremonies alongside spiritual activities, symbolizing the reverence of future generations for the ancestors of Quan ho melodies. The festival section attracts considerable attention from tourists with its rich folk games such as cooking competitions, wrestling, chess, swings, cockfighting, etc. A highlight is the Quan ho singing between elder brothers and sisters, aboard a dragon-shaped boat adorned with gold leaf, departing from the shore amidst heartfelt verses, facing young children in traditional attire. The elder brothers stand or sit at both ends of the boat. The sweet melodies of folk songs are eagerly awaited by the audience. In the past, the Lim festival was also an occasion for young men and women in the region to make acquaintances and form relationships. Nowadays, the festival has become a destination for tourists seeking luck and prosperity at the beginning of the lunar new year.

The area of Vân Tương Harmonious Lake with its melodious Quan ho tunes, showcasing the camaraderie of elder brothers and sisters during the festival.
The Lim festival is not only the pride of the people of Lim region but has also become an integral part of Bac Ninh - Kinh Bac cultural activities. When mentioning the Lim festival, one immediately thinks of Bac Ninh immersed in smooth Quan ho melodies and camaraderie. Visitors flock to the Lim festival to listen to Quan ho singing and learn about the Quan ho cultural activities at a regional-scale festival.
Bac Ninh presents an exhibition titled 'Portraits of Heroic Armed Forces in Bac Ninh Province' featuring Phuc Dang.
Posted by: Hai Nguyen Huu
Keywords: Bac Ninh: Lim Festival - The Essence of Kinh Bac Cultural Identity
