Buzz
Known for its breathtaking natural landscapes and rich cultural traditions, Ninh Binh is a destination that has charmed travelers from all corners. The Ninh Binh festivals, originating from centuries past, contribute to the unique allure of this ancient land. Join Mytour to explore the scenic beauty of Ninh Binh and immerse yourself in its most outstanding festivals!
Unique Features of Ninh Binh Festivals
Once the ancient capital of feudal dynasties, Ninh Binh is considered the cradle of numerous extraordinary folk festivals preserved and celebrated to this day. Currently, the province hosts a remarkable total of 74 festivals, attracting not only locals but also domestic and international tourists.
Ninh Binh's Festivals are deeply rooted in the Vietnamese tradition of honoring ancestors, expressing gratitude to those who built and defended the nation, and fostering community bonds. They also serve as a connection with travelers, symbolizing the cultural heritage of the Vietnamese. Hence, most of these festivals are organized with great solemnity, creating a vibrant atmosphere.
For Ninh Binh tourists, these festivals act as a gateway to reverse time, reliving ancient days with historical stories, legends, and myths from the inception of Ninh Binh. It's a radiant lens to comprehend the spiritual life of the locals, their unique customs, providing an opportunity to immerse yourself in the lively and beautiful atmosphere of the Northern countryside during the most radiant and charming periods.
►Great Deals: Affordable 1-day Hanoi tour packages
Most Highlighted Festivals in Ninh Binh
1. Bai Dinh Pagoda Festival in Ninh Binh:
Bai Dinh Pagoda stands as one of the most renowned Ninh Binh tourist destinations, holding numerous records in Vietnam and Southeast Asia. Annually, the Bai Dinh Pagoda Festival takes place from the 1st day of the Lunar New Year, officially opening on the 6th day and continuing until the end of the 3rd lunar month. The Bai Dinh Pagoda Festival in Ninh Binh is an opportunity for tourists to embark on a pilgrimage, participating in peaceful prayers alongside the local people, monks, and Buddhists.
Similar to other festivals, the Bai Dinh Pagoda Festival in Ninh Binh consists of two parts: the ritual procession with elaborate parades and the incense offering to the Buddha, and the festival. After the ceremony, visitors can engage in lively folk games or enjoy traditional performances like ca tru singing, cheo art, or the unique style of xam singing, all deeply rooted in the ancient capital's cultural identity.
►Tet Promotions: Affordable 4-day Hanoi - Ha Giang - Cao Bang tour
2. Truong Yen Festival:
Truong Yen Festival (also known as Hoa Lu Festival in Ninh Binh) is considered the largest festival in the province, alongside Bai Dinh Pagoda Festival. Annually, from the 8th to the 10th day of the 3rd lunar month, people from all over flock to Hoa Lu, Ninh Binh to immerse themselves in the Truong Yen Festival. With the main purpose of commemorating the contributions of the Dinh and Early Le dynasties in nation-building, the festival features solemn rituals such as the water procession and ceremonial offerings.
The water procession takes place in the tranquil surroundings of Trang An, with boats paddling along the Hoang Long River, echoing the distinctive sounds of horns and drums. The procession carries sacred water on a palanquin, starting from the Dinh Temple, collecting water, conducting ceremonies on the Hoang Long River, and returning to the temple for the ritual.
Amidst the dark night, the temples of King Dinh and King Le are illuminated by a solemn ritual performance. Elderly members of the village are chosen as chief priests to perform the nine rituals. The ceremony concludes with pilgrims participating in festive activities, offering incense, releasing lanterns, or joining traditional folk games such as human chess, tug of war, lion dance, and cockfighting.
►Book Now: 3 Days 2 Nights Co To Island Tour
3. Ninh Binh Christmas Festival:
Christmas time is a wonderful period for Northern Vietnam tourism with its cool atmosphere and vibrant festive season. Visitors to Ninh Binh during this festival cannot miss Phat Diem Cathedral. Already acclaimed as the most beautiful Catholic structure in Vietnam for its unique stone and lim wood architecture, the cathedral becomes even more enchanting with warm Christmas lights.
Christmas celebration takes place on the night of the 24th and the day of the 25th of December every year, but you can visit and admire the decorated cathedral from early December. Even if you don't attend the church service, you can still feel the Christmas spirit through impressive and entertaining cultural performances held in the cathedral's courtyard.
