Mong culture comes alive at Xim Vang festival

The People’s Committee of Xim Vang commune on January 23 organised the Mong Ethnic Culture Festival 2026, drawing large crowds of local residents and visitors.

A representative of the organising committee presents commemorative flags to competing teams. 

The cultural performance by Hang Chu hamlet.

The festival featured a rich lineup of activities steeped in cultural identity. Opening the festival was an inter-hamlet arts competition, bringing together eight teams whose performances praised the Party and President Ho Chi Minh, expressed love for homeland and country, and celebrated the centuries-old cultural traditions of the Mong community in Xim Vang.

Contestants showcase traditional Mong ethnic costumes.

The festival also included competitions in traditional attire and banh day (round glutinous rice cake) pounding. In the costume contest, eight teams - each represented by two contestants - presented Mong ethnic dress in both its original form and contemporary interpretations. The banh day pounding contest saw three teams compete, drawing large crowds of local residents who gathered to watch and cheer.

The banh day pounding competition.

The judging panel evaluates the competitions

Among the most vibrant highlights of the festival were competitions in traditional sports such as tug of war, stick pushing and crossbow shooting. Set against a festive, high-spirited atmosphere and cheered on by enthusiastic spectators, contestants delivered tense and captivating matchups, competing with full commitment in pursuit of top honours for their teams.

A stick-pushing competitions at the festival
A tug-of-war competition at the festival

Local residents take part in pao throwing at the festival.

The festival was held to promote cultural and art activities as well as sports, strengthen solidarity and exchanges among hamlets, and create a joyful atmosphere during the traditional Lunar New Year. It also aimed to showcase local cultural identity while helping boost tourism development in the area.

The Mong Ethnic Culture Festival in Xim Vang commune draws large crowds of local residents.

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