Con Temple Festival

The Con Temple Festival is an annual event celebrated on the 22nd and 23rd of February. Featuring a grand parade and numerous traditional games, this festival is one of the major cultural events in Nghe An, drawing participants who are eager to observe, learn, or simply experience a unique aspect of Nghe An culture.
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According to local folklore, the story of Con Temple centers on a king named De Binh. He ascended to the throne during challenging times when powerful foreign enemies threatened his kingdom's very existence. In a swift and devastating attack, the invading army overtook the capital, forcing De Binh to abandon his city. In this moment of crisis, a loyal general assisted the king and queen in escaping on a ship, but after three days at sea, a violent storm struck, sinking the vessel and resulting in a tragic loss of life, including that of King De Binh. Only the queen and her two daughters survived and were later rescued by a monk, who sadly perished after his act of bravery. Grief-stricken, the queen chose to end her life by jumping into the ocean, with her daughters following suit shortly after. When fishermen from Con Town discovered the bodies days later, they offered them a proper burial and constructed the Con Temple in their honor.
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As a result of its deeply poignant history, the festival is organized with solemnity and meticulous preparation. The worship activities generally encompass four key ceremonies: the Yet Cao Ceremony, the Yen Vi Ceremony, the Parade from the Inner Temple to the Outer Temple, and the Parade from the Outer Temple to the Inner Temple. Notably, these parades take place both on the streets and along the beach, involving participants of all ages and genders. The parade stretches approximately 10 kilometers, moving through the areas of Quynh Phuong Village, Quynh Lien Village, and Quynh Bang Village, captivating the local inhabitants.
Following the worship rituals, the festivities commence with a variety of traditional games, including Human Chess, Chicken Fighting, Boat Racing, Volleyball, and Soccer. Additionally, attendees can enjoy local dance performances, songs, plays, and exhibitions, ensuring an unforgettable experience for all who participate.