The God Fish Procession

This traditional festival, deeply rooted in history, is celebrated by the Muong people in the scenic God Fish Stream area. The event occurs annually on the 8th and 9th days of January according to the lunar calendar, which is why it is also known as the Spring Beginning Festival. This occasion serves as a heartfelt expression of reverence to the Gods and offers prayers for another year filled with success, prosperity, and hope. As a result, it attracts not only local residents but also visitors from surrounding regions.

Like many other festivals in Vietnam, this procession consists of two main components: the rites and the festivities. The ritual begins with the ceremonial catching of a god fish from the stream. This fish is then transported from the stream to the area’s stadium for the opening ceremony. Following this, community members share their accomplishments from the previous year with the Gods while praying for another fruitful year ahead. In contrast to the formal rites, the festival aspect is much more lively and includes a variety of traditional activities such as stilt walking, crossbow shooting, and traditional drama performances. These engaging activities create a vibrant and festive atmosphere, filled with the sounds of traditional instruments, providing residents and visitors alike a chance to unwind before the new season. This annual event is truly a must-visit when traveling to Thanh Hoa.