Forget modern New Year’s celebrations—Vietnam has been throwing the ultimate ancestral tribute for thousands of years! Welcome to the Hung Kings’ Festival, an epic mix of history, traditions, and, of course, an overwhelming amount of food. It’s like Thanksgiving, but instead of turkey, you get glutinous rice cakes and a deep dive into Vietnam’s legendary past.
If you love a festival that combines patriotism, folklore, and feasting, then grab your bags (and your appetite) because this is one Vietnamese holiday you won’t want to miss!
Who Were the Hung Kings, and Why Are We Partying for Them?
The Hung Kings were the founding fathers of Vietnam, ruling over Van Lang, the country’s first kingdom, more than 4,000 years ago. Think of them as Vietnam’s OG kings—the guys who kick-started civilization, taught people how to farm, and probably would have gone viral if they had TikTok.
To honor their legacy, the Hung Kings’ Festival (Giỗ Tổ Hùng Vương) takes place on the 10th day of the 3rd lunar month every year, with the biggest celebrations happening at the Hung Kings Temple in Phu Tho Province. The best part? It’s a public holiday, meaning the entire country joins in on the fun!
What to Expect at the Hung Kings’ Festival
1. The Grand Procession
Imagine a parade, but with traditional costumes, dragon dances, and solemn ancestral rituals. Pilgrims and officials make their way up to the Hung Kings Temple on Nghia Linh Mountain, carrying incense, flowers, and offerings. It’s a beautiful (and slightly intense) tribute to Vietnam’s ancestors.
Want to blend in? Grab a traditional áo dài and follow the crowd—but be ready for a lot of steps up the mountain!
2. Bánh Chưng vs. Bánh Giầy: The Ultimate Food Rivalry
The Hung Kings’ Festival isn’t just about ceremonies—it’s also about eating like a royal. The star dishes?
- Bánh Chưng – a square, sticky rice cake packed with pork and mung beans, symbolizing the Earth.
- Bánh Giầy – a round, smooth rice cake, representing the sky.
Legend has it that these cakes won Vietnam’s first cooking competition, proving that food has always been serious business here.
3. The Games: Where Strength Meets Tradition
If you think festivals are just about sightseeing, think again! The Hung Kings’ Festival is packed with traditional competitions that will leave you amazed (or laughing, depending on your athletic skills).
- Rice-cooking contests – Yes, there’s an actual sport for this. Competitors try to cook the perfect rice over an open flame while balancing on one foot. (Not for the faint-hearted.)
- Wrestling matches – Think sumo, but Vietnamese-style. If you love action, don’t miss this!
- Tug of war & bamboo swings – Because nothing says “festival fun” like a little friendly competition.
4. Fireworks & Festivities
No major Vietnamese celebration is complete without fireworks, folk performances, and a whole lot of singing and dancing. Expect traditional Chèo (folk opera) and Xoan singing, an ancient art form so unique that it’s UNESCO-recognized!
And if you’re lucky, you might just catch the grand lion dances and cultural showcases, featuring performers from all over Vietnam.
Why You Should Experience the Hung Kings’ Festival
This isn’t just another festival—it’s Vietnamese history coming to life. Whether you’re there for the legends, the rituals, or just the excuse to eat bánh chưng all day, you’ll walk away with a deeper appreciation for Vietnam’s rich culture.
So, what are you waiting for?
👉 Book your Vietnam adventure today at Vietnam Packages Tour and witness this legendary festival in person!
