The 3rd San Chay Ethnic Culture Festival took place on December 20-21 in Ba Che district’s Thanh Son commune with a variety of attractive cultural and sports activities.
The festival brings a lot of joy to everyone and helps the younger generation arouse a greater appreciation for their own cultural traditions.
The San Chay Ethnic Culture Festival comprised many attractive activities such as the re-enactment of the harvest ritual, the traditional wedding of the San Chay people, the performance of Banh Giay making practices, Cooc Mo cake wrapping, culinary contest, tug of war, long throw, stick push, air volleyball, art performance, etc.
The San Chay ethnic group, also known as Cao Lan or San Chi, is one of the 54 recognized ethnic groups in Vietnam. They are known for their unique cultural identity, rich traditions, and lifestyle that has been preserved for generations. In Ba Che district, Quang Ninh province, the San Chay people form a vibrant part of the local community.
The San Chay ethnic group in Ba Che district includes two groups: Cao Lan and San Chi. This is the fourth largest ethnic group in the total of 14 ethnic groups of people living in the district.
The bride-fetching ceremony of the San Chay people obtains unique features. As the groom's procession approaches the bride's house, the bride's family places several plates along the path. The matchmaker from the groom's side then places one sticky rice cake on each plate, symbolizing a wish for prosperity and abundance.The radiant smile of the bride (standing in front) on her wedding day.After the groom's family completes the bride-fetching ceremony at the bride's house and escorts her back, the groom (the one holding the first umbrella) walks with the groomsmen, while the bride walks with the bridesmaids. This arrangement symbolizes the bride's purity until she arrives at her husband's home.The mother-in-law leads the bride around the house on her first day at her new home, highlighting the distinctive kitchen of the San Chay people.The festival also features various activities such as a sticky rice cake pounding competition.A culinary platter competition.The blindfolded duck-catching gameThe husband guides his wife in participating in the crossbow shooting activity during the festival.
