Quang Yen Town lies along historic Bang Dang River. Local practices have been permeated with sea culture for generations. Not only practices but also spiritual heritages and production of locals by now have been well preserved.
The process of population development, villages expansion here were in the line with embankment, sea encroachment and irrigational works which molded the natural conquest tradition throughout history. Ha Nam people in Quang Yen Town are permeated with cultural activities such as dum singing, ho bien, Tien Cong festival, traditional fishing, ship and boat building; bamboo-boat making, net knitting and fishing tool making
Dum singing is actually love-exchange singing between men and women when they are working on fields, dikes or the sea. Ha Nam people have treasured their traditional arts for generations. Senior artisans now are still able to perform ancient songs. It is great to know that Dum singing is being spread and handed over to the young generation at Dum singing clubs.
The unique Tien Cong festival, taking place from lunar Jan 5 to 7, at Cam La Commune, has the core part, the procession of seniors who are over 80 years old.
Along with Tien Cong festival, Cau Ngu Festival in Tan An Ward is also featured by the sea culture. The festival sends people’s prays to the sea god for a good year and bumper crop. Distinctive cultural and art performances such as boat racing, and net knitting competition are also highlights of the festival.
Translated by Dao Linh
