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Hoi An Lunar New Year 2024: Tra Que village in Hoi An observes the annual Spring Festival (Lễ Cầu Bông or Cau Bong Festival) as a cherished tradition. This event is dedicated to honoring and commemorating the achievements of ancestors who founded this time-honored vegetable village over four centuries ago.
Spring Festival in Tra Que Village on Lunar New Year Holiday
On the 7th day of the first lunar month (February 16, 2024) in Tra Que vegetable village, Hoi An, a vibrant ceremony unfolds to usher in the spring season. The ritual aims to invoke blessings for a year filled with favorable weather, abundant harvests, and prosperity in the homes of the villagers. Rooted in Vietnamese traditions, this ceremony is a symbolic gesture to attract positive aspects into life.
The festivities commence with the Nghinh Than Ceremony, featuring a procession of offerings parading through Tra Que village, culminating in a ceremonial gathering at the main hall of the central yard. Locally renowned products, including lilies, chrysanthemums, herbs, cilantro, basil, are presented as tokens of reverence and gratitude to the wise ancestors who pioneered the fertile land, establishing the renowned Tra Que vegetable industry centuries ago.
Following the offerings conducted by seasoned farmers, representatives from the village hamlets engage in the “Village Women Good at Housekeeping” contest. This competition showcases the culinary prowess of the participants as they prepare the specialty dish of Tam Huu shrimp (featuring shrimp, meat, and fresh vegetables), unique to the village. Additionally, the “Fast Hands, Proficient Skills” contest challenges participants to demonstrate their expertise in the intricate art of vegetable cultivation.
It’s worth noting that Tra Que vegetable farming achieved recognition as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage on April 4, 2022. This acknowledgment underscores the cultural significance and historical legacy of this age-old tradition in the heart of Vietnam.
Unveiling the History of Tra Que Village
The origins of Tra Que Vegetable Village trace back approximately 300 years when it was christened by King Gia Long of the Nguyen Dynasty. Captivated by the distinct aroma reminiscent of tea and cinnamon from the local vegetable specialty, the king bestowed the name “Tra Que” upon this picturesque locale. In its earlier days, the village was known as Nhu Que, a nod to the fragrant vegetables thriving in the community.
Home to over 40 varieties of vegetables, Tra Que Vegetable Village stands out for its exceptional herbs. The vegetables cultivated here boast a unique fragrance and an unmistakable taste that distinguishes them from others.
Annually, Tra Que Vegetable Village contributes tens of tons of diverse vegetables to the market, proving to be a lucrative source of income for over 200 households engaged in vegetable cultivation. Beyond its agricultural significance, the village has become a magnet for tourists seeking to explore and partake in the immersive experience of vegetable growing.
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Hoi An Lunar New Year 2024: Additional Festivities
According to the Hoi An City People’s Committee, a series of special events will unfold before, during, and after the Lunar New Year of Dragon to delight both the local community and tourists.
From February 2 to 9, the vibrant Spring Flower Festival will grace the roads in the inner city area. Meanwhile, the Thanh Hoa library will host the Spring Press Conference, spanning from February 1 to 7 and continuing from February 15 to 27.
As the Lunar New Year Eve approaches, the old town area will come alive with an Anison music performance, a spring ceremony, and an engaging New Year art program.
In conjunction with the Spring Festival at Tra Que Village, several cherished traditions endure, including New Year tree planting festivals, the commemoration of carpentry founder Kim Bong’s death anniversary, the Full Moon festival, and the Cam Nam sticky corn festival.
Throughout Hoi An Lunar New Year 2024, the ancient town area will buzz with a myriad of activities, including creative corners and installation art spaces, street music exchanges, folk games, and opera performances. The diverse array of events promises to captivate visitors and add a vibrant touch to the Tet celebrations in Hoi An.
