What Activities Take Place During the Keo Pagoda Festival?

Are you curious about the vibrant and culturally rich Keo Pagoda Festival in Vietnam? SIXT.VN is here to guide you through this spectacular event, showcasing its unique processions, folk games, and religious rites. Discover the heart of Vietnamese tradition with us, ensuring a seamless and enriching travel experience. Explore Vietnam’s cultural festivals and plan your trip with SIXT.VN for an unforgettable adventure.

1. What is the Keo Pagoda Festival and Why is it Celebrated?

The Keo Pagoda Festival, held annually in Hà nh Thiện Village, Nam Äịnh Province, is a significant cultural and religious event. This festival honors Zen master DÆ°Æ¡ng Không Lá»™, the Holy Ancestor (Äức Thánh Tổ), and celebrates Vietnam’s rich rice-growing traditions.

The festival, celebrated in the second and ninth lunar months, is a momentous occasion for the locals. According to historical records, Zen master DÆ°Æ¡ng Không Lá»™ founded Nghiêm Quang Pagoda in 1061, later renaming it Thần Quang, also known as Keo Pagoda. This tradition plays a crucial role in the community’s yearly routine and in the minds of Hà nh Thiện inhabitants, reflecting the region’s agricultural roots and spiritual values. SIXT.VN ensures you won’t miss a moment of this cultural richness by offering comprehensive travel solutions, including comfortable transportation and curated tour packages.

2. Where and When Does the Keo Pagoda Festival Take Place?

The Keo Pagoda Festival primarily takes place in Hà nh Thiện Village, Xuân Hồng Commune, Xuân TrÆ°á»ng Ward, Nam Äịnh Province. It is celebrated twice a year, in the second and ninth lunar months.

The autumn festival, held in the ninth lunar month at the Outer Keo Pagoda (Thần Quang Tự), is the grander event, lasting several days. According to the lunar calendar, these months typically fall around September-October and February-March in the Gregorian calendar. SIXT.VN provides timely updates on festival schedules and local events, making it easier for you to plan your visit and immerse yourself in the festivities.

3. What are the Main Processions During the Keo Pagoda Festival?

The main processions during the Keo Pagoda Festival are elaborate and visually stunning events that showcase the community’s deep respect for Zen master DÆ°Æ¡ng Không Lá»™. These processions, rich in tradition and symbolism, are a central part of the festival.

• Morning Procession Ceremony: Held on the 12th and 15th days of the lunar month, this procession involves a parade around the pagoda. In the past, the procession circled the entire village, but now it is shortened to three rounds around the heritage site. The procession team, consisting of 300 people known as phù giá, dresses in beautiful attire, carrying the palanquin and flags while parading with parasols around the pond in front of the bell tower.

• Water Procession: As the procession reaches the waterside, boats join in. Ten young children are seated in two symmetrical rows on the boats, with one steering, one beating a wooden bell, waving flags, and chanting to maintain rhythm. This adds a unique and vibrant element to the procession.

  SIXT.VN offers guided tours that provide in-depth explanations of the procession’s significance, ensuring you gain a deeper understanding of this cultural spectacle.

4. What Kind of Folk Games are Played During the Keo Pagoda Festival?

The Keo Pagoda Festival is not just a religious event but also a celebration of community spirit, featuring various folk games that add to the festive atmosphere. These games provide entertainment and strengthen community bonds.

• Boat Racing: The traditional boat race of the 10 hamlets is one of the most exciting events, held on the 12th and 15th. This race commemorates Äức Thánh Tổ’s humble beginnings as a fisherman. The boats are made of lightweight wood and manned by a crew of 10, including nine rowers and one helmsman.

• Tug-of-War: A classic game of strength and teamwork, tug-of-war is a popular activity that brings villagers together in friendly competition.

• Water Puppetry: While not always a feature, water puppetry can be included in the festival’s folk performances, showcasing traditional art forms of the Red River Delta.

SIXT.VN can arrange for you to participate in these folk games, offering a hands-on experience of Vietnamese culture and traditions.

5. What Religious Rites are Performed During the Keo Pagoda Festival?

The Keo Pagoda Festival is deeply rooted in religious practices, honoring Zen master DÆ°Æ¡ng Không Lá»™ and seeking blessings for the community. These rites are performed with utmost reverence and are integral to the festival’s spiritual essence.

• Formal Worship Rituals: The festival includes several formal worship rituals, such as phục miá»u y, thánh đản, and lá»… tiá»…n Ä‘Ã n. These rituals involve offerings of incense, candles, fruit, and tea. A unique offering specific to Hà nh Thiện’s festival is bánh giầy, a local delicacy.

• Ceremonial Flag-Raising: This ritual involves raising a red silk strip with green borders, about 10 meters long and 50 centimeters wide. The ritual flagpole is linked to a parable about the transformative power of Buddhist teachings, guiding beings to abandon wrongdoing and embrace righteousness.

• Prayers for Good Fortune: Villagers pray for good fortune as the palanquin passes by, seeking blessings and protection from the Holy Ancestor.

SIXT.VN provides access to knowledgeable guides who can explain the significance of these religious rites, enriching your understanding of Vietnamese spirituality and traditions.

6. How Does the Keo Pagoda Festival Reflect Vietnam’s Agricultural Traditions?

The Keo Pagoda Festival is deeply intertwined with Vietnam’s agricultural traditions, reflecting the country’s rich history and dependence on rice cultivation. The festival incorporates various elements that pay homage to these traditions.

• Celebration of a Patron Saint: Zen master DÆ°Æ¡ng Không Lá»™ is revered not only for his religious contributions but also for his efforts in flood control and introducing traditional crafts, which helped shape local cultural values and agricultural practices.

• Boat Racing: The boat race commemorates the Holy Ancestor’s humble beginnings as a fisherman, highlighting the importance of water and fishing in the agricultural life of the Red River Delta.

• Harvest Season: The festival timing in the ninth lunar month aligns with the harvest season, offering thanks for a bountiful crop and seeking blessings for the next planting season.

SIXT.VN offers cultural tours that delve into the agricultural aspects of the festival, providing insights into how these traditions have shaped the local community and its way of life.

7. What Should Visitors Wear and Bring to the Keo Pagoda Festival?

When visiting the Keo Pagoda Festival, it’s essential to dress respectfully and be prepared for a variety of activities. Here are some guidelines on what to wear and bring to ensure a comfortable and culturally sensitive experience.

• Clothing:

  • Respectful Attire: Dress modestly, avoiding overly revealing clothing. Opt for comfortable clothing suitable for warm weather, such as lightweight cotton or linen.
  • Traditional Dress (Optional): If you wish to immerse yourself fully in the cultural experience, consider wearing traditional Vietnamese clothing like áo dài.
  • Comfortable Shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking, so comfortable shoes are a must.

• Essentials to Bring:

  • Sun Protection: Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun.
  • Insect Repellent: Mosquitoes can be prevalent, especially in the evening, so insect repellent is advisable.
  • Water Bottle: Stay hydrated by carrying a reusable water bottle.
  • Camera: Capture the vibrant processions, folk games, and religious rites.
  • Cash: While some vendors may accept cards, it’s best to have cash for smaller purchases and offerings.
  • Umbrella/Raincoat: Be prepared for sudden rain showers.

• Cultural Sensitivity:

  • Offerings: If you plan to participate in religious rites, small offerings like incense or fruit are appropriate.
  • Respectful Behavior: Be mindful of local customs and traditions. Avoid loud or disruptive behavior, especially in sacred areas.

SIXT.VN provides pre-departure information packs that include detailed advice on what to wear and bring, ensuring you are fully prepared for the Keo Pagoda Festival.

8. Are There Any Specific Etiquette Tips for Attending the Keo Pagoda Festival?

Attending the Keo Pagoda Festival is a unique opportunity to experience Vietnamese culture, but it’s essential to be aware of local customs and etiquette to show respect. Here are some specific etiquette tips to keep in mind:

• Dress Modestly: As mentioned earlier, dress respectfully, avoiding revealing clothing. This shows reverence for the sacred nature of the festival and the pagoda.

• Remove Shoes When Entering Sacred Areas: When entering temples or worship areas, it is customary to remove your shoes. Observe what others are doing and follow suit.

• Avoid Pointing: In Vietnamese culture, pointing at people or objects is considered impolite. Use an open hand to indicate directions or items.

• Be Quiet and Respectful: Maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor, especially during religious ceremonies. Avoid loud conversations or disruptive behavior.

• Ask Before Taking Photos: While photography is generally allowed, it’s polite to ask for permission before taking photos of individuals, especially monks or elderly people.

• Accept Food with Both Hands: If offered food or drinks, accept them with both hands as a sign of respect.

• Do Not Step Over Offerings: Be mindful not to step over offerings or religious items placed on the ground.

• Follow Local Customs: Pay attention to local customs and traditions. Observe how others behave and try to emulate their actions.

SIXT.VN offers cultural sensitivity training as part of its tour packages, helping you navigate the Keo Pagoda Festival with grace and respect.

9. What Local Food and Delicacies Should Visitors Try During the Keo Pagoda Festival?

The Keo Pagoda Festival is not only a cultural and religious experience but also a culinary adventure. Visitors have the opportunity to savor a variety of local foods and delicacies that are unique to the region.

• Bánh Giầy: This is a special offering unique to Hà nh Thiện’s festival. Bánh Giầy is a type of sticky rice cake, often filled with mung bean paste and eaten during festivals and special occasions.

• Nem Chua Rán: These fried spring rolls are a popular street food in Vietnam. They are made with fermented pork, wrapped in rice paper, and deep-fried until crispy.

• PhỲ Gạo: A local variety of rice noodles used in many dishes. Try it with stir-fried vegetables or in a flavorful broth.

• Hải Sản TÆ°Æ¡i: Being close to the coast, Nam Äịnh offers fresh seafood. Look for grilled fish, shrimp, and squid, often seasoned with local herbs and spices.

• Chè: A sweet dessert soup that comes in many varieties. Try chè bầu (pumpkin sweet soup) or chè đậu xanh (mung bean sweet soup).

• Cá Má»±c Má»™ Tôm: A unique local dish made with squid stuffed with shrimp paste, steamed, and served with a flavorful sauce.

SIXT.VN can guide you to the best local eateries and food stalls during the festival, ensuring you get an authentic taste of Vietnamese cuisine.

10. How Can SIXT.VN Help Plan a Trip to the Keo Pagoda Festival?

Planning a trip to the Keo Pagoda Festival can be an exciting but daunting task. SIXT.VN offers a range of services to make your journey seamless and enjoyable, catering to all your travel needs.

• Comprehensive Travel Solutions: SIXT.VN provides end-to-end travel solutions, including transportation, accommodation, and curated tour packages.

• Airport Transfers: Ensure a smooth start to your trip with SIXT.VN’s reliable airport transfer services, picking you up from the airport and taking you directly to your hotel.

• Hotel Bookings: Choose from a wide range of hotels that suit your budget and preferences. SIXT.VN offers options from budget-friendly accommodations to luxury hotels.

• Guided Tours: Enhance your festival experience with knowledgeable guides who can provide in-depth explanations of the processions, folk games, and religious rites.

• Customized Itineraries: SIXT.VN can create customized itineraries based on your interests and schedule, ensuring you make the most of your time at the Keo Pagoda Festival.

• Local Insights: Get insider tips and recommendations on the best places to visit, eat, and shop in Hà nh Thiện Village and Nam Äịnh Province.

• 24/7 Support: SIXT.VN offers 24/7 customer support to assist you with any queries or issues that may arise during your trip.

With SIXT.VN, you can relax and enjoy the Keo Pagoda Festival, knowing that all your travel arrangements are taken care of.

Ready to experience the Keo Pagoda Festival? Contact SIXT.VN today to book your airport transfer, find the perfect hotel, or arrange a guided tour. Let us help you create an unforgettable journey into the heart of Vietnamese culture!
Address: 260 Cau Giay, Hanoi, Vietnam. Hotline/Whatsapp: +84 986 244 358. Website: SIXT.VN.

FAQ About Keo Pagoda Festival

1. What is the Keo Pagoda Festival?

The Keo Pagoda Festival is an annual event held in Hà nh Thiện Village, Nam Äịnh Province, Vietnam, to honor Zen master DÆ°Æ¡ng Không Lá»™, celebrate local culture, and showcase Vietnam’s agricultural traditions.

2. When does the Keo Pagoda Festival take place?

The festival is celebrated twice a year, in the second and ninth lunar months, typically around September-October and February-March in the Gregorian calendar.

3. Where is the Keo Pagoda Festival held?

The festival takes place in Hà nh Thiện Village, Xuân Hồng Commune, Xuân TrÆ°á»ng Ward, Nam Äịnh Province, specifically at the Keo Pagoda (Thần Quang Tá»±).

4. What are the main activities during the Keo Pagoda Festival?

The main activities include processions, folk games such as boat racing and tug-of-war, and religious rites, including formal worship rituals and a ceremonial flag-raising.

5. What should I wear when attending the Keo Pagoda Festival?

Dress modestly and respectfully, avoiding revealing clothing. Comfortable shoes are a must, as you’ll be doing a lot of walking.

6. Are there any etiquette tips I should know before attending?

Remove shoes when entering sacred areas, avoid pointing, maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor, and ask before taking photos of individuals.

7. What local foods should I try during the festival?

Try bánh giầy (sticky rice cake), nem chua rán (fried spring rolls), and fresh seafood, all of which are local delicacies.

8. How can SIXT.VN help me plan my trip to the Keo Pagoda Festival?

SIXT.VN offers comprehensive travel solutions, including airport transfers, hotel bookings, guided tours, customized itineraries, and 24/7 support.

9. Is it necessary to speak Vietnamese to enjoy the Keo Pagoda Festival?

While it’s helpful to know some basic Vietnamese phrases, it’s not necessary. SIXT.VN’s guided tours provide translation and cultural insights to enhance your experience.

10. Can I participate in the folk games during the festival?

Yes, visitors are often welcome to participate in folk games like tug-of-war and cheer on the boat racing teams. Check with local organizers for specific opportunities.