Brian Jeffrey
On the fourth day of the Lunar New Year, a vibrant scene unfolds in Gia Vien village, Hue, where locals and tourists gather to celebrate the Du Tien festival, a cherished tradition for over 150 years.
This festival, celebrated in other Hue villages such as Quang Tho and Dien Hoa, is a vital part of the region’s cultural tapestry.
In Hue, there is a popular saying: “Three days of Tet, seven days of spring,” which signifies that the Lunar New Year is a moment for relaxation and festivities, marking the year’s initial joys.
As the festivities commence, the village elder, clad in a traditional ao dai and ceremonial headdress, initiates the opening drumbeat. The ceremony includes ritual offerings and incense burning to pay respect to the village’s deities.
Scheduled every two years on the fourth day of Tet, the Du Tien festival fosters community spirit, featuring physical contests where participants pray for favorable weather, prosperity, and abundant harvests.
In preparation for the event, organizers choose two sturdy bamboo poles to erect in the village square for swinging. Festival flags adorn the tops of these poles, and thick ropes are added at the center for the competitors’ safety.
The festival is open to all villagers, but the highlight is the flag-grabbing contest exclusively for men. Thirty strong young men, including locals and visitors, are selected to compete. Each contestant picks a number to determine their sequence in this knockout-style tournament.
As the competitors take turns, the excitement builds as the audience cheers them on, urging them to swing higher to snag the flag.
Winning requires both timing and technique; competitors harness their leg strength to gain momentum and achieve maximum height. The first individual to touch the red flag at the apex is declared the champion.
Both villagers and tourists focus intently on the action, with every daring move met with cheers and applause, intensifying the festive atmosphere.
Distinct from many competitions, the Du Tien festival recognizes multiple winners. The prizes include:
The top honor is awarded to the contestant who first touches the flag at its highest point.
Subsequent prizes go to the next three competitors who also reach for the flag.
Additionally, a special award, the ‘Breaker’ prize, honors the participant who successfully rips the flag down.
As the festival wraps up, it stands as a significant symbol of Hue’s cultural identity, uniting generations of villagers and visitors alike.
