The Nghinh Ong Festival of Lai Son (Hon Son Island) is one of the most distinctive traditional celebrations of the island community in the Kien Hai Special Zone, An Giang Province. Deeply rooted in centuries-old maritime beliefs, the festival honors Cá Ông (the Whale God)—the sacred guardian of fishermen, believed to protect them during their voyages at sea.
- Festival name: Nghinh Ong Festival – Lai Son (Hon Son Island)
- Time: Annually on the 15th–16th day of the 10th lunar month
- Location: Lang Ong Nam Hai (Whale Temple), Hon Son Island
The Ceremony – Solemn and Sacred
The ceremonial part reflects the reverence and gratitude of local fishermen:
- Incense offering & prayer recitation
- Ritual worship of Nam Hai Dai Tuong Quan (the Whale God) and other sea deities
- Prayers for calm seas, safety at sea, and a prosperous fishing season
This sacred ritual symbolizes the deep spiritual connection between the islanders and the vast ocean that sustains their livelihood.
The Festivities – Vibrant and Full of Coastal Spirit
Following the solemn ceremony, Hon Son bursts into color and excitement with lively cultural activities:
- Classical Vietnamese opera (hát bội) and đờn ca tài tử performances
- Traditional boat racing
- Cooking competitions, mountain climbing, football matches
- Community gatherings and cultural exchanges among fishing families
These festive activities showcase the rich cultural life and warm hospitality of the Hon Son islanders.
Cultural Significance of the Festival
The festival originates from the ancient belief in Thần Ông (the Whale God)—the divine protector of fishermen. For the people of Hon Son, the festival is a time to:
- Give thanks to the sea
- Honor the Whale God for protection and blessings
- Pray for peace, safety, and abundant catches
- Celebrate and preserve the fishing heritage passed down through generations
The Nghinh Ong Festival is more than a spiritual event—it is a vivid cultural portrait of the deep bond between the people of Hon Son and the sea, a tradition preserved and cherished for countless years.
