The Nguyen Trung Truc Festival is held annually on the 26th, 27th, and 28th days of the eighth lunar month at the Nguyen Trung Truc Temple in Ganh Dau. This is when locals gather to honor the national hero Nguyen Trung Truc and pay tribute to his unwavering resistance against French colonial forces in southern Vietnam. The festival carries deep spiritual and historical significance and attracts thousands of visitors each year.
At its core, the festival commemorates Nguyen Trung Truc (1837–1868), the leader of several major uprisings during the French conquest of Nam Ky. After the famed raid on Rach Gia in 1868, he withdrew to Phu Quoc with his remaining troops, continuing the fight despite being heavily pursued. To protect his soldiers from reprisals, he ultimately surrendered, embodying the ideals of bravery, loyalty, and sacrifice. For the people of Phu Quoc, Nguyen Trung Truc remains a symbol of courage and righteous patriotism.
The festival takes place at the Nguyen Trung Truc Temple in Ganh Dau, built in 1993 through the contributions of local residents. The complex includes a main sanctuary, auxiliary altars, covered corridors, and a landscaped courtyard. In 2011, it was officially recognized as a Provincial Historical and Cultural Site, further affirming its cultural importance to northern Phu Quoc.
During the three-day celebration, visitors can experience a harmonious blend of solemn rituals and lively cultural activities. The ceremonial segment includes incense offerings, memorial rites, prayer ceremonies for fallen heroes, and the reading of traditional tributes honoring Nguyen Trung Truc. The festive segment features folk performances, traditional martial arts, community games, and cultural showcases that bring together locals and travelers in a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere.
For the people of Phu Quoc, the festival is not only a day of remembrance but also an opportunity to strengthen community bonds, promote patriotic spirit, preserve local heritage, and introduce visitors to the island’s proud history. Those visiting Phu Quoc during this special time will gain a deeper understanding of the island’s role in Vietnam’s resistance movements and the enduring spirit of its coastal communities.
