Phu Quoc is known for its turquoise beaches, soft white sand, lush forests and vibrant marine life—but beyond its natural beauty, the island also preserves many long-standing spiritual traditions. Among them, the Thuy Long Thanh Mau Festival, held on the full moon of the first lunar month each year, stands out as one of the most important and sacred cultural events for local communities. This is the time when islanders honor Thuy Long Thanh Mau, the revered sea goddess believed to have been the first person to explore and cultivate Phu Quoc, protecting fishermen, guiding early settlers and blessing the island with peace and prosperity.
The festival takes place on the 15th day of the 1st lunar month, a symbolic time marking new beginnings, when locals pray for calm seas, good harvests and a fortunate year ahead. Celebrations are held at several temples dedicated to the goddess across the island, including Cua Can Temple (Dinh Ba Trong), Duong Dong Temple (Dinh Ba Ngoai) at the center of the main town, and Ham Ninh Temple, located near the famous Ham Ninh Market. Each temple carries its own legends, sacred stories and centuries-old practices passed down through generations.
According to local folklore, Thuy Long Thanh Mau was a woman of royal Khmer descent who fled political turmoil with her followers and arrived on Phu Quoc. Here, she reclaimed land, guided the early community and helped establish the foundations of island life. She is worshipped as the guardian of the sea, the protector of fishermen and the bringer of good fortune, safe voyages, abundant harvests and family harmony. Because of this, the festival is deeply meaningful—both a gesture of gratitude and a prayer for peace and prosperity.
The festival includes a series of traditional rituals. The Procession of the Goddess (Le Nghinh Ba) begins at dawn, with villagers and temple caretakers respectfully welcoming the deity amid the sound of drums and ceremonial gongs. This is followed by the Main Offering Ceremony, where locals present fruits, flowers, cakes and traditional offerings to pray for safety, good health and smooth journeys at sea. The Full Moon Ceremony of the First Month is the most solemn moment, reflecting the islanders’ devotion to the sea goddess who protects their coastal life. Depending on the temple, cultural activities such as folk singing, coastal chants, traditional theater (hat boi) and community games add to the lively, festive atmosphere.
For the people of Phu Quoc, the Thuy Long Thanh Mau Festival is more than a religious celebration—it is a cultural heritage that strengthens community bonds and honors the ancestors who shaped the island. Maintained for generations, the festival remains a vital part of local identity and spiritual life. For travelers, it offers a rare glimpse into the soul of Phu Quoc: its history, its beliefs and the heartfelt gratitude of its people toward the forces that protect their coastal homeland.
Visitors joining the festival are encouraged to dress respectfully, bring simple offerings such as flowers or incense, keep a quiet demeanor inside the temple and respect local customs. The festival can easily be combined with visits to nearby destinations like Ham Ninh Market, Cua Can Beach or Duong Dong Town.
Held only once a year, the Thuy Long Thanh Mau Festival is one of Phu Quoc’s most meaningful spiritual traditions—a symbol of gratitude, protection and deep cultural identity. If you visit Phu Quoc during the first full moon of the lunar year, don’t miss the chance to experience this beautiful ceremony and feel the true spirit of the Pearl Island.
