The Go Dong Da Festival, one of Hanoi’s largest and most important festivals, is not only an occasion to commemorate the glorious victory of King Quang Trung and the Tay Son army against the Qing invaders but also an opportunity for Vietnamese people to revisit the tradition of patriotism, martial spirit, and the aspiration for peace. This festival, with its solemn rituals and unique cultural activities, has become a cultural symbol, an attractive destination for domestic and international tourists every Lunar New Year, and contributes to educating younger generations about the nation’s heroic history.
A Glimpse into the Go Dong Da Festival
History of Formation and Development
The Go Dong Da Festival is associated with the historic Ngoc Hoi – Dong Da victory in the spring of Ky Dau year (1789). This was a decisive battle that defeated the Qing invaders, maintaining the nation’s independence. To commemorate the great merits of King Quang Trung – Nguyen Hue and the Tay Son soldiers who sacrificed for the country, the people of Hanoi built temples and organized festivals annually at Go Dong Da.
Over time, the Go Dong Da festival has expanded in scale and enriched in content. From a local festival, it has become a cultural event of great influence, attracting the attention of a large number of people and tourists.
Profound Cultural and Historical Significance
The Go Dong Da Festival is not only an occasion to remember the past but also an opportunity to affirm the good cultural and historical values of the nation. The festival is a symbol of patriotism, indomitable will, national pride, and the aspiration for peace.
Through festival activities, people have the opportunity to recall the tradition of fighting against foreign invaders and express gratitude to those who have contributed to the country. At the same time, the festival is also an occasion to educate younger generations about the nation’s heroic history, awaken patriotism, and raise awareness of responsibility to the community.
Colorful costumes at the Go Dong Da Festival
Time and Location of the Festival
The Go Dong Da Festival takes place on the 5th day of the Lunar New Year annually. The main location of the festival is at the Go Dong Da Relic Site, located in Quang Trung ward, Dong Da district, Hanoi.
On this day, thousands of people and tourists from all over flock to Go Dong Da to participate in the festival, creating an extremely bustling and solemn atmosphere.
Main Rituals and Activities in the Go Dong Da Festival
The Go Dong Da Festival is divided into two main parts: the ceremony and the hội (festival activities).
Ceremony Part: Solemn Rituals, Remembering Meritorious Deeds
The ceremony part of the Go Dong Da Festival includes solemn rituals, expressing respect and gratitude to King Quang Trung and national heroes. The main rituals include:
- Kiệu procession: The palanquin of King Quang Trung and Queen Ngoc Han is carried from Khuong Thuong communal house to Go Dong Da. The procession moves slowly, with formal attire, creating a dignified and solemn scene.
- Incense offering ceremony: Delegates and people offer incense at the temple of King Quang Trung to commemorate his merits.
- Reading the eulogy: The eulogy is read to recall the glorious victories of King Quang Trung and the Tay Son army, and to praise the patriotism and indomitable will of the nation.
- siêu cầu ritual (Releasing souls): The siêu cầu ritual is held at Boc Pagoda and Dong Quang Pagoda to pray for the heroic martyrs who sacrificed for the country and the war dead.
Hội Part: Historical Reenactment, Unique Folk Games
The hội part of the Go Dong Da festival brings a joyful and bustling atmosphere with many unique cultural and sports activities. The main activities include:
- Reenactment of the Ngoc Hoi – Dong Da battle: The reenactment of the historical battle is elaborately and grandly staged, helping viewers better visualize the glorious victory of the Tay Son army.
- Lion and dragon dance: Lion and dragon troupes perform flexible and beautiful dances, bringing a joyful and excited atmosphere to the festival.
Drum performance at the opening ceremony of Go Dong Da Festival
- Martial arts performances: Martial artists perform skillful martial arts displays, showing the martial spirit of the nation.
- Folk games: Tug of war, chicken fighting, human chess, and many other folk games are organized for people and tourists to participate in, creating a joyful and community-bonding atmosphere.
Cultural Values and Contemporary Significance of the Go Dong Da Festival
The Go Dong Da Festival is not only an important historical and cultural event of Hanoi but also a symbol of the Vietnamese spirit. The festival brings us valuable lessons about patriotism, indomitable will, solidarity, and the aspiration for peace.
In the current context, as the country is on the path of development and international integration, preserving and promoting traditional cultural values such as the Go Dong Da Festival becomes even more important. The festival helps us consolidate national cultural identity, enhance pride and awareness of responsibility to the community, and contribute to building a civilized and prosperous society.
Dragon dance performance at Go Dong Da Festival, anticipated by many visitors
Tips for Participating in the Go Dong Da Festival
To have a complete experience at the Go Dong Da Festival, you should note a few things:
- Time: You should arrive early in the morning on the 5th day of the Lunar New Year to be able to fully participate in the rituals and activities of the festival.
- Dress code: You should dress politely and discreetly to show respect for traditional rituals.
- Transportation: You should use public transport or motorbike taxis, taxis to avoid traffic jams.
- Dining: You should enjoy Hanoi’s specialties at eateries around the festival area.
- Security: You should be careful to protect personal belongings to avoid pickpocketing or theft.
Conclusion
The Go Dong Da Festival is an attractive cultural destination, bringing visitors memorable experiences about Vietnamese history, culture, and people. If you have the opportunity to visit Hanoi during the Lunar New Year, do not miss the opportunity to participate in the Go Dong Da Festival to feel the heroic atmosphere of history and immerse yourself in the unique cultural activities of the nation. What do you think about joining the Go Dong Da Festival with family and friends in the upcoming Tet holiday?