Opening of Cau Ngu Festival - National Intangible Cultural Festival 2025

Cau Ngu Festival (also known as Cau Mat Festival) is held annually at the end of the second lunar month (from February 22-24 of the lunar calendar) in Diem Pho village, Ngu Loc commune, Hau Loc district (Thanh Hoa). This is considered a long-standing traditional festival, with important and profound significance in the spiritual life and culture of the coastal area to pray for "favorable weather, calm seas" and a favorable year for the fishing season of fishermen here.

From early morning, thousands of people from Ngu Loc commune and tourists from neighboring communes were present and participated in the festival. Crowds of people jostled each other, following the procession step by step in a sacred and solemn atmosphere.

Cau Ngu Festival takes place in a vibrant atmosphere with many activities such as: palanquin procession, procession of offerings, procession and farewell of Long Chau; performance of festival drums, water music, incense offering at Ngu Loc Commune Cultural Center.

The Four Queens' palanquin (Four Holy Ladies) is one of the important palanquins that carries the beliefs and blessings of the local people of Ngu Loc. The Fisherman's palanquin is a palanquin to worship the whale god, which appeared during the Le Dynasty. This is also the main and most meaningful palanquin for coastal fishermen.

The Long Chau procession - the most sacred symbol of the Cau Ngu festival. The Long Chau is the mascot for people to entrust their aspirations for safe sailing, full holds of fish and shrimp, and a prosperous and happy life.

The sacred and solemn atmosphere during the enthronement ceremony, praying for peace and offering incense at the opening ceremony of the festival.

The festival is held with the aim of promoting the traditional cultural values ​​of Cau Ngu Festival which has been listed as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage, continuing to promote the movement "All people unite to build a cultural life", protecting, preserving and developing cultural values, meeting spiritual and cultural needs.

The festival consists of two main parts: The ceremony is solemnly organized with drum and gong opening, festival drum performance, peace praying ceremony, procession, palanquin procession, especially the Long Chau procession.

The festival takes place with exciting traditional activities, imbued with the culture of the coastal region such as: squid fishing, net weaving, chess, tug of war, art programs, etc. In 2018, the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism awarded the certificate "Certificate of Cau Ngu Festival of Ngu Loc commune as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage".

Thousands of people and tourists come to the festival, creating a bustling, joyful atmosphere.

Source: https://kinhtedothi.vn/khai-mac-le-hoi-cau-ngu-le-hoi-phi-vat-the-quoc-gia-nam-2025.html