Fishermen from Ca Mau and Mekong Delta coastal provinces flocked to the 2013 Nghinh Ong (Whale Worshiping) festival, which opened on March 26 at Song Doc port in Tran Van Thoi district, Ca Mau province.
The three-day festival includes rituals performed by the local fishermen to pray for fair winds and good seas, a safe return to shore, good luck and prosperity.
Fishermen consider whales gods that will bring them a better fishing season and rescue them if they are in danger at sea.
The annual festival also offered an opportunity for fishermen to contribute to the country's development and protect its sacred sovereignty over its seas.
A variety of trade and tourism fairs were also held on the occasion, as well as cultural, artistic and sporting activities to promote Ca Mau's economic and tourism potential.