Thousands of pilgrims flocked to the opening ceremony on April 2 of the traditional Cau Ngu (Fish Worshipping) Festival in Ngu Loc commune, Hau Loc district, Thanh Hoa province.
Visitors to the three-day festival have an opportunity to participate in various cultural activities including a palanquin procession, lion dances, festive drum performances, chantey and duet singing as well as sporting events such as tug-of-war, xiangqi (Chinese chess) playing, competitions of squid fishing and raising the fishing net.
The festival is held annually to pray for favourable weather, a good fishing season, safe seafaring and happiness for residents in coastal areas. It was recognised as an intangible cultural heritage by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism in 2005.