The Con Son - Kiep Bac Autumn Festival, one of the largest of its kind in the north of Viet Nam, commenced in northern Hai Duong province on September 10 in memory of General Tran Hung Dao – a revered historical figure.
A ceremony was held earlier that day to mark the 714th anniversary of the death of the Supreme Commander of Viet Nam under the Tran Dynasty (1225 – 1400). He led the Dai Viet (Great Viet Nam) army to victory against three major Mongolian invasions during the 13 th century, making him one of the most accomplished military strategists in world history. He passed away on August 20 (lunar calendar) in 1300 at the age of 70.
To commemorate the hero, Kiep Bac temple was built in Hai Duong province.
The temple was recognised as a national heritage site in 1962 and a special national heritage site in 2012.
On the occasion of this year’s festival, the Provincial People’s Committee announced the accomplishment of the restoration of the main place of worship at the Con Son – Kiep Bac historical site.
In addition to the opening ceremony for the restoration project, an array of traditional rituals will be performed, including peace prayers, a procession, and a military festival along Luc Dau River .
Other cultural traditions such as water puppetry, wrestling contests, rice cooking competitions and boat races will also be organised during the festival.
Last year, the Con Son-Kiep Bac Spring and Autumn Festivals were awarded national intangible cultural heritage status.