The Muong Thang newcrop festival, also called the ploughing festival, includes the ritual and festive activities. The rituals take place at the shrine of Dong Nhat hamlet, where the village’s tutelary gods are worshipped. They include the palanquin procession from the shrine to the place where the festival is held and vice versa. The procession is solemnly held with flags, parasols and offerings with the participation of the elderly, monks and crowds of local people.
The festive activities include folk games such as ‘con’ ball throwing, duck catching and other sports, as well as a singing contest, gong and folk music performances which are deeply imbued with the Muong people’s cultural identity.
The festival offers a chance for locals to express their gratitude towards and respect for gods who contributed to forming the Muong land. Through the festival, local residents pray for a happy and successful New Year, with positive achievements in socio-economic development.
It is also a good opportunity for Muong Thang people to meet and join together in exchange activities, thus tightening the solidarity in the community./.
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