Nghinh Ong festival recognised as intangible cultural heritage

(Cinet)- The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism has recognized the annual Nghinh Ong (Whale Worshiping) Festival held in Can Gio District in Ho Chi Minh City as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage.

It usually takes place on the fifteenth day of the eighth lunar month in Ho Chi Minh City's coastal district of Can Gio.

Fishermen believe that whales rescue people in distress at sea and accompany them to safety.

Festival is also a time for them to pray for peace, prosperity, and happiness for the whole community.

Nghinh Ong is also celebrated in other coastal provinces around the country.

Others recognised as intangible cultural heritages include the Vinh Nghiem Pagoda festival in the northern province of Bac Giang , the Phu Day festival in northern Nam Dinh province , the Ba Trao singing in central Quang Nam province and the sedge mat weaving trade in the southern province of Dong Thap.