Co Loa Temple Festival: Reviving the Au Lac spirit at the beginning of the new year

Journey to the nation's roots

Every spring, people in Dong Anh, Hanoi remember the promise in the song "If we die, we will abandon our children and grandchildren, but if we live, we will not abandon the 6th of January" to go to Co Loa Temple together. This is not only one of the biggest festivals of the year in the capital, but also a vivid journey back to the roots, to commemorate King An Duong Vuong - the one who built the Au Lac state. The festival was recognized as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2021.

The majestic procession at the Co Loa Temple Festival — Co Loa Temple Festival is one of the largest and oldest festivals in Hanoi.

The festival officially takes place from early morning on the 6th to the 18th of the first lunar month at the Co Loa historical relic site, in Dong Anh district, not far from the center of Hanoi. The festival is a common event of the cluster of 8 villages surrounding the temple, also known as Bat Xa, which worship King Thuc Phan.

Explore unique rituals and activities

The Co Loa Temple Festival is divided into two main parts: the solemn ceremony and the vibrant festival, recreating the heroic atmosphere and rich cultural life of ancient Vietnamese people.

Ceremony: Solemn and majestic ritual

The highlight of the ceremony is the grand palanquin procession that takes place on the morning of the 6th day of the Lunar New Year. The Bat Xa procession gathers at the Upper Temple to perform the ceremony to worship the gods. Leading the way are flags, fans, and the eight precious objects, followed by the eight musical instruments, soldiers, and strong men carrying the palanquin. Those participating in the ceremony must keep themselves pure, even covering their mouths with red cloth to ensure purity. The procession moves in a solemn atmosphere, reenacting the scene of King Thuc Phan returning to the court, creating a scene that is both splendid and sacred.

The palanquin was carried by strong young men in the village. — The procession is the most important and attractive ritual in the ceremony.

Festival Part: Vibrant folk cultural space

After the solemn ceremonies, the festival atmosphere becomes bustling with many cultural activities and folk games. Visitors can enjoy Quan Ho singing performances on dragon boats in the Ngoc Well area, or watch plays recreating the historical story of My Chau - Trong Thuy.

Traditional folk games are an unmissable highlight, attracting a large number of people and tourists to participate. The most prominent are wrestling, human chess and especially crossbow shooting. Crossbow shooting is not only a game but also a way for people to remember the "magic crossbow" of General Cao Lo, demonstrating martial spirit and courage to protect the country.

A folk game held within the framework of the festival — Folk games bring a joyful atmosphere and rich cultural identity.

Must-see spots at Co Loa relic site

Coming to Co Loa not only to attend the festival, visitors also have the opportunity to explore the unique historical relic complex associated with legendary stories.

Thuong Temple (An Duong Vuong Temple): Located in the center, it is the place to worship King An Duong Vuong. The temple has ancient architecture with elaborately carved stone dragons from the Le Dynasty and preserves many precious relics.
My Chau Temple: Nestled behind a thousand-year-old banyan tree, this is where Princess My Chau is worshipped. Inside the temple is a natural stone shaped like a headless human, associated with the tragic legend of the princess.
Cao Lo Temple: A small temple dedicated to the talented general who invented the Lien Chau crossbow. In front of the temple is a pond with a statue of him holding a crossbow, inside are displayed many bronze arrows excavated here.

An ancient architectural corner at Co Loa relic site — Co Loa relic site preserves many important architectural works and historical values.

Useful tips for attending festivals

Ideal time: The opening day of the festival on January 6 is the time when the most important and crowded ceremonies take place.
Getting there: From the center of Hanoi, you can easily get to Co Loa by motorbike, private car or public bus routes.
Dress: You should choose polite, neat clothes for ease of movement and to suit the solemn atmosphere of the temples.

Source: https://baolamdong.vn/le-hoi-den-co-loa-song-lai-hao-khi-au-lac-dau-nam-moi-399497.html