The dazzling night festival on Dau Do Son Island.

(PLVN) - Amidst the vast expanse of sea and sky in Do Son, in the last days of March, the 2026 Do Son Island Festival shines brightly, attracting pilgrims and tourists from all over to the "spiritual island" in the middle of the ocean.

At exactly 11 PM on March 27th, and into the early morning of March 28th, as night fell, the main incense offering ceremony was officially held on Dau Island in a solemn and well-organized atmosphere, combined with many unique cultural activities, attracting a large number of local people and tourists from all over to participate.

The main incense offering ceremony was officially held in a solemn and well-organized atmosphere, combined with distinctive cultural activities.

In the shimmering light of hundreds of lamps, the sounds of bells and drums blend with the lapping waves, creating a mystical and sacred atmosphere amidst the sea and sky of Do Son. A stream of devout people respectfully make their way to the Nam Hai Than Vuong temple, offering incense and expressing their wishes for a year of favorable weather, safe voyages, and a prosperous and comfortable life.

A spectacular fireworks display lit up the sky over Dau Island.

A special highlight of the main festival night is the lantern procession and the release of paper boats at midnight – a long-standing custom deeply rooted in the culture of coastal residents. The paper boats, carrying the fishermen's wishes, gently float on the water's surface in the shimmering reflected light, creating a scene that is both sacred and poetic.

The ritual of carrying lanterns and releasing paper boats at midnight carries the prayers of the people of Do Son and tourists.

Interspersed within the ceremonial part are performances of folk songs and chants, traditional melodies echoing in the sea breeze, further highlighting the cultural and spiritual depth of the festival.

The festival attracts a large number of local people and visitors from other places.

Not only locals, but also many tourists from neighboring provinces and cities choose the main festival night to come to Dau Island, immersing themselves in the unique religious atmosphere at the seaport. The harmony of light, sound, waves, and the reverence of the people created a truly dazzling festival night, leaving a deep impression on everyone who participated.

According to folklore and records in the "Dai Nam Nhat Thong Chi" (Comprehensive Gazetteer of Dai Nam), on the 9th day of the 2nd lunar month in 1288, fishermen discovered the body of a military general washed ashore in the area of ​​Hon Dau Island. Subsequent miraculous signs led the people to believe that this was a divine and heroic figure. Throughout the dynasties, from the Le to the Nguyen, the deity was repeatedly bestowed with titles and officially honored as "Nam Hai Than Vuong" (King of the Southern Sea), becoming a spiritual anchor for the coastal inhabitants.

Beyond its commemorative significance, the festival is closely intertwined with the religious beliefs of fishermen along the northern coast of Vietnam. People believe that a trip to the island to offer incense brings peace, prosperity, and tranquility throughout the year. Therefore, at midnight on the 9th day of the lunar month, the ritual of releasing paper boats and carrying lanterns is still maintained, as a way of expressing hopes for safe and successful voyages at sea.

Nestled in isolation amidst the open sea, Dau Island has long been considered a "sacred oasis," with its ancient primeval forest, tranquil atmosphere, and unique energy. Beside the ancient temple, the over 100-year-old Dau Island Lighthouse continues to shine its light, like the "eye of the sea," witnessing the many ups and downs of this coastal region.

A notable aspect of this year's festival is the harmonious blend of spiritual elements and community experiences. Beyond the solemn ceremonies, the festivities are rich and diverse, featuring activities such as chess tournaments, folk singing performances, and expanded ceremonial singing, all contributing to the preservation and dissemination of traditional cultural values.

In particular, the "visiting the green island for pilgrimage - bringing blessings home" model has created a new impression as tourists not only make pilgrimages but also join hands in consuming agricultural products, supporting people in the western area of ​​Hai Phong . This is an approach that is both practical and highly humane.

These days, local authorities are implementing comprehensive preparations for the festival. From landscaping and environmental sanitation to the restoration of historical sites and the improvement of infrastructure, everything is geared towards a safe and civilized festival season. The island's iconic area has also been enhanced with additional check-in points to cater to the needs of visitors who want to take photos and capture memorable moments.

In the shimmering light of the festival night, amidst the blue sea and gentle breeze, Dau Island appears both mysterious and vibrant. More than just a traditional festival, it is also a journey back to the roots of belief, where people entrust their faith before the vast ocean… and upon returning, carry with them a simple sense of peace.

Source: https://baophapluat.vn/lung-linh-dem-hoi-dao-dau-do-son.html