Cultural colors converge and spread.

The first ever Cultural Festival of Ethnic Groups with Populations Under 10,000 was held in Lai Chau province with the theme "Preserving, Promoting, and Spreading the Traditional Cultural Identity of Ethnic Minorities." The festival brought together 14 ethnic groups living in 11 provinces: Lai Chau, Cao Bang , Thai Nguyen, Dien Bien, Ha Giang, Lao Cai, Yen Bai, Tuyen Quang, Nghe An, Quang Binh, and Kon Tum.

a1...jpg — Opening art program for the cultural festival of ethnic groups with populations under 10,000 people.

In her opening remarks at the festival, Ms. Trinh Thi Thuy, Deputy Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism, stated: "The festival is a beneficial and healthy playground, creating a source of inspiration for artisans, performers, and athletes who are passionate about folk art and traditional ethnic sports. The activities within the framework of the festival will create a vibrant and colorful picture of the cultural life of ethnic groups with populations under 10,000 people."

The opening art program of the festival, themed "Cultural Colors – Convergence and Dissemination," featured 150 professional performers and 450 amateur performers. The program consisted of three parts: Aspiration to Rise Up with the Great Forest; Shimmering Colors of the Great Forest; and Majestic Lai Chau – Joyful Festival.

The cultural performances showcased the rich traditions of various ethnic groups.

The unique folk songs, folk dances, and folk music, deeply rooted in the identity of various ethnic groups, along with some famous songs from provinces inhabited by ethnic minorities, aim to introduce and promote culture, beliefs, perspectives, the positive changes in life, the quintessential values in folk music and performing arts; and exquisite products crafted by women in embroidery and weaving villages, as well as by men in the art of basket weaving and handicrafts.

a4...jpg — The art program is themed "Cultural Colors – Convergence and Dissemination".

Through the art forms of folk singing, folk dancing, folk music, traditional folk theater, and humorous skits, the performances are harmoniously and skillfully combined; especially with the direct participation of artisans in the scenes along with commentary, creating a vibrant atmosphere amidst majestic nature that stimulates curiosity among a large number of locals and tourists...

At the festival, locals and tourists alike will be immersed in a vibrant atmosphere. They can also participate in many cultural and sporting activities rich in local identity, such as: a folk art festival; a traditional ethnic costume show; a traditional handicraft demonstration; performances and presentations of excerpts from traditional festivals and cultural rituals; and exhibitions showcasing and promoting local traditional culture…

Many impressive and unique performances, rich in cultural identity, were presented by ethnic groups with populations of less than 10,000 people.

At the opening ceremony, Mr. Le Van Luong, Chairman of the Lai Chau Provincial People's Committee, emphasized: "The festival is a valuable opportunity to witness and showcase the unique characteristics and cultural identities of the 14 ethnic groups from 11 provinces. It also provides an opportunity to exchange experiences, interact, and learn from each other, thereby strengthening national unity. Furthermore, it honors and promotes the core values of the fine traditional culture of the 14 ethnic groups from 11 provinces."

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