Massive wooden firecrackers are paraded through the village, symbolizing prosperity for the new year.
On the fourth day of the Lunar New Year, residents of Dong Ky Village (now Dong Ky Ward, Tu Son City, Bac Ninh Province) and visitors from across the country eagerly participated in the traditional firecracker procession, praying for a prosperous and fortunate year ahead.The highlight of the Dong Ky firecracker procession is a pair of enormous symbolic firecrackers, reverently referred to as “Ong Phao” (Grand Firecrackers) by the villagers. These wooden firecrackers, intricately carved and gilded, measure 6 meters in length and over 60 centimeters in diameter. Their surfaces are adorned with traditional motifs of dragons, unicorns, turtles, and phoenixes, symbolizing wishes for favorable weather and a bountiful year.As soon as the firecrackers were brought out into the courtyard of the traditional cultural house, villagers carefully cleaned them in preparation for the solemn and safe procession.The two giant firecrackers were paraded through the village streets, drawing crowds of spectators from various provinces who gathered to witness the vibrant festivities.Recognized as one of the eight cultural heritages of Bac Ninh, the Dong Ky Firecracker Procession was officially listed as a national intangible cultural heritage by the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism in 2016.Only men aged 35 to 50, in strong physical condition, are allowed to carry the firecrackers during the procession.The festival aims to preserve and promote cultural values while honoring the contributions of national heroes, cultural figures, martyrs, and those who have served the village and the country.To ensure the safety of participants and visitors, the organizing committee coordinated with law enforcement, local security forces, and other relevant agencies to set up security checkpoints along the procession route.
A festival representative shared that Dong Ky Village has a long-standing tradition of fine wood craftsmanship. The skilled artisans of the village demonstrate their exceptional talent and creativity through the design and craftsmanship of the symbolic firecrackers, which embody the rich cultural heritage of the region.
Vietnamnet.vn
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