The Muong ethnic group's Khai Ha Festival in Tan Lang commune, also known as the "Going Down to the Fields" or "Opening the Forest," is the largest traditional folk festival of the Muong people in Tan Lang commune and neighboring communes. The ceremonial part includes a procession from the village chief's house to the temple. A feast is prepared with a variety of fruits, pork, rice, wine, and other food items produced by the local people. These offerings are neatly arranged, and the shaman performs rituals to worship the gods according to ancient Muong customs. Afterward, the people perform the ritual of going down to the fields to plow. The festival rituals are closely linked to wet-rice agriculture, bearing many hallmarks of ancient Vietnamese civilization, expressing reverence for the deities, commemorating those who contributed to the founding of the land and the Muong community, and praying for the flourishing of all things, a bountiful harvest, and a prosperous and happy life.

Mr. Ha Van Rung, Party Branch Secretary and Head of Mo Village, Tan Lang Commune, Phu Yen District, Son La Province:"This festival is a traditional festival that has existed for generations, praying for a year of favorable weather and a bountiful harvest, and the people are very enthusiastic and participate fully."

Throughout the ups and downs of history, the Khai Ha festival has become deeply ingrained in the consciousness of the Muong community in Tan Lang commune. The festival is also associated with the custom of courtship between young men and women at Hang Vang cave, and is preserved by the people of the Muong villages, especially the people of Mo village, who maintain many traditional values. It is a place where many cultural and historical heritages converge, attracting a large number of local people and tourists to participate each festival season.

Ms. Ha Thi Hay, Mo village, Tan Lang commune, Phu Yen district, Son La province:"I am a resident of Mo village and I am very happy and excited that the Party and the State are paying attention to this Khai Ha Festival. I hope that this Khai Ha Festival will be maintained and organized annually at the commune, district, and provincial levels."

In 2013, with the assistance of the Vietnam Folk Arts Association, the Khai Ha Festival and the custom of playing Hang Vang (Golden Cave) were restored, preserved, and maintained by the people of Mo village, Tan Lang commune, and have been organized until now. The Khai Ha Festival is held annually on the 7th day of the first lunar month. It is a community-based event with many unique cultural and artistic activities, as well as culinary competitions and exciting folk games among the Muong men and women of the commune.

Mr. Dinh Trong Thach, Muong Thai commune, Phu Yen district, Son La province:"I am very proud that my hometown has a place and a festival that embodies the unique cultural identity of the Muong ethnic group. My first impression upon arriving here was one of pristine beauty, and I promise that in 2025 I will come back and spend more time at this place."

The annual Khai Ha Festival of the Muong ethnic group in Tan Lang commune contributes to educating about patriotic traditions and national pride, thereby promoting historical and cultural values, raising awareness in preserving and promoting the cultural identity of ethnic groups; and promoting Phu Yen district's tourism products to domestic and international tourists.

Source: Son La Provincial Radio and Television Station