This morning, March 15th, as part of the activities of the Son La City Ban Flower Festival, the "Xen Muong" ritual was reenacted and Thai Xoe dance was performed.

The Hoa Ban Festival is held annually in March by Son La city, featuring many activities that reflect the unique cultural identity of the city's ethnic groups. The Xên Mường ritual was held at Dong Xên Park, Chieng Coi ward, Son La city. The Hoa Ban Festival consists of a ceremonial part and a festive part. The "Xên Mường" ceremony, performed by elderly artisans, involves the "Tam Te Then" ritual, reporting to and inviting the celestial deities and the gods who govern the mountains and rivers on earth to join in the festivities and enjoy the delicious food and unique offerings, the fruits of the labor of the local people.

In the Xoe dance performance competition, the teams, consisting of artisans and amateur performers from core cultural troupes of communes and wards in Son La city, showcased traditional Xoe dances, including: "Kham Khan Moi Lau" (raising the scarf to offer wine); "Pha Xi" (dividing into four); "Don Hon" (advancing and retreating); "Nhom Khan" (tossing the scarf); "Om Lom Top Mu" (circle clapping); and "Kham Khen" (holding hands). The teams will also perform creative Xoe dances.

The Son La City Ban Flower Festival will run until March 16th, encompassing a variety of unique cultural, sports, and tourism activities such as: Piêu scarf embroidery competition at cultural booths; traditional sports; beauty pageants showcasing traditional costumes; community activities; and the opening ceremony, which will take place at 8 PM tonight, March 15th.

Performed by: Nguyen Trang - Do Trang