1. Overview of the Muong Xia Festival
1.1. What is the Muong Xia Festival? Outstanding historical and cultural values
Prominent in the Thanh Hoa region, the Muong Xia festival is a typical cultural highlight of the Thai ethnic community in Son Thuy commune. The festival is held to commemorate and honor the merits of the national hero Tu Ma Hai Dao, who greatly contributed to maintaining border security and bringing a peaceful life to the people in the border region. Spanning centuries, the festival has become an indispensable part of the spiritual life of the Thai people here.
Muong Xia Festival is a prominent cultural highlight of the Thai ethnic community in Son Thuy commune. (Source: Collected)
Notably, 2022 marks a milestone when the Muong Xia Festival was honored as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, affirming its enduring value over time. The festival is not only an occasion to honor the hero Tu Ma Hai Dao but also an opportunity to recreate legends associated with the formation of Muong Xia, as well as preserve the unique customs and traditions of the Thai people in the region.
1.2. Where is the Muong Xia Festival held?
The center of the Muong Xia Festival is located in Chung Son village, Son Thuy commune, a land considered the cradle of ancient Muong Xia. This place not only holds historical value but is also a place preserving many important spiritual aspects for the Thai community. The festival space blends with the deep green mountains and forests, creating a solemn and sacred atmosphere, contributing to enhancing the traditional values of the rituals held here.
1.3. When is the Muong Xia Festival held?
The Muong Xia Festival is usually held on the 9th and 10th days of the 2nd lunar month each year, which is around March of the solar calendar when spring fills the villages. The festival takes place continuously with many attractive ceremony and festival activities, bringing a joyful atmosphere throughout the Quan Son region. Specifically for 2025, the festival will be held on March 8-9, promising to bring many rich experiences for those who want to explore Thai culture.
2. Meaning and legends of Tu Ma Hai Dao in the Muong Xia Festival
2.1. Legends of Tu Ma Hai Dao - National hero on Muong Xia land
According to legend, Tu Ma Hai Dao was an outstanding son of the ancient Muong Dao region, orphaned at a young age but quickly stood out due to his exceptional martial arts skills. After achieving victory in a martial arts competition, he was entrusted by the king with the responsibility of commanding the army to defend the border against foreign invaders. Under the leadership of Tu Ma Hai Dao, the land of Muong Xia developed and became a prosperous center.
Temple of Tu Ma Hai Dao - National hero on the land of Muong Xia. (Source: Collected)
When he passed away, the people entrusted his "spirit" into a sacred stone to pray for the community's protection. This stone is kept in Chung Son village, on the former site of the hero's house, and is considered a sacred object symbolizing the Muong Xia festival . Furthermore, the legend about him is also closely associated with the unique love story of a young couple from Pha Dua mountain, enriching the cultural colors of the Thai people in the Quan Son region.
2.2. The role of the festival in preserving the cultural identity of the Thai people
The Muong Xia festival plays the role of a bridge connecting tradition with the present, helping the Thai community pass down valuable cultural values as well as the spirit of national solidarity. Through the rituals and activities of the festival, the younger generation has the opportunity to access and learn about the history and customs of their ancestors, thereby nurturing pride in their national identity. The festival also contributes to creating cohesion within the border ethnic communities, strengthening solidarity and close relationships with neighboring ethnic groups.
3. Characteristic rituals of the Muong Xia festival
3.1. The "procession of the spirit stone" ritual - The soul of the Muong Xia festival
The "procession of the spirit stone" ritual is considered the most important part, containing profound spiritual meaning in the Muong Xia festival . The sacred stone, called Lac Man, will be brought from its resting place to the Temple of Tu Ma Hai Dao in a solemn atmosphere in the presence of the entire community. Before being carried in procession, the stone is cleaned, wrapped in red cloth, and placed on a palanquin carried alternately by young men and women.
The "carrying the soul stone" ritual is considered the most important part, containing deep spiritual significance in the Muong Xia festival. (Source: Collected)
The procession moves slowly under the witness of locals and tourists, creating a special sacred atmosphere. The soul stone is a symbol representing the belief of the Thai people that "via" (soul) is the spirit of the community; preserving the soul stone will bring health, peace, and prosperous harvests. The ritual not only has religious value but also unites everyone in the community, demonstrating strong solidarity.
3.2. Ritual of worshipping deities and honoring hero Tu Ma Hai Dao
After the ritual of carrying the soul stone concludes, everyone participates in the worship ceremony at the temple in a reverent atmosphere. Rich offerings on platters such as savory dishes, rolled fabrics, bracelets, and fruits are carefully prepared by the skillful hands of local young men and women. The main officiant will perform the rituals according to Thai traditions, bringing a solemn and sacred feeling.
Offering incense and performing worship rituals express deep gratitude for the merits of hero Tu Ma Hai Dao, while connecting with the long-standing folk beliefs of the Thai people. In each rite, people send wishes for peace for the homeland, abundant harvests, health, and happiness for everyone.
3.3. Important worship sites: Temple, foot of Pha Dua mountain, river and stream confluences
The temple of Tu Ma Hai Dao is the center of important rituals in the Muong Xia festival, attracting many locals and visitors. Besides that, the foot of Pha Dua mountain still preserves legendary love stories, becoming the place for the sacred ritual of offering to Sua Tu Nam.
The confluences of rivers and streams, where Xia stream and Luong river meet, and the banks of the Luong river also play an indispensable role in the ritual system. Activities of offering to the village and praying for the soul of the Muong Xia Thai community are all organized here, reflecting the harmony between humans and nature in the spiritual life of the Thai people.
4. Festive atmosphere: Unique games and cultural activities at the Muong Xia festival
4.1. Folk art program: Khap singing, Sap dance, Cha dance, gong playing
When the sound of gongs rings out, the space of the Muong Xia festival begins to bustle with unique folk art performances. Deep and melodious Khap singing tunes praising life and honoring ancestors, along with graceful Sap dance and Cha dance, express the beauty of labor and the harmony with nature of the Thai people.
The rhythm of traditional gongs makes the atmosphere vibrant, attracting the attention of all attendees. The art performances are not only entertaining but also help visitors understand more about the culture, spirit, and how the Thai people express emotions and beliefs. The combination of music, dance, and traditional costumes creates a vivid and unforgettable cultural picture for attendees.
4.2. Unique folk games and vibrant sports activities
Lively festival atmosphere with many traditional folk games. (Source: Collected)
The festival atmosphere becomes even more vibrant with many traditional folk games. Tung còn, a game deeply imbued with Thai identity, is where young men and women show their dexterity and cheerful spirit. Besides, games like to ma le, crossbow shooting, and pole pushing are opportunities for young people to demonstrate their strength and agility. Khua luong and stilt walking bring joy and laughter to all ages.
Particularly, the cù wrestling game always attracts attention due to its competitiveness and unpredictability in each round. These activities not only bring joy but also contribute to fostering a sense of unity among community members. Tourists can also directly participate and experience, immersing themselves in the excited and joyful atmosphere of the festival.
4.3. Border region cultural exchange: Connecting ethnic communities in the Quan Son region and its surroundings
Muong Xia Festival becomes a meaningful cultural meeting point for the Thai, Kinh, and Muong ethnic communities and neighboring villages. The presence of Lao compatriots creates a friendly exchange space, demonstrating solidarity among ethnic groups.
Exchange activities take place in a close atmosphere, from enjoying traditional food, chatting and sharing production experiences, to participating in fun folk games. The festive atmosphere helps promote the spirit of solidarity of the Quan Son regional community, while also strengthening friendly relations among ethnic groups in the area.
5. Muong Xia Festival with tourism and border region development
5.1. Muong Xia Festival - A driving force for cultural promotion and tourism development
Recognized as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage, the Muong Xia Festival has been and continues to contribute to enhancing the tourism appeal of the Quan Son region for both domestic and international tourists. This event not only promotes the beautiful image of Thanh Hoa but also drives socio-economic development for the locality.
Along with tourism promotion programs, organizing the festival creates favorable conditions for the development of services such as accommodation, cuisine, and community-based tourism. As a result, Thanh Hoa's tourism products become more diverse and attractive, especially for those who love exploring culture and experiencing the lives of ethnic minority communities.
5.2. Combining visits to nearby prominent destinations
Attending the Muong Xia Festival, tourists can also combine visits to the temple of Tu Ma Hai Dao, which preserves artifacts and captivating stories about the national hero. In the future, the Huyen Tich Am Tien project promises to be a popular destination for people to learn more about the spiritual space of this land.
The Huyen Tich Am Tien Project promises to be a popular destination for many to learn more about the spiritual space of this land. (Source: Collection)
The overlapping mountain ranges and peaceful villages of the Western Thanh region will bring visitors a full appreciation of the natural beauty and local culture. This combined journey will not only help guests gain a deep understanding of history and traditions but also provide an opportunity to enjoy local cuisine and shop for unique local handicrafts.
6. Experience attending the Muong Xia festival: Important notes for visitors
6.1. Suggestions for attire and preparation when attending the Muong Xia festival
When attending the Muong Xia festival, visitors should choose neat and elegant attire for convenience in participating in outdoor activities. If you want to immerse yourself in the festival atmosphere, you can try wearing traditional Thai costumes for an interesting and locally appropriate experience. In addition, a suitable pair of shoes will facilitate easy movement throughout the festival.
At night and in the early morning, the weather in Quan Son is often cold, so visitors should prepare warm clothing to maintain their health. If attending worship ceremonies, bring cakes, fruits, or flowers as guided by the organizing committee to show respect to ancestors and local customs.
6.2. Dos and don'ts when participating in highland festivals
When participating in the Muong Xia festival, each visitor needs to respect the rituals and culture of the indigenous people. Participation in activities and games should be based on personal health to ensure safety. Especially, before wanting to photograph sacred rituals, you should ask for the opinion of local people to avoid misunderstandings or affecting the solemn atmosphere.
Avoid jostling or pushing in areas where rituals are taking place, to avoid affecting the progress of the festival. Visitors also need to pay attention to maintaining order, hygiene, not making noise in sacred areas, and not joking with the customs and beliefs of the ethnic groups.
6.3. Photo tips and check-ins to capture festival moments
The Muong Xia Festival offers many beautiful photo opportunities to capture memorable moments. (Source: Collected)
The Muong Xia Festival offers many beautiful photo opportunities to capture memorable moments. It is advisable to choose the area in front of the Tu Ma Hai Dao temple with its traditional architectural features as a backdrop for the photo. In addition, at the foot of Pha Dua mountain is also an ideal location to capture the majestic mountain and forest scenery in the frame.
Moments of stone carrying rituals, folk art performances, and traditional games are suitable times for photography to capture memories. Morning or late afternoon when the ceremony takes place also creates beautiful natural light. If wearing traditional Thai ethnic costumes, visitors will have more unique photos with a strong local flavor.
The Muong Xia Festival is not only a unique cultural heritage of the Thai ethnic group but also a symbol of unity in the Thanh Hoa border region. This is a unique experiential destination for tourists who wish to explore the culture, beliefs, and community life of the Thai ethnic group. Come and fully experience the sacred atmosphere, learn about the good traditions to contribute to spreading the precious cultural values of the nation.
