1. Overview of the Muong Xia Festival
1.1. What is the Muong Xia Festival? Outstanding historical and cultural values
Standing out in the land of Thanh Hoa, 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 peaceful lives to the border people. Spanning centuries, the festival has become an indispensable part of the spiritual life of the Thai people here.
Muong Xia festival is a typical cultural highlight of the Thai ethnic community in Son Thuy commune. (Source: Collection)
Notably, 2022 marks a milestone as 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 key site for 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 taking place 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 Gregorian calendar when spring fills the villages. The festival takes place continuously with many attractive rituals and 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 about Tu Ma Hai Dao in the Muong Xia festival
2.1. Legend 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 distinguished himself with exceptional martial arts skills. After successfully winning a martial arts competition, he was entrusted by the king with the important task 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.
Tu Ma Hai Dao Temple - National Hero on Muong Xia land. (Source: Collected)
Upon his death, the people entrusted his "spirit" to a sacred stone to pray for the community's protection. This stone is preserved in Chung Son village, on the former site of the hero's house, and is considered a sacred object symbolizing the Muong Xia festival. Additionally, the legend of him is closely associated with the unique love story of a boy and girl from Pha Dua mountain, enriching the cultural tapestry of the Thai people in the Quan Son region.
2.2. The role of the festival in preserving Thai cultural identity
The Muong Xia festival serves as a bridge connecting tradition with the present, helping the Thai community pass down valuable cultural heritage and national solidarity. Through the rituals and festival activities, the younger generation learns about the history and customs of their ancestors, thereby fostering pride in their national identity. The festival also contributes to strengthening the bond within the border ethnic communities, consolidating 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, holding deep spiritual significance in the Muong Xia festival. The sacred stone, called Lac Man, will be brought from its resting place to the Tu Ma Hai Dao temple in a solemn atmosphere before the entire community. Before being carried, the stone is cleaned, wrapped in red cloth, and placed on a palanquin carried alternately by young men and women.
The "Rước Đá Vía" ritual is considered the most important part, containing deep spiritual significance in the Mường Xia festival. (Source: Collected)
The procession moves slowly under the witness of locals and tourists, creating a special sacred atmosphere. The 'đá vía' (soul stone) is a symbol representing the belief of the Thái people that 'vía' (soul) is the spirit of the community; preserving the 'đá vía' will bring health, peace, and prosperous harvests. The ritual not only has religious value but also unites everyone in the community, demonstrating a strong spirit of solidarity.
3.2. Worshiping Rituals and the Ceremony for the Hero Tư Mã Hai Đào
After the conclusion of the 'Rước Đá Vía' ritual, everyone participates in the worship ceremony at the temple in a reverent atmosphere. Abundant offerings such as savory dishes, rolled fabrics, bracelets, and fruits are meticulously prepared by the skillful hands of local young men and women. The main officiant will perform the rituals according to the traditions of the Thái people, bringing a sense of solemnity and sacredness.
The act of offering incense and performing worship rituals expresses deep gratitude for the merits of the hero Tư Mã Hai Đào, while connecting with the ancient folk beliefs of the Thái people. In each rite, people send their wishes for peace for the homeland, abundant harvests, and for everyone to be healthy and happy.
3.3. Important Worship Sites: Temple, foot of Pha Dùa mountain, river confluences
The temple of Tư Mã Hai Đào is the center of important rituals in the Mường Xia festival, attracting a large number of locals and visitors. Besides, the foot of Pha Dùa mountain still preserves legendary love stories, becoming the place where the sacred 'cúng sứa tú Nặm' ritual takes place.
The confluences of rivers and streams, where Suối Xia and Sông Luồng river meet, and the banks of Sông Luồng also play an indispensable role in the ritual system. The activities of 'cúng mường' (village worship) and 'cầu vía' (praying for soul) for the Thái Mường Xia community are all organized here, reflecting the harmony between humans and nature in the spiritual life of the Thái people.
4. Festive Atmosphere: Games and Unique Cultural Activities at the Mường Xia Festival
4.1. Folk Art Program: Hát Khặp, Múa Sạp, Múa Chá, Gong Performance
As the sound of gongs rings out, the Mường Xia festival space becomes lively with unique folk art performances. The deep, melodious 'hát khặp' (folk singing) tunes praise life and honor ancestors, along with the graceful 'múa sạp' (bamboo dance) and 'múa chá' (a type of dance) showcasing the beauty of labor and the harmony with nature of the Thái people.
The traditional rhythm of the gongs makes the atmosphere vibrant, attracting the attention of all attendees. The artistic performances are not only entertaining but also help visitors understand more about the culture, spirit, and how the Thái people express their 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 Lively Sports Activities
A vibrant festival space with many traditional folk games. (Source: Collected)
The festival space becomes even more vibrant with many traditional folk games. Tung con, a game deeply imbued with Thai identity, is where young couples express their dexterity and cheerful spirit. Additionally, games like to ma le, ban no, and day gay are opportunities for youth to showcase their strength and agility. Khua luong and ca kheo bring joy and laughter to all ages.
Notably, the choi cu game always attracts attention due to its competitiveness and the unpredictability of each round. These activities not only bring joy but also contribute to fostering a sense of unity among community members. Tourists can also participate directly, immersing themselves in the excited and joyful atmosphere of the festival.
4.3. Border Area Cultural Exchange: Connecting the ethnic communities of Quan Son and surrounding areas
The Muong Xia Festival becomes a meaningful cultural meeting point for the Thai, Kinh, and Muong ethnic communities along with neighboring villages. The presence of Lao compatriots creates a friendly exchange space, demonstrating solidarity among ethnic groups.
The exchange activities take place in a close atmosphere, from enjoying traditional dishes, chatting and sharing production experiences, to participating in fun folk games. The festive atmosphere helps promote the spirit of solidarity of the Quan Son community, while also strengthening friendly relations among ethnic groups in the region.
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 visitors. 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, the organization of 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 cultural exploration and experiencing the lives of ethnic minority communities.
5.2. Combining visits to nearby prominent destinations
By attending the Muong Xia Festival, visitors can also combine their trip with a visit to the temple of Tu Ma Hai Dao, which preserves fascinating artifacts and stories about the national hero. In the future, the Huyen Tich Am Tien project promises to be a popular destination for learning 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: Collected)
The overlapping mountain ranges and peaceful villages of the western Thanh Hoa region will bring visitors a full appreciation of the natural beauty and local culture. This combined journey will not only help visitors gain a deep understanding of history and traditions but also provide an opportunity to enjoy 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 coming to the Muong Xia festival, visitors should choose neat and elegant attire to conveniently participate in outdoor activities. If you want to immerse yourself in the festival atmosphere, you can try wearing traditional Thai costumes for interesting experiences that are suitable for the locality. Besides, a pair of suitable shoes will help you move easily throughout the festival.
At night and early morning, the weather in Quan Son is often cold, so visitors should prepare warm clothes to maintain their health. If attending worship ceremonies, you should 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 must respect the rituals and culture of the local people. Participating 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 causing 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 should also pay attention to maintaining order and hygiene, not making noise in sacred areas, and not joking about the customs and beliefs of the ethnic groups.
6.3. Tips for taking photos and checking in to capture festival moments
Muong Xia Festival offers many beautiful photo spots to capture memorable moments. (Source: Collected)
Muong Xia Festival offers many beautiful photo spots to capture memorable moments. It is recommended to choose the area in front of the Tu Ma Hai Dao temple with its traditional architectural features as a background for your photos. Additionally, the foot of Pha Dua mountain is also an ideal location to capture the majestic mountain and forest scenery in the frame.
Moments like the stone procession ritual, folk art performances, and traditional games are suitable times to take photos and save memories. Morning or dusk, when the ceremony takes place, also creates beautiful natural light. If you wear Thai ethnic costumes, tourists will have more unique, local-flavored photos.
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 beautiful traditions, and contribute to spreading the precious cultural values of the nation.
