Amid the tranquil blue waters of Ha Tien Bay in An Giang Province, Vietnam, Lai Son Island (Hon Son) – now part of the Kien Hai Special Zone – continues to preserve one of Vietnam’s most distinctive maritime traditions: the Nghinh Ong Festival.
For over a century, it has served as a spiritual anchor for fishermen and a deeply memorable cultural experience for travelers worldwide.
Over a Century of Preserved Maritime Heritage
Held annually on the 15th–16th days of the 10th lunar month, the Nghinh Ong Festival remains one of the most meaningful spiritual traditions for the coastal communities of the Kien Hai Special Zone.
For fishermen who depend on the open sea, worshiping the Whale God—Nam Hai Dai Tuong Quan—brings courage and hope amid unpredictable waters.
Whale Worship – A Spiritual Symbol of Vietnam’s Maritime Culture
In Vietnamese belief, whales are revered as guardian spirits who protect sailors from storms. In gratitude, coastal communities build temples, honor them with noble titles, and conduct solemn funerals whenever a whale washes ashore.
The festival reflects wishes for calm seas, plentiful harvests, and a peaceful life—universal values that resonate with visitors seeking authentic cultural experiences.
Nam Hai Whale Temple – Where History Meets Legend
Built in 1900 and restored several times before being recognized as a provincial heritage site in 2006, the Nam Hai Whale Temple carries both historical and legendary significance.
Historical accounts recount how Lord Nguyen Ánh (later Emperor Gia Long) was saved by a whale during a storm near Phu Quoc, inspiring royal decrees that honored whales as sacred protectors throughout southern Vietnam.
Sacred Rituals and a Vibrant Festival Atmosphere
In the days leading up to the festival, the island comes alive with vibrant colors, lanterns, and beautifully adorned fishing boats. The blend of festive energy and spiritual solemnity leaves a lasting impression on visitors.
Key Ceremonies:
- Prayer for peace and prosperity: Seeking calm seas and plentiful harvests.
- Nghinh Ong Procession: A fleet of decorated boats sails out to ceremonially welcome the Whale God.
- Main Worship Ceremony: Traditional offerings, incense rituals, and ceremonial chants.
Festivities – Energetic and Culturally Rich:
Following the rituals, visitors can enjoy lively activities such as boat races, swimming competitions, tug-of-war, culinary contests, and cultural performances.
Notably, the festival also includes trade and tourism promotion programs, showcasing OCOP products, local specialties, and signature goods of An Giang province to both domestic and international visitors.
A Cultural Journey Not to Be Missed in the Kien Hai Special Zone
The Nghinh Ong Festival offers travelers an authentic immersion into Vietnam’s maritime culture, from sacred rituals and heartfelt hospitality to the pristine natural beauty of Lai Son Island.
It is a cultural journey where belief, nature, and community spirit intertwine, making Kien Hai Special Zone a rising and unforgettable destination in An Giang province.
Source cited from the Journal of Culture and Arts – Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism of Vietnam.
LỄ HỘI NGHINH ÔNG KIÊN HẢI, NGUỒN LỰC PHÁT TRIỂN DU LỊCH Ở KIÊN GIANG
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