Whale Festival in Vung Tau

Every year, Whale Festival in Vung Tau is held in honor of the whales that protect the fishermen and their boats from the dangers of the sea. This festival is a unique cultural experience that showcases the local traditions and customs of the Vietnamese people.

Basic information about the Whale Festival in Vung Tau

The Whale Festival in Vung Tau is one of the most significant cultural events in this coastal city.

When does the Whale Festival in Vung Tau take place?

The Whale Festival in Vung Tau is typically celebrated from the 16th to the 18th of the eighth month of the lunar calendar, attracting locals and tourists from far and wide. Festivities kick off with an exhilarating procession featuring traditional music, dance performances, and colorful floats parading through the streets of Vung Tau.

The Whale Festival in Vung Tau is typically celebrated from the 16th to 18th of the eighth month of the lunar calendar

Meaning of the Whale Festival in Vung Tau

The festival encapsulates the cultural heritage of the coastal communities in Vung Tau. The Whale is considered a deity who often helps fishermen overcome all hazards at sea. Many fishermen tell stories about how they were rescued by a whale when they were in trouble at sea. Therefore, locals in the coastal area often worship the Whale and the rite has been maintained through generations. The festival is steeped in tradition and spirituality, reflecting the deep-rooted beliefs of the fishing communities.

The festival encapsulates the cultural heritage of the coastal communities in Vung Tau

Celebrating the Whale Festival in Vung Tau

The Whale Festival in Vung Tau is an activity promoting local tourism for both domestic and foreign visitors.

Rituals of the Whale Festival in Can Gio

At the Whale Festival in Vung Tau, the Whale procession begins at the revolutionary traditional home No. 1 on Ba Cu Road and ends at the Thang Tam Communal House. Fishermen and festival attendees offer prayers, burn incense, and present offerings to express their gratitude and seek the protection and prosperity of the sea.

Following the parade, there are performances of traditional Tuong and folk games that mimic fishermen's occupations such as fishing, chess, pushing sticks, tug of war, weaving fish nets, flying kites, and Cheraw dance. The Whale Festival in Vung Tau is a traditional cultural activity of people in the coastal city of Vung Tau, helping to the promotion of local tourism for both domestic and foreign visitors.

At the Whale Festival in Vung Tau, the Whale procession ends at the Thang Tam Communal House

Boat processions and cultural performances at the Whale Festival in Vung Tau

Another spectacle during the Whale Festival is the vibrant boat procession, where beautifully adorned fishing boats sail along the coastline. The boats are meticulously decorated with colorful flags, flowers, and images of whales, creating a mesmerizing sight. The procession is accompanied by traditional music and dance performances that add to the festive ambiance.

Another spectacle during the Whale Festival in  Vung Tau is the vibrant boat procession

The Whale Festival in Vung Tau is a captivating celebration that honors the deep-rooted connection between the people and the sea. If you're planning a trip to Vietnam, consider visiting Vung Tau during the Whale Festival. It's a unique and unforgettable experience that you won't want to miss.