Dong Ky Firecracker Procession Festival 2025

Dong Ky, a quaint town in the heart of Bac Ninh province, Vietnam, comes alive with vibrant colors and rhythmic sounds during the annual Dong Ky Firecracker Procession Festival. This cultural extravaganza has been a cherished tradition for years, drawing locals and tourists alike. 

About Dong Ky Festival

The Firecracker Procession Festival in Dong Ky is one of the 15 intangible cultural heritages recognized by the Vietnam Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism in 2016.

Origin of the festival

According to folklore, the festival is associated with the legend of Saint Thien Cuong, who fought against the Xich Quy invaders. He ordered his troops to march into battle on the 4th day of the first lunar month. During the departure, people organized firecracker displays to create a lively and heroic atmosphere to encourage the soldiers.

After successfully defeating the invaders, Thien Cuong returned to Dong Ky and held a celebration. To show gratitude, the village of Dong Ky worshiped him as the village deity in the communal house and annually organized a festival to reenact the day when Saint Thien Cuong ordered his troops to fight the enemy.

The Dong Ky Firecracker Procession Festival has its origins in ancient times

Cultural significance

Although it is a village festival, the festival carries the cultural characteristics of the Bac Ninh - Kinh Bac region. The festival not only honors those who contributed to the nation but also seeks good luck, happiness, and prosperity in the new year. As a result, the festival has been preserved for many years and attracts a large number of tourists from across Vietnam.

The uniqueness of the Dong Ky Firecracker Procession Festival

Dong Ky Festival unfolds over 4 days, from the 4th to the end of the 7th day of Lunar New Year. The festival takes place within the precincts of the village's temples and shrines, situated in the northeast of the village along the banks of the Ngu Huyen Khe River.

Pre-festival preparations

Each year, the village selects four individuals aged 50 to act as generals, leading the charge against imaginary foes. These generals are tasked with organizing the troops and crafting firecrackers, ranging from small to large. The largest firecracker can reach up to 15 meters in length, with a cylindrical shape and a diameter exceeding 1 meter.

Before the festival commences, families in the village diligently craft their firecrackers. Due to their purpose in worship and ceremonial burning during the festival, great care is taken in their creation. Those crafting the firecrackers must be young men, and secrecy is maintained to ensure the village's selection for the procession and burning.

Preparation for the festival is meticulous due to its importance

Dong Ky Firecracker Procession Festival schedule

The 3rd of the lunar month is a ceremony that welcomes the symbolic return of the king to the village. At 8:00 PM on New Year's Eve, there is a procession representing historic encouragement for troops in battle. The highlight involves parading the firecrackers to the temple for military assembly on the 4th of the lunar month. Following the worship ceremony, the most captivating segment unfolds—igniting four colossal firecrackers.

Due to safety concerns, the actual burning has been replaced with symbolic fireworks. Each firecracker is adorned with a star-shaped head and a drum-shaped head, with the body intricately carved with the images of Dragon - Unicorn - Tortoise - Phoenix.

Dong Ky Firecracker Procession Festival always attracts a large number of participants

After the firecracker burns, the festival transitions into a military departure ceremony. The generals are carried on the shoulders of young men, performing spirited dances resembling both a cheer for the troops and a farewell to the community.

Other festival activities

In addition to the rituals, the Dong Ky village festival features numerous cultural and folk art activities such as blindfolded goat-catching, boat races, wrestling, pole climbing, cockfighting, and chess tournaments. During the festival, attendees can enjoy Quan họ singing on boats throughout the 4th day and the mornings of the 5th and 6th days. Performances occur within the temple grounds every evening, creating a lively atmosphere. Notably, the performances are all carried out by the villagers, showcasing their rich cultural expressions.

The traditional cultural identity of Dong Ky is vividly showcased through the festival

Dong Ky Firecracker Procession Festival stands as a testament to Vietnam's rich cultural heritage. To truly experience the magic of Dong Ky and immerse oneself in the cultural tapestry of Vietnam, plan your Vietnam tour. Join the vibrant procession, witness the grandeur, and partake in the cultural exchange that makes Dong Ky a unique and unforgettable destination.