(Photo: baocongthuong.com)
Dien Bien (VNA) – A ceremony was held in Na Sang 1 village, Dien Biendistrict, the northern mountainous province of Dien Bien on April 13 to grant thecertificate of “national intangible cultural heritage” to the water splashingfestival of the Lao ethnic minority group.
According to Ha Van Phieng, Vice Chairman of the Dien Bien district People’sCommittee, the traditional water splashing festival of the Lao ethnic group hasmade contributions to affirming its presence in the locality while forming thenational cultural characteristics.
This is also a traditional New Year festival with close connection with thespiritual ritual of the Lao people, he said, adding that they make offerings tolate ancestors and gods, praying for favourable weather, bumper crops, goodhealth and luck.
Folk games and traditional dance were also orgainsed during the event.
Water splashing is among the rituals held during the Lao Bunpimay festival thatlasts from April 14 to 16 every year.
The recognition of “national intangible cultural heritage” will create apremise for Na Sang 1 village to develop community-based tourism.-VNA