Double Ninth festival draws crowds of visitors

Long Son commune in Vung Tau city, Ba Ria-Vung Tau province, is home to a festival entitled “Trùng Cửu” (Double Ninth) which may sound pretty strange to non-locals. In fact, the festival got its name from the day it is held - the 9th day of the 9th lunar month. This year, it falls on October 23 of the solar calendar and attracted thousands of visitors.

The “Double Ninth” festival is held annually to commemorate the forefather of Long Son commune, Le Van Muu (1855 - 1935), known locally as “Mr. Tran”. He was the first to settle on the land and establish Long Son commune.

The festival starts with a solemn ritual to offer 69 vegan offering trays to the late Mr. Tran. It is followed by another ritual offering incense to Mr. Tran and praying for his protection of local people.

The rituals are conducted by Mr. Tran’s descendants and 10 elderly people called “trusted seniors” and held in the “Long Son Great House”. After hosting the rituals, they open the Long Son Great House to invite visitors to sightsee and pray. Then, all 69 offering trays are shared among event organisers and visitors.

Since October 21, nearly 15,000 visitors have flocked to the Long Son Great House to attend the festival and pay homage to Mr. Tran. As per tradition, all attendees are offered free meals and accommodation during the festival./.

VNA