For many years, on the occasion of National Day (September 2), local people in Tam Duong district, in the mountainous northern province of Lai Chau, and neighbouring areas have immersed themselves in the indigenous cultural and artistic space imbued with the identities of the local ethnic minorities. National Day celebrations in Tam Duong have very much become a common festive day for the local people to meet, exchange and enjoy entertainment.

Welcoming National Day this year, since late August there have been various cultural and entertainment activities in Tam Duong, with exhibitions introducing traditional cultural spaces, customs and folk games of different ethnic groups, as well as traditional culinary competitions and Tam Duong Tea tasting.

Among the activities in celebration of this year's National Day, the Tam Duong people and visitors have also had the chance to experience a community-based tourism model of Si Thau Chai hamlet in Ho Thau commune, in addition to joining a unique paragliding performance.

“Banh day” (round glutinous rice cake) being made by the Mong ethnic community, a traditional activity to welcome National Day.

Other ethnic groups also demonstrate their talent in making traditional dishes.

Giay people play their traditional musical instruments in a cultural space imbued with their typical ethnic characteristics.

National Day celebration offers an opportunity for people to meet, exchange and play traditional folk games.

Dao men re-enact their unique, sacred fire-dancing ceremony.

The fire-dance aims to drive away evil spirits and pray for good health.

Tea harvesting contest, honouring the value of labour.

Tam Duong is well-known for its Tam Duong Tea.

The beauty of Si Thau Chai.

Locals enjoying unique paragliding performances.

( VNF/NDO )