A re-enactment of the Ban Soc ceremony is introduced by the Hue Monuments Conservation Centre at the opening of the Hue Festival 2023 on January 1.
The information was disclosed at the festival's opening ceremony on January 1.
Visitors at the opening ceremony
On the opening day, a re-enactment of the Ban Soc ceremony was introduced by the Hue Monuments Conservation Centre. Traditionally, it was held at the end of the lunar year to distribute calendars to royal mandarins during the Nguyen Dynasty (1802–1945). The festival will end with a countdown program on December 31st.
Some highlight activities will include a ceremony marking the 30th anniversary of UNESCO’s recognition of Complex of Hue Monuments as a World Cultural Heritage site, the 20th anniversary of Nha Nhac (Hue Royal Court music) as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity practice, and the Hue Traditional Craft Festival.
During the first three months, the “Spring Ancient Capital” programme will introduce royal festivals, traditional festivals, and unique folk festivals.
The “Shining Citadel” programme will be held from April–June to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Complex of Hue Monuments and the 20th anniversary of Hue Royal Court music honored by UNESCO, in combination with other activities. The Hue Traditional Craft Festival, named “The Essence of Vietnamese Crafts”, is the highlight.
The “Hue in Autumn” programme held from July–September will highlight the Ao Dai traditional dress with Hue Community Ao Dai week. In addition, visitors will have a chance to celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival with displays, installations, lantern procession, and a lion dance performance.
The “Winter of Hue” programme held from October–December will highlight the International Music Festival and the countdown programme to welcome the new year.
Nguyen Thanh Binh, Vice Chairman of the People's Committee of Thua Thien Hue province, said the festival's activities will be diversified to attract the public.
