Top 10 special festival in Sapa not to be missed when visiting

Tourism in Sapa is becoming increasingly popular due to its refreshing and pleasant natural beauty, accompanied by numerous exciting activities. Additionally, the cultural charm of this region is gaining attention and sparking curiosity, as evident through its festivals. Join Hanoilocaltour as we explore the top 10 most unique festivals in Sapa.

Something about Sapa

Sapa is located in Lào Cai, in the northern region of Vietnam, and it is known for its captivating natural landscapes. When you set foot in this area, you’ll feel the extraordinary appeal of this town.

This region is home to various ethnic groups, making it a place of rich cultural diversity, where different regions converge. This unique cultural blend is most evident during Sapa’s festivals, which have attracted an increasing number of visitors. Besides its cultural appeal, Sapa boasts striking mountainous terrain, offering unforgettable natural experiences.

Some Fascinating Sapa Festivals

Each festival in Sapa carries unique meanings, reflecting its beauty and allure. The vibrant activities during these festivals make them unmissable for visitors.

Sapa New Rice Welcoming Festival

One of the most impressive and highly visited festivals in Sapa is the New Rice Welcoming Festival. During this festival, you can experience the beautiful traditions of local farmers who celebrate the upcoming harvest season, hoping for a bountiful crop and a prosperous life.

During this time, the Xá Phó people discard their old rice and clean their homes thoroughly to welcome the new rice crop. Women from the families are chosen to harvest the new rice, and they dress meticulously, neatly groom themselves, and start early to cut the rice. Notably, they must avoid letting anyone know about this task or meeting people from their own village during the process.

Village Cleaning Festival in Sapa

Another fascinating festival in Sapa is the Village Cleaning Festival. This festival is celebrated by the Xá Phó people during the Ngọ or Mùi days of the lunar month of February. It is one of the most important festivals for the Xá Phó ethnic group.

According to tradition, it is believed that during the second lunar month, a malevolent spirit disturbs and troubles the villagers, causing difficulties in their lives. To dispel these spirits and bring back peace and happiness, they organize a village cleaning festival. The ceremonies are simple but joyful. After the rituals, the people gather to eat and play games, strengthening the unity and friendship within the village.

The Giáy People’s Banana Flower Festival

Another captivating Sapa festival is the Banana Flower Festival, which takes place on the 9th day of the 9th lunar month. This festival is held to pray for a prosperous harvest, good health for livestock, and abundance in daily life.

During this festival, rice plants are erected in the center of the festival, and different types of flowers are placed on top of the rice. These rituals are performed by the local people. Subsequently, feasting and celebrations with traditional local food and cultural performances create a joyous atmosphere that enchants visitors.

Exploring Diverse Cultures Through Sapa Festivals

Gầu Tào Festival

The Gầu Tào Festival is the first festival of the H’Mong people in Sapa. It is organized with great excitement and enthusiasm by the local people. According to legend, the festival is believed to bring blessings to families facing difficulties or infertility. They go to Gầu Tào to pray and seek blessings from the deities. When their wishes come true, they return to hold a thanksgiving ceremony.

In this Sapa festival, after completing the rituals, the people engage in vibrant cultural performances. Women don traditional costumes, carry fans, and perform traditional dances, while men play musical instruments. The festival creates a lively and captivating atmosphere with joyous music and dancing.

Nào Sồng Festival

The Nào Sồng Festival is another exciting Sapa festival that enchants visitors. During this festival, the local people prepare offerings to honor the Thu Tỉ deity. The offerings include male chickens and rice, and sometimes pigs are used instead of chickens.

Thu Tỉ is the local earth deity who ensures the safety of the people by protecting them from malevolent spirits and wild animals. This is an important event in the local culture. The Sapa Nào Sồng Festival is particularly attractive to tourists, allowing them to learn more about the gratitude of the H’Mong people who live here. Visitors can immerse themselves in the festive atmosphere and experience the local culture.

Sapa Snow Festival

The Sapa Snow Festival has long been a major attraction for tourists who come to enjoy the pristine snowy landscapes and perfect settings for photo opportunities in Sapa. The festival is usually held from December 25th to 27th. Since Sapa is quite cold at this time, visitors are advised to dress warmly.

During this festival, tourists can enjoy dynamic performances and local dishes. This festival has gone through six seasons, and with each season, it is upgraded with new and exciting elements. Therefore, you should not miss this captivating Sapa festival.

A Must-Attend Sapa Festival

The Giáy People’s Roóng Poọc Festival

The Roóng Poọc Festival is celebrated by the Giáy people in Sapa to pray for favorable weather and a successful harvest. It takes place on the Thìn day of the first lunar month, marking the joyful beginning of spring.

After the rituals are completed, various cultural performances are held. Women, dressed in their finest attire, perform traditional dances with fans. The festival is also a social gathering where people meet to exchange New Year’s greetings and well wishes for health and prosperity.

Field festival

The Đỗng Festival is held on the 8th day of the first lunar month, welcoming a new year full of happiness and promising success. The festival is an energetic and highly anticipated event, attracting numerous domestic and international tourists.

During the festival, you can enjoy graceful cultural performances by Tày and Dao ethnic girls. The traditional music and lively atmosphere, filled with laughter, make it a vibrant and joyful occasion.

The New Year Dance Festival

At this festival, visitors can also witness engaging traditional games that add excitement to the event. These games are not limited to the local residents; tourists are also welcome to participate. Don’t miss the chance to experience these fun activities at the Đỗng Festival if you have the opportunity to visit Sapa.

Furthermore, Sapa offers a wide variety of delicious local dishes prepared by local residents. These dishes are presented in clean and organized stalls and are sold by local vendors, ensuring authentic and unforgettable flavors. The festival also features many local specialties that tourists can purchase as souvenirs for friends and family when visiting the Sapa tourism area.

The Tả Phìn Harmonious Singing Festival in Sapa

The Tả Phìn Harmonious Singing Festival has long been an annual celebration for the local residents, offering joyful festivities. Here, visitors can listen to the captivating, traditional melodies sung by the local people, reflecting the region’s cultural beauty and everyday life.

Through their heartfelt singing, visitors can gain a better understanding of the cultural richness and daily lives of the local people. This festival has also served as a platform for many couples to meet and build relationships, making it a memorable event for all.

Moreover, visitors can participate in various traditional games during this festival, such as climbing poles to win prizes, mountain climbing, or crossing bamboo bridges over streams. These activities are even more exciting amidst the cheerful atmosphere created by the locals’ celebrations.

The information above provides insights into the diverse and vibrant festivals in Sapa, allowing visitors to experience the local culture, traditions, and enjoy memorable moments at these captivating events.