Hung Kings Commemoration Day, also known as Hung Kings Temple Festival, is one of the most important and sacred holidays in Vietnam. It is a public holiday, celebrated annually on the 10th day of the third lunar month. The holiday pays homage to the Hung Kings, who were the traditional founders of the nation and became a significant symbol of the distinct Vietnamese culture. They are remembered as the first emperors of the nation, establishing the country’s early civilization and political structure.
The primary celebration takes place at the Hung Kings Temple, situated on Nghia Linh Mountain in Phu Tho Province of Vietnam. Thousands of Vietnamese travel to the site for ceremonial offerings and to pay their respects. The ritual includes worship customs and incense offerings, signifying the Vietnamese tradition of ancestor worship. Many cultural activities are also held, such as traditional games, sports, and performances of 'cheo' (traditional operetta) and 'hat xoan' (spring singing).
Hung Kings Commemoration Day embodies Vietnamese philosophy and belief in the origin and fate of their nation. It also serves as a reminder to honor the contributions of their ancestors and the valuable heritage left behind. Despite the passage of time, the Vietnamese people remain committed to marking the holiday, which is not only a tribute to the founding of Vietnam but also a part of the cultural preservation efforts, promoting national pride and unity among its people.