Travel Blog

The fire jumping festival is one of the most unique and fascinating festivals of the Pà Thẻn ethnic minority, residing in Tan Bac commune, Quang Binh district, Ha Giang province. The festival is typically held on the 16th day of the 10th lunar month every year, serving as an occasion for people to pray for a bountiful harvest, prosperity, and safety in their lives.

History and Origin:

The fire jumping festival of the Pà Thẻn ethnic group has a long history, closely tied to the legend of the heroic figure Pà Thẻn. According to tradition, Pà Thẻn was a skilled hero who led the Pà Thẻn people in fighting against foreign invaders and emerged victorious. After the victory, Pà Thẻn taught his people how to jump over fire as a way to express gratitude to the divine spirits who protected them.

Rituals and Offerings

The fire jumping festival begins with rituals and offerings. The village elders will present offerings to the divine spirits, praying for favorable weather, abundant harvests, and national prosperity and peace. Following the rituals and offerings, the festival will proceed with various entertainment activities such as dancing, singing, and traditional games.

The fire jumping part:

This is the most important and captivating part of the festival. The young men of the village, full of vigor, gather around a large fire. They dance, sing, and pray for the village's peace and abundant harvests. After the ceremony conducted by the shaman, the young men take turns leaping over the blazing bonfire, dancing, singing, and praying for the village's peace and plentiful harvests.

Meaning:

The fire jumping festival is a unique cultural beauty of the Pà Thẻn people, reflecting their belief in the spiritual world and their wishes for prosperity and safety in life. The festival is also an opportunity for the Pà Thẻn people to demonstrate unity, cohesion, and together preserve the cultural identity of their ethnic group.

The fire jumping festival is an attractive cultural tourism destination that draws tourists from both domestic and international locations. If you have the opportunity to visit Ha Giang, experience this unique festival to truly appreciate the cultural beauty of the Pà Thẻn people.

Note:

• The fire jumping festival is a spiritual ritual, so tourists should respect the local culture and maintain general hygiene when participating in the festival.
• Do not attempt to jump over the fire with the performers, as this can be dangerous for yourself.
• Wear appropriate, modest clothing when attending the festival.
• Do not take photos or videos without the permission of the local people.