Duck-catching contest livens up Hanoi's Chem Communial House Festival

The Chem Communal House Festival is held annually in honour of Saint Chem (Ly Ong Trong), a national hero credited with helping defend the country during the reign of King An Duong Vuong. This year marks the 110th anniversary of the Chem Communal House palanquin procession and the 10th anniversary of its recognition as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage.

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The most sacred spiritual highlight of the festival this year, held on June 29, is the traditional water procession by dragon boat on the Red River.

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At midday, a ceremony is held to present sacred water for the ritual bathing of the Saint Chem statue. The palanquin procession takes place solemnly, while the sounds of gongs and drums, along with lion and dragon dances, create a vivid and striking spectacle.

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Alongside the solemn rituals, the festive part of the event features a range of cultural activities and traditional folk games that reflect local life. The most anticipated activity, drawing the greatest attention and laughter from spectators, is the duck-catching contest.

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During the festive game, participants must wade into the village’s pond to catch released ducks with their bare hands.

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The missed grabs and slips create the humour and bustling atmosphere.

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Duck catching showcases the agility and physical strength of young men.

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The contest draws enthusiastic cheers from thousands of spectators around the pond.

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Young men chase ducks through the waters of the village pond, adding excitement to one of the festival's most vibrant traditional folk games.

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More than just a game, the duck-catching contest in the village pond becomes one of the highlights of the Chem Communal House Festival in Hanoi.

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Amidst the lively sounds of drums and gongs, the traditional Chem Communal House Festival serves as a spiritual bond connecting the residents of the three villages - Chem, Hoang Xa, and Hoang Lien.