The event began with an incense-burning ceremony at the temple, located in Tien Duc commune, where the Tran Kings were born and start their causes. It was followed by a glorious drum performance by almost 40 provincial artists.

Addressing the opening ceremony, President Triet emphasised that Thai Binh is a province with a diversity of culture, a legendary history and a fascinating tradition. He asked ministries and central sectors to invest in the Tran Dynasty Temple relic site in particular, and Thai Binh province in general, to promote the development of the province and increase awareness of its fine traditions.

The President beat the drum to open the week and wished pilgrims to the festival good health and a successful week-long event.

The programme was followed by the performance of an epic, filled with drums and the singing voices of 850 artists.

The week is expected to attract tens of thousands of visitors to see an exhibition of Tran dynasty documents and artefacts and other exhibitions on vocational training and crafts, as well as folk games, and folk song and dance performances.