Phan Thiet: The 12th annual banh Chung (square glutinous rice cakes) festival in Phan Thiet city, the south-central province of Binh Thuan, gave international visitors an engaging glimpse into Vietnam’s Lunar New Year or Tet traditions. Hosted by The Cliff Resort and Residences, the event featured nearly 100 tourists from countries like Australia, Finland, and the Republic of Korea participating in a chung cake making competition. This annual event has become a cultural highlight in Binh Thuan, combining education and entertainment to share Vietnam’s rich heritage with the world.
According to Vietnam News Agency, the festival not only provided entertainment but also served as an educational experience for attendees. Participants were given the opportunity to learn about the significance of the banh Chung, which is a traditional Vietnamese dish made from glutinous rice, mung beans, and pork, wrapped in dong leaves. The dish is an integral part of the Tet celebrations, symbolizing the earth and sky in Vietnamese culture.
The event allowed tourists to immerse themselves in the local customs and practices associated with Tet, Vietnam’s most important holiday. By engaging in the hands-on activity of chung cake making, visitors gained a deeper understanding of the cultural importance of family and community during the Lunar New Year celebrations.
The festival’s success reflects the growing interest of international tourists in Vietnam’s cultural traditions, and it highlights the efforts of local organizations to promote cultural exchange and understanding. The annual event continues to attract visitors from around the world, eager to experience the rich cultural tapestry of Vietnam firsthand.