Hung Yen: Keo Pagoda Autumn Festival 2025 – “The Light of Than Quang”

The Keo Pagoda Autumn Festival 2025 promises a one-of-a-kind cultural and spiritual experience under the theme “The Light of Thang Quang.” Visitors from across Vietnam and beyond are invited to explore Keo Pagoda, a nearly 400-year-old national heritage site, and immerse themselves in traditional arts and local customs.

Keo Pagoda – A Timeless Cultural Treasure

Keo Pagoda, also known as Thang Quang Temple, is located in Vu Tien commune, Hung Yen province. Recognized as a national special heritage site in 2012, its festival was also declared a national intangible cultural heritage in 2017, and the temple’s incense altar was named a national treasure in 2021.

The original Nhiem Quang Pagoda was founded by Zen Master Duong Khong Lo, a royal monk of the Ly Dynasty who was highly respected for his spiritual guidance and service to the king. After centuries of history, the current Keo Pagoda was rebuilt in 1632, featuring inner-courtyard, outer-hall architecture with 17 structures and 128 rooms, retaining its original 17th-century design.

Keo Pagoda is not only a center of Buddhist worship but also a place where locals honor Saint Duong Khong Lo, whose legacy has shaped the spiritual life of the community for generations.

What to Expect at the Festival

The festival runs from October 30 to November 4, 2025 (10–15/9 Lunar Calendar) and is organized by the Hung Yen Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism. Visitors can witness and participate in a variety of traditional ceremonies and rituals, including:

• The opening ceremony (Khai Chi)

• Processions honoring Saint Duong Khong Lo

• Traditional puppet dances

• Frog dances (Mua Ech Vo)

• Boat performances (Cheo Trai Can)

• Lantern night celebrations

• Mother Goddess worship and community offerings

The organizers prioritize cleanliness, safety, and convenience, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the festival worry-free.

The Highlight: “The Light of Thang Quang” Art Program

This year’s festival features a special artistic program called “The Light of Thang Quang,” which brings traditional Vietnamese performing arts to life in three parts. Visitors can enjoy:

• Chèo, traditional northern Vietnamese opera

• Boat rowing performances

• Frog dances

• Puppet shows

Nguyen Quang Lai, Distinguished Artist and Deputy Director of Hung Yen Cheo Theater, shared: “We are proud to present performances that preserve our cultural heritage and celebrate the history of Keo Pagoda.”

Venerable Thich Thanh Quang, abbot of Keo Pagoda, explained the deeper meaning: the “light” symbolizes compassion, joy, and generosity, reflecting the spiritual and cultural values of Buddha and Zen Master Duong Khong Lo.

Experience Vietnam’s Folk Culture

Beyond the ceremonies, the festival offers lively folk activities for all ages:

• Singing boat performances

• Chèo club competitions

• Betel leaf decorating contests

• Traditional games and folk performances

Visitors can immerse themselves in the vibrant autumn festival atmosphere, experiencing the rich cultural traditions of the Red River Delta.

Why You Should Visit

The Keo Pagoda Autumn Festival 2025 is more than just a celebration—it’s a journey through history, art, and spirituality. Visitors will have the chance to:

• Explore centuries-old architecture

• Witness authentic traditional performances

• Participate in time-honored rituals

• Experience the warmth and hospitality of the local community

For anyone seeking to experience Vietnam’s cultural heritage and spiritual traditions, Keo Pagoda in autumn is an unmissable destination.

Images : Collected

📍Source: Vietnam National Administration of Tourism (VNAT)

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