The Pa Then Fire Dancing Festival in Ha Giang is one of the unique events held annually by the Pa Then people. This festival shows the power and belief of human control over nature. Let’s explore the festival with Handspan Travel Indochina!

Through this blog post, you will find out the following information.

An Overview of the Pa Then Fire Dancing Festival

Pa Then Fire Dancing Festival is a long-standing and typical festival of the Pa Then people. Pa Then people are an ethnic minority group in the North of Vietnam, mainly living in Ha Giang and Tuyen Quang Province. Like other ethnic groups in the mountainous region, the main occupation of the Pa Then people is farming with rice and corn as the main food crops. The local people create their unique cultural features from these hard but joyful daily tasks. The Pa Then Fire Dancing Festival was born in that condition, expressing the people's belief and hope in their desire to conquer and master nature. 

Pa Then Fire Dancing Festival

The festival is held when local people start harvesting agricultural products after a year of fertilization. Depending on the conditions and the good time chosen, the festival will be held in the 10th and 11th lunar months until the 15th day of the first lunar month of the following year. The Ha Giang Fire Dance Festival is held in Tan Bac commune, Quang Binh district, Ha Giang Province. On this occasion, the fire dance activity will take place on a large area of ​​land fenced off into a circle separating the main participants and those who come to watch and experience. 

The meaning of the Pa Then Fire Dancing Festival

The Pa Then Fire Dancing Festival plays an important role in the spiritual life of the Pa Then people. They believe that fire is not only a sacred element that helps ward off evil spirits but also a symbol of strength and indomitable spirit. Fire dancing is a ritual to welcome the gods to earth, celebrate with the village, and bless the people with good health, good harvests, favorable weather, and wind. Besides, in the Pa Then people’s belief, fire dancing will increase the strength and endurance of the villagers to overcome the harshness of nature and work to create wealth. Shamans or those who are learning the profession of worship are also believed to become exceptionally intelligent after each time participating in the festival. 

Pa Then Fire Dancing Festival

Fire dance participants must undergo spiritual training and have strong faith in the power of their ancestors. They believe that this ritual helps them to be protected by their ancestors, avoid disasters, and bring a strong belief in the strength of the community. The Pa Then Fire Dancing Festival also attracts many tourists to admire the unique culture of the Pa Then people and explore the majestic beauty of Ha Giang.

Overall, the Pa Then Fire Dancing Festival is a unique traditional festival in Ha Giang. It carries many spiritual and mental meanings of the Pa Then ethnic group in the northern mountainous provinces. Let’s keep reading for exciting activities at the festival. 

Exciting activities in the Pa Then Fire Dancing Festival

Pa Then Fire Dancing Festival is outstanding with many exciting activities. These activities express the spirit of unique national culture. Below are some amazing things at the festival.

Ancestor worship ritual

Before the Pa Then Fire Dancing Festival begins, the shaman will perform ancestor worship rituals to ask for permission for the fire dancing ritual. This ritual has a strong spiritual element and is an indispensable part of praying for the protection of the gods. The shamans will set up the feast, light candles, then light three incense sticks and place them in the incense bowl on the table and three more incense sticks on the ground next to the shaman’s seat. After that, the shaman will perform a spell, calling on the gods from heaven to come down to earth to join in the rhythmic music and give the participants the strength to overcome the challenge. 

Fire dancing ritual of the Pa Then people

Preparing for fire dancing challenge

Fire dancing challenge

Fire dancing is the main part of the Pa Then Fire Dancing Festival. Healthy men, after being possessed by a shaman, will jump into a pile of burning coals without shoes. When the participants have gotten used to the heat, the participants will dance together on the burning fire, humming traditional Pa Then songs.

Fire dancing challenge

Fire dancing challenge

Traditional singing and dancing

During the festival, villagers sing and dance together, using typical folk dances. The music and dances are imbued with the Pa Then ethnic group, creating a vibrant and bustling festival atmosphere.

Traditional folk games

Pa Then Fire Dancing Festival is also a chance to organize folk games. They include tug-of-war, throwing balls, pushing sticks, etc. This is an opportunity for villagers, especially young people, to connect and demonstrate their health and talent. 

Cultural exchange

Pa Then Fire Dancing Festival attracts tourists from many places to visit and experience. This gives the Pa Then people a chance to exchange culture and introduce the unique features of their ethnic group. You can participate in activities and enjoy the specialties of the Pa Then people. 

Overall, the Pa Then Fire Dancing Festival is not only a religious ritual but also an occasion for fun and gathering. It creates a warm and sacred atmosphere. Besides, it also contributes to preserving and promoting the unique traditional culture of the Pa Then ethnic group. 

Tips to note when joining the Pa Then Fire Dancing Festival

Pa Then Fire Dancing Festival is exciting. However, when joining the festival, you may want to note these tips below for a safe and enjoyable experience.

Respecting local culture

When joining the Pa Then Fire Dancing Festival, you should be respectful and not joke around during the ceremony. This is because the festival shows the profoundly spiritual life of the Pa Then people. Let’s follow local people’s guide and avoid taking photos or filming sensitive ceremonies without permission. 

Choosing suitable outfit

The weather in Ha Giang during the festival season is often cold, so you should wear warm and comfortable clothes. Avoid wearing clothes that are too flashy or offensive. In particular, prepare sturdy shoes because you may need to move on difficult terrain.

Keeping a safe distance

When it comes to the fire dance, keep a safe distance from the fire area to avoid danger, especially when the fire is very large and there are many participants. Observe carefully and stand in a safe position so as not to obstruct the performers.

Learn about Pa Then culture in advance

Learning about the meaning and customs of the festival in advance will help you feel more deeply about the rituals and activities that take place. This also helps you understand how to behave appropriately and integrate into the festival atmosphere.

Participate in exchange activities

When joining the Pa Then Fire Dancing Festival, let’s take the opportunity to participate in folk games, interact with local people, and enjoy traditional dishes. This is a great way to learn more about the culture, people, and customs of the Pa Then people.

Prepare necessary personal items

Bring drinking water, basic medicine, and snacks, as the festival often takes place in remote mountainous areas. This may not be convenient for shopping or eating.

Book accommodation and plan your travel early

The Pa Then Fire Dancing Festival attracts many people. Therefore, you should book accommodation in advance and plan your travel specifically. The road to Ha Giang can be difficult. So, let's arrange a vehicle, especially an off-road vehicle, which can help you be safer and more convenient.

In general, joining the Pa Then Fire Dancing Festival gives you a chance to explore unique culture and experience the majestic natural beauty of Ha Giang. If you are in Ha Giang during the festival time, don’t miss out on the opportunity to immerse yourself in the crowded atmosphere of the festival. To book a Ha Giang tour package or tailor your itinerary, please don’t hesitate to contact our team.