Experience the Thuong Dien Ceremony in Can Tho City, a Mekong Delta festival celebrating the rice harvest. Discover sacred rituals, folk games, and eco-friendly tours with Legend Travel Group!
The Thuong Dien Ceremony, a cherished cultural festival in Can Tho City, is a vibrant celebration of the Mekong Delta’s agricultural heritage, held annually to honor the God of Land after the rice harvest. Following the merger of Soc Trang and Hau Giang, Can Tho has become Vietnam’s largest city by landmass, drawing millions to its iconic floating markets, lush landscapes, and rich traditions. Taking place in Binh Thuy Ward, this festival blends sacred rituals with lively folk games, showcasing Southern Vietnam’s communal spirit and cultural pride. Aligned with Can Tho’s “Green Delta” sustainability initiatives, the Thuong Dien Ceremony offers an authentic, eco-conscious experience for travelers. Legend Travel Group’s eco-friendly tours immerse you in this festive spectacle—book your tour via the links throughout this guide!
Legend Travel Group, a premier local tour operator, specializes in sustainable Southeast Asia adventures. Our Can Tho tours feature low-impact transport—bicycles, electric boats, and eco-taxis—guided by local experts who share the Delta’s cultural and environmental heritage. Supporting communities in Binh Thuy and Ninh Kieu Wards, we align with Can Tho’s eco-vision. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support, we ensure a seamless journey. Contact us at sales@legendtravelgroup.com or WhatsApp +84825862222 to book eco-tours and experience the Thuong Dien Ceremony responsibly!
Vietnam’s administrative restructuring has merged Soc Trang and Hau Giang into Can Tho City, with Ninh Kieu as the central hub. District-level units are now wards or communes, enhancing access to cultural events like the Thuong Dien Ceremony in Binh Thuy Ward. Supported by sustainable infrastructure—cycling paths, electric ferries, and a VND800 billion flood mitigation project—Can Tho offers seamless exploration of its vibrant festivals.
The Thuong Dien Ceremony, held from the 12th to 14th of the fourth lunar month (typically May or June), is a traditional festival at Binh Thuy Communal House in Binh Thuy Ward, Can Tho City. Rooted in agrarian traditions, it honors the God of Land with prayers for bountiful harvests, good weather, and prosperity. Recognized as a city-level cultural event, the ceremony preserves Southern Vietnam’s heritage while promoting national values to international visitors. The festival combines sacred rituals with lively cultural activities, reflecting the Delta’s communal spirit and agricultural legacy. Its vibrant atmosphere, set against the backdrop of Can Tho’s riverine landscapes, makes it a unique cultural experience.
Key Features:
Location: Binh Thuy Communal House, Binh Thuy Ward, Can Tho City.
Date: 12th–14th of the fourth lunar month (May–June).
Significance: Celebrates the rice harvest and honors the God of Land.
Vibe: A blend of solemn rituals and festive folk activities.
Tip: Attend on the 13th for peak rituals and games, included in our Can Tho Heritage Tour ($50–$70).
The Thuong Dien Ceremony occurs from the 12th to 14th of the fourth lunar month, typically falling in May or June, during Can Tho’s dry season transition (25–36°C or 77–96.8°F). This period offers pleasant weather for outdoor activities, with occasional showers adding lushness to the Delta’s scenery. The festival aligns with the post-harvest season, making it a time of gratitude and celebration for local farmers. Visiting during these three days ensures you experience the full range of sacred ceremonies and cultural events, with the 13th being the most vibrant day for rituals like Xay Chau and folk games.
Peak Festival Days: 12th–14th of the fourth lunar month, especially the 13th.
Weather: Warm and sunny with possible brief showers; bring light rain gear.
Cultural Context: Coincides with the rice harvest, ideal for experiencing agrarian traditions.
Tip: Check lunar calendar dates and book tours early, included in our Mekong Delta Immersion Tour ($250–$400).
The Thuong Dien Ceremony offers a rich tapestry of sacred rituals, cultural performances, and folk games, blending spirituality with community celebration. Here are the highlights:
Experience traditional ceremonies at Binh Thuy Communal House, a city-level historical relic since 2004:
Taking Sac Than for a Trip: A procession carrying the deity’s sacred tablet around the village.
Changing Sac Than’s Cover: A ritual to renew the deity’s ceremonial cloth.
Xay Chau: A ceremonial drum dance to honor the God of Land.
Ban Soan and Tuc Yet: Offerings of food and incense to pray for prosperity.
Ton Vuong and Son Quan: Rites to commemorate local heroes and deities.
Cost: Free to observe; donations ($1–$5 or 25,000–125,000 VND) appreciated.
Tip: Respect ritual spaces and follow local etiquette, included in our Can Tho Heritage Tour ($50–$70).
Join lively community games that showcase Southern Vietnam’s playful spirit:
Steamed Sticky Rice Cooking Contest: Teams compete to prepare the best sticky rice dish.
Traditional Boat Race: Watch rowers race along the Hau River, a thrilling Delta tradition.
Stick Pushing Competition: A test of strength and balance.
Chinese Chess Tournament: Engage in strategic matches with locals.
Cost: Free to watch; participation $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND) for some games.
Tip: Try stick pushing for fun, included in our Can Tho City Explorer Tour ($45–$65).
Explore vibrant showcases of Can Tho’s heritage:
Handicraft Displays: Admire woven baskets and pottery by local artisans ($2–$10 or 50,000–250,000 VND).
Binh Thuy Cake Festival: Sample Delta specialties like bánh cống and bánh xèo ($1–$3 or 25,000–75,000 VND).
Orchid Contest: View stunning floral arrangements, a nod to the Delta’s biodiversity.
Cost: Free entry; food and crafts $1–$10 (25,000–250,000 VND).
Tip: Taste bánh cống at the cake festival, included in our Can Tho Foodie Tour ($65–$85).
Enjoy traditional “đờn ca tài tử” music, a UNESCO-recognized Southern folk art, performed by local artists, adding a soulful ambiance to the festival.
Cost: Free with festival entry.
Tip: Attend evening performances for the best atmosphere, included in our Mekong Delta Immersion Tour ($250–$400).
Complement the festival with eco-conscious activities like cycling through Binh Thuy’s rural paths or boating along nearby canals, aligning with Can Tho’s sustainable tourism goals.
Cost: Bike rental $1–$3/day (25,000–75,000 VND); canal boat $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).
Tip: Cycle to the festival for a green approach, included in our Tra Su Eco-Tour ($60–$80).
Location: Binh Thuy Communal House, Binh Thuy Ward, Can Tho City (7 km from Ninh Kieu Wharf).
Date: 12th–14th of the fourth lunar month (May–June).
Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM–10:00 PM; main rituals 8:00 AM–12:00 PM, games 2:00 PM–8:00 PM.
Admission: Free; some activities have nominal fees.
Accessibility: Paved paths at the communal house; games may involve uneven terrain.
Contact: Legend Travel Group for tours (+84825862222).
By Road: From Can Tho center, follow Nguyen Van Cu Street to Binh Thuy Ward (7 km, 15–20 minutes).
Taxi/Grab: $3–$5 (75,000–125,000 VND).
Motorbike Rental: $5–$10/day (125,000–250,000 VND).
Bicycle Rental: $1–$3/day (25,000–75,000 VND), 30-minute ride.
By Boat: From Ninh Kieu Wharf, take a 30-minute tourist boat along the Hau River.
Cost: $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND) per boat (2–4 people).
Tip: Use eco-friendly bikes or electric boats via Xanh SM app, included in our Can Tho City Explorer Tour ($45–$65).
Book Tours Early: Reserve eco-tours via Legend Travel Group (sales@legendtravelgroup.com, WhatsApp +84825862222) 2–3 weeks in advance, especially for the festival period.
Dress Code: Wear modest, comfortable clothing (long pants, covered shoulders) for communal house rituals; bring a hat and sunscreen for outdoor games.
Sustainability: Support local artisans by purchasing handicrafts; avoid plastic waste to align with Can Tho’s green goals.
Navigation: Download offline maps (Maps.me) for Binh Thuy Ward.
Safety: Secure valuables in crowded festival areas; follow guides during rituals.
Cultural Respect: Maintain silence during ceremonies; say “cảm ơn” (thank you) to vendors and performers.
Health: Carry mosquito repellent and bottled water ($0.50 or 12,500 VND) for outdoor activities.
Our sustainable tours pair the Thuong Dien Ceremony with Can Tho’s top attractions:
Can Tho Heritage Tour ($50–$70/person): Thuong Dien Ceremony, Binh Thuy Ancient House, local crafts. Includes eco-transfers, lunch, and guide.
Can Tho Foodie Tour ($65–$85/person): Thuong Dien Ceremony, Cai Rang Floating Market, Binh Thuy cake festival tasting. Includes eco-transfers, meals, and guide.
Mekong Sunrise Tour ($55–$75/person): Cai Rang Floating Market, Thuong Dien evening events, canal cruise. Includes electric boat and breakfast.
Tra Su Eco-Tour ($60–$80/person): Tra Su Bird Sanctuary, Thuong Dien Ceremony, orchards. Includes boat rides and eco-transfers.
Mekong Delta Immersion ($250–$400/person, 2–3 days): Thuong Dien Ceremony, floating markets, homestays ($10–$25/night). Includes transfers, meals, and activities.
Prices include English-speaking guides, eco-transfers, and entrance fees. Enjoy 10% off for groups of 8+ or seasonal promotions. Book now via links around this page!
The Thuong Dien Ceremony in Can Tho City is a vibrant celebration of the Mekong Delta’s agricultural heritage, offering a unique blend of sacred rituals, folk games, and cultural displays. Held in the fourth lunar month, it’s the perfect time to immerse in Southern Vietnam’s traditions and community spirit. Legend Travel Group’s Can Tho Tours guide you through this festival, ensuring a sustainable Can Tho Travel experience combined with Can Tho’s floating markets, orchards, and heritage sites. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your Can Tho adventure today!
Ready to experience Can Tho’s crop festival? Reserve your eco-tour with Legend Travel Group and dive into the Thuong Dien Ceremony’s Mekong Delta magic!
Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, personally guiding and organizing tours for over 100,000 travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.
Sources: By Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group
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