Kate Festival is a unique folk event of the Cham people, celebrating the Cham people’s unique spiritual and cultural traditions, honoring deities and kings who contributed to their community and reflecting prayers for good weather, abundant harvests, prosperity, peace, and happiness.

The festival commenced with a solemn procession of the sacred costume of Goddess Po Inu Nagar, revered by the Cham as the Mother of the Land who taught them farming, weaving, and animal husbandry. The ritual brought together Cham communities from Huu Duc, Tan Duc, and Thanh Duc villages, along with Raglai ethnic representatives from Phuoc Ha commune.

After that, the rhythmic sounds of gongs and drums echoed across the village, signaling the start of the vibrant parade. Led by Brahman dignitaries, the procession featured flag bearers, performers, and hundreds of participants in traditional costumes.

The sacred items were later returned to the temple in Huu Duc village, marking the continuation of rituals and festive activities.

Throughout the celebration, visitors enjoyed graceful fan and water-balance dances, accompanied by the Paranung drums and Saranai flute, highlighting the Cham people's artistry, harmony, and deep pride in their heritage.

Local households began preparations weeks in advance, decorating their home, making offerings, weaving new garments, and rehearsing traditional dances. The festival is not only a time of worship but also a way to teach children their traditions.

Running from October 20 to 22, the festival’s main ceremony takes place on October 21 at three Cham places, incluidng Po Klong Garai tower, Po Rome tower, and Po Inu Nagar temple. Main rituals include the costume procession, tower-opening, statue bathing, clothing ceremony, and peace prayers, followed by cultural performances, traditional cuisine, and craft displays.

In 2017, the Kate Festival of Chăm people in Ninh Thuận province was officially recognized as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage.

Hương Huyền