In the morning of April 11 (March 15 in Lunar Calendar), thousands of people attended the opening of the Do Temple Festival, and celebrated the 1007th emperor enthronement anniversary of King Lý Thái Tổ - Lý Công Uẩn.
Do Temple is also known as Co Phap Dien, Temple of Bat De, located in Thuong hamlet in Dinh Bang ward, Tu Son town, Bac Ninh province, is a historical monument with unique ancient architecture.
The temple was built in the Ly Dynasty.
When the Ly Kings died, they were all buried and worshiped here, so the temple has been called the Temple of the Emperors (worshiping the 8 Ly Kings).
The Do Temple Festival, which is a traditional feature of the Kinh Bac culture area, is held annually on the 14th to 16th of the third Lunar month. On the occasion, thousands of people from various regions of the country go there to commend King Lý Công Uẩn for the establishment of the Ly dynasty, the development of the Dai Viet civilization.
The festival also contributes to educating younger generations to uphold sense of responsibility for the nation and the beautiful tradition of "uống nước nhớ nguồn" (When drinking water, remember those who dug the well) of the Vietnamese people.
The procession includes a dragon palanquin, a Goddess Mother palanquin and nine king palanquins and is normally participated by some 2,000 people in ancient-style costumes.
Do Temple Festival is held to recreate the heroic moments of the nation.
During the festival, many artists dressed as Generals of the Ly dynasty.
The Festival attracts thousands of visitors and participants.
Reviving the scene of King Ly Thai To - Ly Cong Uan announcing the Royal proclamation to move the capital city to Thang Long (Hanoi).
In addition, the festival features many cultural activities, such as drum dance, Quan Ho singing, Tuong singing, and sports events.
Playing traditional chess in festival is a unique cultural tradition.
