Story and photos: Long Ho

Nghe An has long been home to communities engaged in fishing. Every year, as spring arrives, fishmen along the coast eagerly participate in Fish-Worshipping Festivals, hoping for a year of favorable weather, calm seas, and bountiful catches. Join photographer Long Ho, a native of Nghe An, and discover the festive atmosphere of fishing villages in Hoang Mai and Cua Lo townships in Vinh city.

The Den Con Festival

Con Temple in Quynh Phuong ward, Hoang Mai town, is the site of the oldest traditional festival in Nghe An province. Dedicated to Tu vi Thanh Nuong (the Four Holy Mothers), this is one of the four most famous temples in Nghe An, celebrated in the saying: “First Con, second Qua, third Bach Ma, fourth Chieu Trung”, referring to temples of those names. Set on Diec Hill with a sea view, Con Temple boasts a tranquil and picturesque setting that comes alive during its spring festival. Various traditional rituals take place, including offerings, processions for spring celebrations, and the unique “Chay Oi” (running towards Oi Rock) ceremony. These activities reflect the daily life and folk beliefs of the local community.

A palanquin procession at Con Temple

Lang Hieu Temple in Nghi Hai ward, Cua Lo town, also hosts a biennial Fish-Worshipping Festival that attracts locals and visitors with its rich cultural traditions. This temple honors multiple deities and Buddhas, particularly Ca Ong (Whale), since there are many stories of whales saving the lives of fishmen in peril. Consequently, this Fish-Worshipping Festival is also known as the Nghinh Ong Festival and takes place on the 14th and 15th days of the third lunar month. The festival begins with rituals to honor and retrieve Ca Ong’s sacred seal from Cua Lach near Cua Hoi Port. Next comes the Phung Nginh Ceremony at Ha Dung Wharf, culminating with a procession to return Ca Ong’s seal to Lang Hieu Temple.

A boat race out front of Con Temple

In addition to these sacred ceremonies, vibrant festival activities that reflect coastal life include the launch of the Southern fishing season and contests to cut and grill mackerel and pour fish sauce. Each spring, coastal Nghe An is filled with a vibrant atmosphere.