Local residents compete in making traditional sticky rice cakes (banh day) during Nao Pe Chau festival in Hua Nhan commune, Bac Yen district. (Photo: VNA)
Mong women in Hua Nhan commune compete in stick-pushing contests during the New Year celebration. (Photo: VNA)
Mong women in Hua Nhan commune engage in Pao throwing games. (Photo: VNA)
Tug-of-war competition during Nao Pe Chau festival in Hua Nhan commune, Bac Yen district, Son La province. (Photo: VNA)
Traditional Pao throwing game during Nao Pe Chau in Hua Nhan commune, Bac Yen district. (Photo: VNA)
Performances of the traditional ‘khen’ (the Mong ethnic people’s traditional panpipe) dance during Nao Pe Chau Festival in Hua Nhan commune, Bac Yen district. (Photo: VNA)
Mong Ethnic people in Son La province celebrate Traditional New Year
In Son La Province, the Mong ethnic group primarily resides in highland communes across 12 districts and cities. According to tradition, they celebrate their Traditional New Year, known as Nao Pe Chau, one month earlier than the Vietnamese Lunar New Year (Tet holiday). Rooted in ancestral worship, this celebration preserves cultural heritage and educates younger generations to honor their roots.
