RICE CAKE MAP - Artisan Nguyễn Hồ Tiếu Anh, a member of Global Chefs Union, showcases a map of Việt Nam made from rose-shaped rice cake at the “Hương Sắc Ba Miền” (Flavours of Three Regions) at the Sài Gòn Zoo and Botanical Gardens until April 7. Photo courtesy of the zoo

HCM CITY — HCM City is holding activities to mark Hùng Kings Commemoration Day, which falls on the 10th day of the third lunar month of the year, or April 7 this year.

The city will host worshipping rituals of the Hùng Kings and ancestors at the Hùng King’s Temple within the National Cultural and Historical Park in Thủ Đức City on the morning of April 7.

The rituals will include the palanquin procession, and the practice of offering incense and traditional cakes of bánh chưng (square sticky rice cake) and bánh giầy (round glutinous rice cake).

The commemoration will offer performances of traditional martial arts and Vovinam, drum dance and Kylin – Lion – Dragon dance at the park on April 6 and 7.

DELICIOUS SNACKS - The festival features 150 traditional dishes from different regions across the country and young people’s favourite snacks. Photo courtesy of the zoo

In celebration of the Hùng Kings, the Sài Gòn Zoo and Botanical Gardens is organising a food festival with the theme of “Hương Sắc Ba Miền” (Flavours of Three Regions).

The festival includes 50 stalls displaying 150 traditional dishes from different regions across the country and favourite snacks.

A wide range of popular dishes from Thailand, Laos, South Korea and Japan are also offered.

Visitors can have a chance to learn about Vietnamese cuisine and how to cook Vietnamese dishes with cuisine artisans Ngọc Hà, Lưu Văn Tòan Thắng, and Kim Thủy.

In addition, artisan Nguyễn Hồ Tiếu Anh, a member of Global Chefs Union, showcases a map of Việt Nam made from rose-shaped rice cake.

Anh is a culinary expert with years of experience in traditional dishes and healthy vegetarian cuisine. She has created over 50 jams and candies in central Việt Nam.

The festival also introduces traditional crafts, including Bát Tràng ceramics and the making of paper rice.

Traditional toys and folk games are included as well.

The festival remains open until April 7. — VNS