A traditional Chăm dance performance showcases the elegance and cultural pride of the ethnic community. — VNA/VNS Photo Nguyễn Thanh

KHÁNH HÒA — The coastal province of Khánh Hòa will host the sixth Chăm Cultural Festival from October 17 to 19, welcoming artists, artisans and athletes from six provinces and cities: Khánh Hòa, Gia Lai, Đắk Lắk, Lâm Đồng, An Giang and HCM City.

Organised by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism in collaboration with the Khánh Hòa Provincial People’s Committee and related agencies, the festival aims to preserve and promote the cultural identity of the Chăm ethnic group while strengthening solidarity among ethnic communities in Việt Nam’s central and southern regions.

With the theme 'Preserving and Promoting Chăm Cultural Identity in the New Era', the event will feature a wide variety of performances and activities. Visitors can look forward to folk singing, dances, instrumental solos and ensembles, as well as ethnic costume showcases woven into cultural performances. Highlights also include reenactments of traditional Chăm rituals, demonstrations of handicrafts such as brocade weaving and pottery, and vibrant community art performances.

During the festival, localities will present exhibitions of traditional Chăm culture, featuring artefacts, models, musical instruments, costumes, photos, books and handicrafts that reflect the unique heritage of the Chăm people within Việt Nam’s diverse cultural tapestry.

A special photo exhibition titled 'The Chăm People Alongside National Development' will display 300 images capturing the State’s support for ethnic communities, Chăm traditions in daily life and achievements of Việt Nam’s 54 ethnic groups. Another exhibition will spotlight Chăm cultural characteristics, showcasing traditional attire, farming tools, household objects and spaces reflecting daily life.

The festival also includes a seminar on 'Promoting Chăm Cultural Heritage in Tourism Development' and a community tourism skills contest, where participants demonstrate their hospitality and storytelling skills. Sporting activities and traditional games such as tug-of-war, stick pushing, mini football and water-carrying races will add to the lively atmosphere.

According to the Việt Nam Department of Ethnic Culture, the festival not only honours the traditions of the Chăm but also promotes Việt Nam’s image as a culturally rich and unified nation. It reflects the State’s commitment to preserving intangible heritage while raising public awareness of the importance of cultural identity in sustainable development. — VNS

*Quick look: the Chăm culture

The Chăm people are one of Việt Nam’s 54 recognised ethnic groups, with a population of over 160,000 mainly residing in the central and southern provinces. They are descendants of the ancient Kingdom of Champa, which flourished from the second century to the 15th century.

Renowned for their architectural wonders, the Chăm built the iconic red-brick towers that still stand today in Ninh Thuận, Bình Định and other provinces. Their culture is marked by a rich blend of Hindu and Islamic influences, reflected in both spiritual practices and daily life.

Chăm women are known for their mastery of brocade weaving and pottery, crafts that continue to be practised using traditional techniques passed down through generations. Distinctive music, graceful dances and elaborate festivals further highlight the Chăm’s vibrant cultural identity, which remains a vital thread in Việt Nam’s multicultural tapestry.