Ba Na ethnic men present a traditional dance at the Việt Nam National Village for Ethnic Culture and Tourism. This month the village is hosting a vibrant programme that brings to life the traditions of Việt Nam’s diverse ethnic communities. Photo courtesy of Việt Nam National Village for Ethnic Culture and Tourism

HÀ NỘI — Throughout October, the Việt Nam National Village for Ethnic Culture and Tourism is hosting a vibrant programme that brings to life the traditions of Việt Nam’s diverse ethnic communities.

Titled I Am the Flower of the Mountains, the event is organised by the Vietnam Authority of Ethnic Cultures (VAEC) under the Ministry of Culture. It aims to highlight the richness of ethnic heritage through music, dance, crafts and everyday customs.

One of the programme’s highlights is 'Fragrance of the Great Highlands', a cultural exchange featuring folk performances and musical demonstrations by the Ba Na people from Gia Lai Province. These acts, presented by the cultural bearers themselves, reflect a deep connection to their ancestral villages and a strong sense of ethnic pride.

Daily interactions in the village allow visitors to engage with communities such as the Xơ Đăng, Cơ Tu, Tà Ôi, Ba Na, and Gia Rai. These exchanges help foster understanding and showcase the distinct cultural identities of each group.

Visitors can also explore the Ba Na cultural space, where they’re invited to learn traditional songs and dances, try their hand at weaving and carving, and experience local customs like rice pounding. Ethnic cuisine, including bamboo-cooked rice and grilled meat, adds a flavourful touch to the experience.

On weekends, the village comes alive with performances by community groups from across the country. Central Highlands artists present gong music and traditional dances, while northern ethnic groups share folk melodies and close their programme with a symbolic circle dance that celebrates unity among Việt Nam’s 54 ethnic groups.

Beyond the stage, guests can take part in folk games, sample regional dishes and join creative workshops. Activities such as painting, sand art, bamboo crafting and trying on ethnic costumes offer younger visitors a chance to express themselves while connecting with cultural traditions in a hands-on way.

This October, the village offers not just entertainment, but a meaningful opportunity to experience the living heritage of Việt Nam’s ethnic communities. — VNS