Locals and visitors came to An Sơn Temple to offer incense to Lady Phi Yến on her death anniversary on December 7. — VNA/VNS Photo

HCM CITY — Côn Đảo Special Zone in HCM City held a sacred event at An Sơn Temple on December 7 to mark the 240th death anniversary of Lady Phi Yến, featuring traditional folk games and spiritual activities.

The Lady Phi Yến death anniversary is the largest cultural festival in Côn Đảo Special Zone. It aims to honour the virtues and patriotism of Lê Thị Răm, also known as Lady Phi Yến, held every year on the 18th day of the 10th lunar month.

The festival was recognised as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism in 2022.

Nguyễn Văn Mạnh, deputy chairman of the People’s Committee of the Côn Đảo Special Zone, said that for many years, the festival has played an important role in the spiritual life of local people.

This year, it took place from December 5 to 7 (16th to 18th day of the 10th lunar month) at An Sơn Temple, featuring traditional folk games and spiritual activities such as the ablution ceremony of Lady Phi Yến and the procession of Prince Hội An’s spirit tablet (son of Lady Phi Yến and Lord Nguyễn Ánh).

A solemn incense-offering and ablution ceremony for Lady Phi Yến was held on December 5, after which locals and visitors offer incense and pray for peace.

The event also attracted large crowds of locals and visitors, who took part in lively folk activities such as a mass tug-of-war contest and a traditional cake-making competition. — VNS.