HÀ NỘI Various cultural activities themed "Summer Flavour for Children" will take place throughout July at the Việt Nam National Village for Ethnic Culture and Tourism on the western outskirts of Hà Nội.

A woman from the Tà Ôi group weaves zèng cloth. Photo vtv.vn

The activities aim to praise the role and responsibility of young people in the community and introduce culture and customs of various ethnic minority groups.

“My Summer Days” programme will continue throughout July with exhibitions and folk games like ô ăn quan, đánh chắt chơi chuyền and making kites as well as lessons on traditional instruments.

Various folk games from ethnic minority groups like ném pao (ball throwing) of the Mông, đẩy gậy (stick pushing) of the Mường, tó má lẹ (game with local nuts) of the Thai, and ném vòng (strong throwing) of the Cơ Tu will be introduced in the programme.

Children will be taught how to recycle plastic objects to compete in a contest titled “A Small Act with Big Pile of Plastic Waste” at the site.

Traditional textile weaving will be presented at the village through live performances by artisans.

The groups include Thái, Mường, Khơ Mú with traditional brocade; Mông with linen weaving; Tà Ôi group with zèng brocade, which has been recognised as a National Intangible Heritage by the culture ministry.

Zèng brocade cloth is created from cloth threads and beads, which is used in various utensils.

The art of weaving zèng cloth, which is a special feature in the Tà Ôi’s culture, praises the role of women in society. Mothers teach the art to young women, who reach marriage age. The future bride should give a piece of zèng cloth to her husband’s family as a gift. The delicate weaved cloth will reflect the skill of the bride.

The village is located in Sơn Tây Town, around 40km west of Hà Nội's centre. VNS