Sacred Festival: The Night Festival of Quang Tri Ancient Citadel

When it comes to trips focused on cultural and historical tourism, Quang Tri is always among the first destinations mentioned. Those who love culture and history are often willing to undertake backpacking tours in Quang Tri to gain a deeper understanding of this sun-drenched land, steeped in the ups and downs of Vietnam's history.

An important part of that journey would certainly include a visit to the ancient citadel of Quang Tri, or even better, to coincide with the Lantern Festival at the ancient citadel to immerse yourself in a special atmosphere that is difficult to describe in words.

The Lantern Festival at Quang Tri Ancient Citadel is a meaningful festival, always associated with the Quang Tri Ancient Citadel – a very popular destination in all Quang Tri tours. The festival is held every five years to commemorate the Vietnamese people who fell for their country. The Lantern Festival at Quang Tri Ancient Citadel is also an opportunity for locals and tourists to pay tribute to the heroic deeds of the 81 historic days and nights of the "Red Summer" of 1972.

The festival begins with ceremonial rituals, including a memorial service at the Citadel monument, an occasion for younger generations to respectfully bow before their fallen ancestors.

Next came the lantern-releasing ceremony on the Thach Han River, with numerous lanterns creating a beautiful and moving scene. As the moment for releasing the lanterns arrived, marked by the gentle sound of bells, groups of people carrying lanterns lit candles and lowered them into the water. A highlight was the sight of female students in traditional ao dai dresses, bathed in the shimmering light of lanterns strung along the paths leading to the lantern-releasing dock.

Next comes the incense offering ceremony at the altar, and finally, a prayer service for the souls of the deceased.

Immediately following the ceremony was the festival, featuring many unique and outstanding activities, such as a seminar with veterans of the ancient citadel to hear about the painful yet heroic achievements during the 81 days and nights of the summer of 1972. There were also many other unique sports and cultural activities.

The festival is a highlight of Quang Tri's cultural tourism. Many tourists come here to explore the ancient citadel's architecture and to light incense sticks to pay tribute to those who have fallen.

Quang Tri Ancient Citadel

The Quang Tri Citadel, a special national historical site of Vietnam, is located in the center of Quang Tri town, Quang Tri province. It is a military fortress and the administrative center of the Nguyen Dynasty in the Quang Tri region. It was also the provincial capital of Quang Tri during the French colonial period and the South Vietnamese government. Notably, during the 1972 General Offensive and Uprising, the citadel became known worldwide for the fierce 81-day and 81-night battle to defend it.

Bo Di