Festival Of Mr. Fish In Hoi An 2024

The Festival of Mr. Fish in Hoi An is far more than a mere ceremonial gesture to express reverence and honor the significant contributions of mythical deities. It embodies the heartfelt prayers and wishes of fishermen, intricately woven into the prosperity and development of the fishing villages.

The essence of the Mr. Fish Festival

This is one of the traditional festivals and the largest organized in Hoi An, which holds special significance for the fishermen in the fishing village.

Origins of the festival

The Mr. Fish Festival, also known as the Whale Festival, holds paramount importance among the fishermen of Quang Nam province, originating from the primitive beliefs of coastal communities. Stemming from numerous instances where Mr. Fish aided fishermen in perilous situations at sea, the ritual of worshipping Mr. Fish has evolved into a significant religious festival for the fishing community.

Significance of the Mr. Fish Festival in Hoi An

The festival, observed on Mr. Fish's death anniversary or at locations where Mr. Fish's remains wash ashore, serves as an expression of gratitude and reverence from fishermen towards the divine beings who have always safeguarded and supported the village. It also embodies aspirations for calm seas, abundant harvests, and safe returns for all fishermen.

The worship of Mr. Fish is a distinctive cultural and religious practice in Vietnam

The rituals within the festival

The Festival of Mr. Fish is held annually in the middle of the third lunar month. As the festival approaches, everyone eagerly begins preparations, adorning the shrines magnificently, solemnly setting up altars for offerings, and decorating boats with colorful lanterns and flowers.

Ceremony of blessings

The blessing ceremony takes place on the festival's first day at the Mr. Fish shrine. Elders and respected individuals from the fishing village offer sacrifices and recite ceremonial texts expressing profound gratitude and reverence for the immense benevolence of Mr. Fish, praying for successful fishing trips and abundant harvests.

The ceremony takes place in a very solemn atmosphere

The procession on the sea

At dawn the next day, villagers begin the drumming ritual to perform the procession of Mr. Fish. All boats set sail together to a predetermined location to seek approval from the deity. This ritual signifies the villagers' desire to seek the deity's consent for their plans and endeavors in the new year. After successfully receiving approval, as directed by the presiding elder, the boats return to shore.

The fleets of boats set sail together to perform the ceremonial

Chanh te ceremony

By midnight of the following day, the Chanh te ceremony is conducted. It includes significant rituals such as opening the ceremony, incense offerings, cultural programs, and exchanges: singing bai choi, classical drama, and folk songs. Of particular note is the folk singing style known as "cheo ba trao", where locals don unique costumes and perform songs expressing gratitude to Mr. Fish for his continuous protection and assistance to fishermen.

Many cultural and artistic activities are organized at the festival

The Festival of Mr. Fish in Hoi An offers a captivating glimpse into the cultural tapestry of Vietnam's coastal communities. To witness this awe-inspiring spectacle and immerse yourself in Vietnam's rich heritage, plan your visit to Hoi An during this enchanting festival.