Tens of thousands of pilgrims from other localities including Phu Yen, Ninh Thuan, Gia Lai and Da Nang city flocked to opening day, which featured a requiem, a lantern releasing, a ceremony to pray for peace and prosperity for the country and an offering to the Holy Mother.
Performances of folklore art forms such as Tuong (classical drama), traditional Cham dances and Chau Van (spiritual singing) were also staged at the festival to honour the spiritual cultural value in the daily lives of Cham people in the South Central region.
Located in Vinh Phuoc ward, Nha Trang city, Ponagar Tower was built in typical architectural style of Cham people. It has been recognised as a national historical site since 1979 and the Ponagar Tower Festival has been acknowledged as a national festival since 2001 by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism.
