On the morning of February 25 (the ninth day of the first lunar month of the Year of the Horse), at the Thang Long Imperial Citadel relic site, the Thang Long–Ha Noi Heritage Conservation Centre solemnly organised the 2026 spring incense offering ceremony.
Following the solemn rituals, the atmosphere gave way to a vibrant and festive spring celebration featuring activities such as the ceremonial drum sequence of three rounds and nine beats, drum dances, dragons winding along both sides of the steps leading up to the courtyard of Kinh Thien Palace, and the five-element flag dance.
With its joyful festive atmosphere, the ceremony vividly recreated the sacred spirit of the ancient capital each time spring returns. It was not merely an early-year festival activity, but also a ritual marking the beginning of a new cycle of heaven and earth and of human aspirations, embodying the tradition of gratitude to ancestors, honouring historical heritage, inspiring national pride, and strengthening confidence in the future.
Speaking at the ceremony, Nguyen Thanh Quang, Director of the Thang Long–Ha Noi Heritage Conservation Centre, stated that organising the ritual at the Thang Long Imperial Citadel not only affirms the capital’s role and responsibility in preserving and promoting outstanding cultural values, but also creates spiritual momentum to effectively carry out socio-economic development tasks from the very first days and months of the new year.
In the context of integration and development, holding the spring opening ceremony in accordance with traditional rites affirms cultural resilience and preserves the nation’s identity amid modern currents.
