The Pa Then ethnic community in Tuyen Quang Province mostly resides in Thuong Minh Village (Hong Quang Commune, Lam Binh District) and Linh Phu Commune (Chiem Hoa District) with a total population of 840 people.
Their traditional fire dance festival is held annually at the transition into the new year or during the rice harvesting season in the tenth and eleventh lunar months.
Before the dance takes place, the village shaman holds a ceremony to invite the gods to join the festival. He then joins the festival-goers to jump into the blazing fire and dance on live coals with their bare feet, hoping to drive away evil spirits while praying for good health.
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| A Pa Then ethnic man dancing on live coals with their bare feet |
The fire is believed to dispel bad lucks, evils, and the coldness of winter.
The festival aims to express gratitude for the gods for bumper crops, prosperity and health, while illustrating the extraordinary strength of people who dare to cope with difficulties and challenges.
The festival has contributed to educating and increasing the solidarity in the community.
