The opening ceremonies included a flag raising ritual of the Yen The insurgent army in addition to other cultural and sporting events such as martial arts performances, wrestling, archery, crossbow shooting and Quan Ho (love duet) singing.
The Yen The Uprising, last nearly three decades from 1884 to 1913 and was led by Hoang Hoa Tham to battle the French colonialists. Despite its ultimate failure, the uprising left an imprint on the country’s heritage of battling foreign invaders. It also is emblematic of the broader virtues of Vietnamese heroism and patriotism.
On the occasion, the Yen The Festival was recognised as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage. The festival was first held on March 16, 1984 as a display of people’s respect and gratitude for Hoang Hoa Tham and his excellent army.
