Hung Kings’ Commemoration Day is a significant occasion for the Vietnamese to reflect on the historical foundations of Viet Nam. Beyond being a public holiday, it represents thousands of years of tradition and national pride. Here are 10 essential facts to help you understand the significance of this day.
The 18 Dynasties
While we often hear about the "18 Hung Kings," this actually refers to 18 different dynasties, or lines of succession, rather than 18 individual rulers. These dynasties governed the first nation of Vietnam, known as Văn Lang, for over 2,000 years.
The Concept of "Dong Bao"
The term "Đồng bào" means "from the same egg sac". This comes from the legend of Lạc Long Quân and Âu Cơ, who produced 100 eggs that hatched into the first Vietnamese people. This story reminds us that all citizens share a common origin and should support one another like family.
Global Cultural Recognition
In 2012, UNESCO recognised the "Worship of Hung Kings" as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This means our tradition of honouring ancestors is respected worldwide as a unique and valuable part of human culture.
The Dragon and the Elephant
The main festival site is on Nghĩa Lĩnh Mountain in Phú Thọ. Legend says the mountain looks like a dragon's head, and the 99 hills surrounding it represent 99 elephants bowing toward the mountain to show loyalty to the King.
Symbols of Earth and Sky
The tradition of banh chung (square) and banh giay (round) began under the 6th Hung King. These cakes were created by Prince Lang Liêu to represent the Earth and the Sky, highlighting the importance of rice and agriculture in our history.
A Calendar Based on the Moon
The festival is held on the 10th day of the 3rd lunar month. Because the lunar calendar follows the moon's cycles, the date on the Western (solar) calendar changes every year, usually falling between late March and mid-April.
Village Palanquin Processions
A major highlight of the celebration is the "rước kiệu" or palanquin procession. Local villages carry decorated shrines to the temple. This is a competition of beauty and coordination that has been practised for centuries.
The Strength of Oral Tradition
The importance of this day is kept alive through a famous folk poem that almost every student memorises:
"Dù ai đi ngược về xuôi
Nhớ ngày Giỗ Tổ mùng mười tháng ba."
This serves as a "cultural compass" for Vietnamese people everywhere.
Understanding these facts helps us see that Hung Kings' Commemoration Day is much more than a day off from school. It is a vital link between the past, the present, and the future. By remembering our roots and the sacrifices of those who came before us, we strengthen our sense of national unity. As students, we carry these stories forward to ensure that the spirit of the Hung Kings continues to inspire generations to come.
