The Ba De death anniversary is one of the important holidays in the religious life of the coastal residents of Do Son, Hai Phong.
In the sacred space at the foot of Doc Mountain, ceremonies are solemnly held, expressing sincerity and gratitude to Ba De. According to legend, in the early 18th century, Mrs. Dao Thi Huong - a Do Son girl famous for her beauty and clear voice. In 1736, when Lord Trinh Doanh came to the region, he fell in love with her. However, due to prejudices and injustice of the contemporary society, she was suspected, convicted and drowned in the sea in injustice.
Before her death, she prayed to heaven and earth to witness. Legend has it that her body rose up three times, but still could not escape the cruel fate. After that, storms surged fiercely, those who caused wrongful accusations encountered disasters, and people believed it was a retribution. When he heard the news, Lord Trinh ordered to set up an altar to exonerate her and told the people to build a temple at the place where she died. By the time of King Tu Duc, she was appointed as: "Dong Nhac De Ba - Trinh Chua Phu Nhan".
Since then, Ba De Temple has become a spiritual support for local people. Every Ba De death anniversary, people sincerely offer incense, praying for peace, health, favorable weather, and a prosperous and happy life.
The Ba De death anniversary ceremony is held on February 24, 25, 26 of the lunar calendar every year. This year, the festival is held on April 11-13 with traditional rituals including incense offering ceremony and Hau Dong ritual. After 2 days of organization, the Ba De death anniversary ceremony attracts a large number of people and tourists from all over to offer incense and worship, creating a solemn but still bustling atmosphere, imbued with the cultural identity of the coastal region.
