The Cau Ngu Festival in Canh Duong fishing village (Quang Trach district) is one of the biggest festivals of Quang Binh fishermen, with deep spiritual meaning, praying for a smooth year at sea, with a full hold of fish and shrimp.
On February 12 (the 15th day of the first lunar month), many fishermen, boat owners, locals and tourists participated in the Cau Ngu festival in Canh Duong fishing village. This is one of the oldest festivals of Quang Binh fishermen, held annually to commemorate the merits of Mr. and Mrs. Whales - the guardian deities of fishermen at sea.
The unique feature of this place is Linh Ngu Temple, where the Whales are worshiped, and where the skeleton of a giant whale measuring 27m long and nearly 10m wide is preserved. In particular, the village also has a cemetery dedicated to burying whales, showing the fishermen's respect for this species of fish.
Traditionally, the most important ritual in the Cau Ngu festival is the recitation of the Than Ngu eulogy, which is solemnly held at Linh Ngu Temple. Village elders and representatives of local authorities perform incense offering and offerings to pray for a safe new year at sea and a full hold of fish and shrimp.
After the ceremony, the festival took place with many unique cultural activities such as the cotton boat dance, lullabies, folk song performances, etc. These performances not only show the rich cultural life of coastal residents but also attract a large number of tourists to experience.
Speaking at the festival, Mr. Dong Vinh Quang - Chairman of Canh Duong Commune People's Committee, emphasized that the Cau Ngu festival is not only an important spiritual ritual but also an opportunity to encourage fishermen to continue to stick to the sea, maintain fishing grounds and comply with regulations on sustainable seafood exploitation.
