BÀ CHÚA XỨ FESTIVAL

15 May 2010 - 31 Jan 2012
Place: Chau Doc, Vietnam

According to a legend, in the early 1800s, villagers found a statue of a lady dating to the 6th century in the forest. They built a temple in her honour, hoping that she would bring them better crops and better lives. This is why the marble statue of Ba Chua Xu, meaning "country lady" is worshipped. In the festival, worshippers touch her statue and ask for her protection and benediction. Ba Chua Xu Temple Festival is the biggest folk festivity of Southern Vietnam.

During the days of the festival, various rituals are performed. On the first night, the statue of Ba Chua is bathed in perfumed water and she is also made to wear fresh robes for the occasion. Then Ba Chua's discarded garments are cut into little bits and handed out among the worshippers. These are considered lucky charms to keep the possessor in good health and drive away evil spirits.

Moreover, during the festival days, many traditional cultural activities are organised, including unicorn dance, dance with dishes and cups. Ba Chua Xu Temple Festival is rich in the national identity and the southern colours. Peace and tranquility, Ba Chua Xu Temple is one of the major religious sites in the Mekong Delta and attracts thousands of travellers who are flocking to An Giang Province to experience the one week festival and ask the famous goddess of wealth for a prosperous life.

Time: 23rd day to 25th day of 4th lunar month
Place: Bà Chúa Xứ Festival, Sam mountain, Châu Đốc district, An Giang province.
Object of worship: Ba Chua Xu, or Country Lady.