Fishermen in Binh Dinh province are holding the Whale Worshiping Festival, a traditional ritual deeply rooted in the cultural identity of coastal communities.

The festival which has been held for hundreds of years, has been an important part in the life of Binh Dinh fishermen. During the festival, local people pray for good weather and abundant catches, and show gratitude to the Gods of the Sea and their ancestors.

Fishing villages across Binh Dinh each hold the festival in their own way, but all share the same sacred belief in the Gods of the Sea.

The festival usually lasts 2 to 3 days in the early lunar months, depending on the tides and weather. The main ceremony is held at Ong Temple, built by local fishermen to honor the whale.

The fishing festival features drums, gongs, a ceremonial band, and lion and dragon dances. Village elders and fishermen wear traditional ceremonial attire to show their respect.

Young people from the fishing villages take part in the folk "ba trao" performances that mimic rowing scenes to honor the journey to sea. These performances, seen as the 'soul' of the festival, are a tribute to the gods.

During the festival, fishermen dress as sea deities to pray for blessings, protection, and to ward off evil spirits.

Each ritual in the fishing festival reflects the unique culture of Binh Dinh’s fishing villages. One key ritual is the Sword Dancing, always performed with strength and precision to show its solemn and sacred nature.

The ceremony also includes the custom of carrying the deity’s tablet to the sea for a symbolic ‘tour,’ reflecting the harmony between humans and the ocean.

Fishermen of all ages take part in the festive atmosphere. For children, it’s a chance to learn how to honor the deities and develop a sense of cultural identity. For the elderly, it’s a moment to relive memories of life at sea.

In 2022, the Whale Worshiping festival in Nhon Ly fishing village (Quy Nhon City) was recognized as a national intangible cultural heritage.

The fishing festival is not just a cultural and religious event. It brings together faith, gratitude, community, and the hope for a good living. It also shows the close connection between people and the sea of Binh Dinh people.