Before the competitions, a ritual to worship the water god is held as locals pray for fair weather, bumper crops, and peace. (Photo: Vu Loi/VOV)

A large tray of offerings is prepared for the gods, which includes pork and chicken, sticky rice, flowers, fruits, and liquor. (Photo: Vu Loi/VOV)

A shaman with two assistants and 12 young women in traditional clothing conduct the ritual. (Photo: Vu Loi/VOV)

After the ritual finishes the race begins. (Photo: Vu Loi/VOV)

The lake bank roars with cheers from locals as the race proceeds. Gongs and drums across the village can be heard. (Photo: Vu Loi/VOV)

This year, the Muong Lay Swallowtail Boat Race features 19 teams, with 380 athletes from Son La, Lai Chau, and districts across Dien Bien. Local officials also participate in the race. (Photo: Vu Loi/VOV)

The competition features three events. 5 provincial teams of male athletes will compete in the first event to decide the 3 teams with the best time for the final. The second event is a mixed-gender race between 7 teams, while the third is a commune-level race between 7 teams of male athletes. Both 500-meter and 1-kilometer courses are laid out. (Photo: Vu Loi/VOV)

This year, Muong Lay commune has invested in 6 new racing boats made of composite materials, which are 18 meters in length, 0.45 meters in height, and 1.1 meter in width. The Swallowtail Boat Racing Festival reflects the locals’ spiritual needs. They submit their best work, but also look toward deities for good fortune in life. (Photo: Vu Loi/VOV)

The 4th National Paragliding Club Championship attracts 60 pilots, male and female, from 15 paragliding clubs nationwide. (Photo: Vu Loi/VOV)

Both events are highlights of Dien Bien National Tourism Year 2024… (Photo: Vu Loi/VOV)

… and help tourism to spearhead Dien Bien’s economy in the near future. (Photo: Vu Loi/VOV)