On March 19, 2026, the opening ceremony of the Quynh Lam Pagoda Festival 2026 was officially held in a solemn and reverent atmosphere at Quynh Lam Pagoda (Binh Khe Ward, Quang Ninh Province). It is one of the typical traditional festivals associated with the Tran Dynasty Special National Relic Area, attracting the participation of numerous delegates, monks, Buddhists, and local residents.

Attending the opening ceremony were representatives of provincial departments, agencies, and sectors; the Management Board of Ha Long Bay – Yen Tu World Heritage Site; the Executive Board of the Vietnam Buddhist Sangha of the province; local authorities, along with a large number of residents. The presence of delegates and visitors contributed to a solemn atmosphere, while also demonstrating their interest in preserving and promoting traditional cultural heritage values.

The opening ceremony was with a full range of traditional rituals, including a welcome art performance, ceremonial drumming, the flag-saluting ceremony, the statement of purpose, the opening speech, the drum-beating and bell-ringing ritual to inaugurate the festival, and a prayer for national peace and prosperity. These rituals were conducted in a well-organized manner, contributing to the honoring of distinctive spiritual and cultural values associated with the long-standing historical site.

Quynh Lam Pagoda is well known as one of the largest Buddhist centers of the Dai Viet state during the Tran Dynasty, associated with the establishment and development of the Truc Lam Zen sect. Over nearly a millennium, the pagoda has continued to play an important role in the cultural and spiritual life of local residents, while also becoming an attractive spiritual destination for both domestic and international visitors.

This year’s festival takes place over three days, from March 19 to 21, 2026, featuring a variety of distinctive activities in both the ceremonial and festive parts, including processions, the water procession ritual, artistic performances, sports activities, and traditional folk games.

Investment, Trade and Tourism Promotion Agency