The festival is a feast for the senses: bustling crowds, young women in their finest traditional attire, the soulful melodies of the khèn (panpipes), and the sparkle of joy in every eye as colourful pao balls fly through the air. Together, these moments create a unique experience that has made the Điện Biên Đông Spring Festival a cherished tradition, welcoming the new year with energy, culture, and delight.

The 2025 Ất Tỵ Spring Festival in Điện Biên Đông is set to take place from January 30 to February 1, 2025 (the 2nd to 4th days of the Lunar New Year), featuring a wide range of exciting cultural and sporting activities that highlight the rich traditions of the highland ethnic communities.

Key events include bullfighting competitions, traditional costume showcases, khèn (panpipe) performances, sticky rice cake pounding, bánh chưng wrapping contests, and various sports competitions. These activities will be spread across the district’s streets, stadium, and outdoor stages in the centre of Điện Biên Đông.

Among the cultural and sporting activities, the highlight is the traditional bullfighting competition, which brings together strong, resilient bulls carefully selected from within and beyond the district. More than just a competition of strength, the event is an opportunity for locals to unwind, celebrate their livestock-raising achievements, and enjoy the festive spirit after a year of hard work.

Nguyễn Văn Tăng, Vice Chairman of the Điện Biên Đông District People’s Committee, said: “The Điện Biên Đông Spring Festival is a vibrant series of competitions and cultural exchanges that showcase the unique traditions and daily life of the local people. Among these, the annual bullfighting competition stands out as a key highlight of the district.”

To establish the event as a signature attraction, the district has actively promoted it through social media and other communication channels. Efforts have been made to expand its reach, turning the competition into a meaningful and engaging event for the entire Northwest region. This year, participation has extended beyond the district and province, with bull owners from neighbouring areas such as Sơn La already registered for the 2025 Ất Tỵ Spring Festival.

According to recent reports, more than 60 bulls will compete in this year’s event, with the highest number of entries coming from Phì Nhừ and Sa Dung communes.

Trá Giống Trư, Vice Chairman of Phì Nhừ Commune People’s Committee, said: “This year, Phì Nhừ Commune plans to enter 13 pairs of bulls into the competition. These bulls have been carefully selected and well looked after, promising thrilling matches for locals and visitors alike. After the festival, the finest bulls are chosen for breeding to improve local livestock quality. As a result, the movement to raise strong, healthy bulls for the festival has gained significant support among our residents.”

Each cultural participant and local resident plays an essential role in developing and promoting the Điện Biên Đông Spring Festival as a signature annual event.

Vàng A Vy, a resident of Chua Ta B Village, Phì Nhừ Commune, and a prize winner in the 2024 bullfighting competition, said: “After my family’s bull won, many bull owners from inside and outside the province asked about my training and care techniques to raise strong, resilient bulls. Through conversations, sharing, and learning from one another, I hope more people will join the competition and experience this unique early-year tradition of the highlands.”

The Điện Biên Đông Spring Festival is expected to contribute to improving the socio-economic life of the region, providing a wholesome recreational space and creating an attractive tourism product to draw visitors.

With the joint efforts of local authorities, organisations, and ethnic communities, the Điện Biên Đông Spring Festival is gradually establishing its reputation, carving out its unique identity with the rich cultural traditions of the highlands.

Trần Nhâm