Opening of Ly Nam De Temple Festival - Spring 2026

Amid the joyful atmosphere of the early spring days, on the morning of February 28 (the 12th day of the first lunar month of 2026 Lunar Year), a solemn ceremony was held at the National Historical Site of Muc Temple, located in Van Xuan Ward, Thai Nguyen Province, to open the Festival of “Van Xuan – Founding of the Nation”, commemorating the 1,482nd anniversary of Emperor Le Nam De’s ascension to the throne.

Overview of “Van Xuan – Founding of the Nation” Festival, commemorating the 1,482nd anniversary of Emperor Le Nam De's ascension to the throne.

This marks the first time the festival has been organized on a large and methodical scale, reflecting the deep respect of the Party organization, authorities, and people of Thai Nguyen Province for the historical value of this site, while affirming the stature of the homeland of the first emperor of Vietnam.

According to historical records, in 542, Ly Bi united local leaders and led an uprising, achieving a resounding victory and sweeping the Liang dynasty's army out of our country. On the 12th day of the first lunar month of 544 Lunar Year, he proclaimed himself “Nam De”, adopted the reign title Thien Duc, and named the country Van Xuan, ushering in a prolonged period of independence and laying the foundation for national consciousness and the enduring aspiration for self-reliance in subsequent dynasties.

To honor his contributions, local people established a temple in his homeland and designated the 12th day of the first lunar month each year as the main festival day. In 2014, Muc Temple was recognized as a National Historical Site. In 2024, the complex was renovated and upgraded, creating a more dignified setting worthy of its historical significance.

This year’s festival features traditional processions, incense offerings in tribute to Emperor Ly Nam De, ceremonial drum performances, an artistic program, traditional martial arts displays, and folk games, attracting large numbers of residents and visitors.

Thai Nguyen Province aims to develop the festival into an annual provincial-level cultural event, contributing to the preservation of historical traditions, the promotion of Thai Nguyen’s image, and the spreading of pride in the nation’s independent origins.