Exploring the Beauty of Vietnamese Folk Culture

Legends and Stories: The Origins of Culture

Vietnamese folk culture is a priceless treasure, passed down through thousands of years of history. Legends and stories not only entertain but also carry profound lessons about morality, compassion, and the indomitable spirit of the nation. From the legend of Son Tinh – Thuy Tinh, which reflects the desire to conquer nature, to the story of Chu Dong Tu – Tien Dung, which tells of love overcoming all obstacles, each story contributes to a diverse and rich cultural picture.

Proverbs and Folk Songs: The Philosophy of Life of the Vietnamese People

Proverbs and folk songs are the essence of folk wisdom, distilled from daily life experiences. Sweet and heartfelt folk songs express love for the homeland, family affection, and romantic love. Proverbs, with their concise and succinct sentences, contain valuable lessons about life, ethics, and society. “Ăn quả nhớ kẻ trồng cây” (Remember the one who planted the tree when you eat the fruit), “Một cây làm chẳng nên non, ba cây chụm lại nên hòn núi cao” (One tree doesn’t make a forest, three trees together make a mountain) are typical proverbs, reflecting the spirit of community and gratitude.

Folk Music and Songs: The Voice of the Homeland

Vietnamese folk music is diverse and rich, with different folk song melodies depending on the region. From the leisurely singing styles on the waterways of the Mekong Delta, to the lyrical melodies of Central Vietnam, each melody has its own beauty, reflecting the soul and life of the people there. Hat Xam, Ca Tru, Quan Ho are typical forms of folk art, recognized by UNESCO as intangible cultural heritage of humanity.

Festivals: The Connection Between Humans and Nature

Festivals are an integral part of the spiritual and cultural life of the Vietnamese people. Traditional festivals such as Tet Nguyen Dan (Lunar New Year), Hung Temple Festival, and Gio Ong Festival… are not only occasions for people to gather, play and relax, but also opportunities to commemorate heroes and deities, showing gratitude to ancestors and praying for a peaceful and happy new year. Each festival has its own unique color, reflecting the unique cultural beauty of each region.

Preservation and Development of Folk Culture

In the present day, the preservation and development of folk culture is extremely important. We need practical measures to preserve traditional cultural values, while at the same time creating and renewing forms of folk art, bringing them closer to younger generations.