On the morning of September 21, the traditional Do Son Buffalo Fighting Festival kicked off at the central stadium in Do Son district, Hai Phong, with 16 buffaloes fiercely competing in front of thousands of enthusiastic spectators.

In his opening speech, Tran Khac Kien, Chairman of the People’s Committee of Do Son district, emphasized the deep cultural significance of the festival.

He explained that the Do Son Buffalo Fighting Festival is a long-standing tradition linked to the worship of water deities and sacrificial rituals. It reflects the bravery and martial spirit of the local coastal people as they strive to conquer nature and master the seas, praying for favorable weather, abundant harvests, and prosperity.

Having been restored and developed over the past 35 years, the festival has grown in both size and quality, while preserving its original folk elements and cultural values. In 2012, the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism recognized it as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage.

This year, the festival features 16 buffaloes from six wards in the district. Each ward entered two buffaloes, with the top competitors from the previous year allowed to submit an additional entry. Among the competitors, three buffaloes weigh approximately 1.2 tons, while the others weigh around 1 ton each.

As the festival drum sounded, signaling the start of the event, the buffaloes entered the ring, greeted by the cheers and excitement of the large crowd.

The festival delivered a thrilling spectacle, with intense battles showcasing strategic blows and fierce competition. The crowd erupted with excitement, cheering on their favorite "warrior buffaloes" as they fought for victory in this unique cultural celebration.

Trong Tung