Rooted in the San Diu people's deep reverence for nature and ancestral spirits, the festival is held to pray for favorable weather, abundant harvests, and peaceful livelihoods. Beyond its ritual purpose, it also serves as a gathering point for strengthening bonds within the community and preserving cultural heritage across generations.

The event’s most striking highlights were the sacred blade-climbing and fire-walking ceremonies  -  physical trials that symbolize endurance, purity, and spiritual connection. Accompanied by rhythmic “Hanh quang” dancing and chanting, these rituals brought a sense of awe and unity to the occasion.

Complementing the spiritual rites were a series of traditional practices including altar-building, face-washing invocations, and the symbolic raising of the “Thi Phan” tree  -  all steeped in San Diu cosmology.

Festivities extended well beyond the ritual core, offering an open invitation to all. Visitors joined in singing “Soọng cô” folk tunes and partook in traditional games such as tug-of-war, blindfolded pot-breaking, stick pushing, and shuttlecock throwing.

The culinary experience was equally engaging. Community cooking competitions featured delicacies like gù sticky rice cakes and bạc đầu cakes, while guests enjoyed the traditional communal feasts that reflect the San Diu’s agricultural heritage.

A cultural exhibition featuring OCOP goods and regional specialties added a commercial and creative dimension, while a dress-up corner allowed tourists to don San Diu traditional costumes and engage with the aesthetics of the culture.

Together, these activities created a holistic cultural experience that not only honored San Diu spirituality, but also positioned Van Don as a vibrant destination for sustainable community-based tourism.

My Dung