This is the most unique traditional festival of ethnic minorities in Sapa district, Lao Cai province.

Thousands of spectators gathering in Ta Phin

When spring comes, Red Dao ethnic minority people in Sapa district, Lao Cai province, Vietnam, open the Hat Giao Duyen (courtship duets) festival, attracting thousands of visitors.

During the festival, there are traditional games, such as throwing a sacred ball through the ring (nem con), crossbow contests, pushing a cane, tug of war, blind-man’s-bluff and pole climbing.

See some images of the festival which took place on the eighth day of Lunar New Year in Ta Phin village.

Courtship duets

Dao ethnic dancing

 “Bringing the bride home”

Tug-of-war

Blind-man’s-bluff

Climbing a pole to take gifts

A Dao ethnic girl