A performance at the opening ceremony of The Mong Panpipe Festival and the Culinary Festival of 3 regions across Vietnam, Ha Giang, April 21, 2023. (Photo: dangcongsan.vn)

The 3-day festival highlighted the cultures of various ethnic minorities and unique cuisine of Vietnam’s northern, central, and southern regions. Participants joined performances and shared panpipe making skills.  

“I’m very glad but also feel anxious to perform on such a large stage. I want more people to know our ethnic group and customs,” said panpipe player Giang A Nang of Lao Cai province.

“This is an opportunity to exchange experiences and promote the Mong’s panpipes,” said musician Giang Mi Lung of Ha Giang province.

Visitors Vu Thị Uyen of Ha Noi and Pham Van Trong of Hai Phong city said they were mesmerized by the magic sound of the Mong panpipe and Ha Giang as a whole.         

“I’m deeply impressed by Ha Giang and will look for more events like this,” said Uyen.

“I’m so happy to attend the festival. Ha Giang has changed a lot,” said Trong.

The panpipe is a symbol of Mong culture. Ha Giang’s panpipe  art was recognised as a national intangible cultural heritage in 2015.