The First Ma Ethnic Folk Culture and Sports Festival in Cat Tien 3

This is an important event to honor, preserve and promote the unique traditional cultural values of the Ma ethnic people in the area.

In his opening remarks, Tran Quang Trung, Deputy Secretary of the Party Committee and Chairman of the People's Committee of Cat Tien 3 commune, highlighted that the festival serves as a platform for villages and traders to interact, exchange experiences, and strengthen solidarity among ethnic communities.

Additionally, it plays a vital role in preserving and promoting the traditional cultural heritage of the Ma ethnic group—a cultural treasure rich in identity nurtured over generations. This, in turn, helps reinforce community unity and contributes to the ongoing development of a stronger locality.

Right after the opening ceremony, teams from several villages and hamlets - Da Co, Bi Nao, Bu Sa, Bu Gia Ra, Be De, Hamlet 6 and Brun Village - excitedly engaged in various traditional folk sports such as tug of war, crossbow shooting, basket weaving, and brocade weaving.

The competitions unfolded in a vibrant atmosphere, attracting enthusiastic support from the local residents. The fierce contests and meticulously crafted handmade items vividly showcased the cultural life and spirit of unity within the Ma ethnic community.

In addition to the competitions, the exhibition area featuring traditional products and local OCOP products also attracted considerable attention from residents and visitors.

Many distinctive local products such as brocade textiles, handmade items, “Huong Rung” rice, honey, dried bananas, and traditional rice wine were introduced, helping promote the locality’s cultural and economic potential.

The organizing committee has announced that a variety of special events will take place in the evening, featuring cultural and musical exchanges, a procession of sacred objects, and rituals dedicated to honoring the Fire God and the Gong God, ensuring a festival ambiance deeply infused with ethnic cultural identity.

The inaugural Ma Ethnic Folk Culture and Sports Festival 2026 created a vibrant and meaningful environment while highlighting initiatives to preserve cultural heritage, foster pride, and enhance public understanding and commitment to protecting and promoting traditional values. This festival also plays a role in advancing the campaign “All People Unite to Build a Cultural Lifestyle,” aiding Cat Tien 3 Commune in its journey toward greater development, civilization, and a rich ethnic identity.