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Sample research report on traditional folk games in Vietnamese festivals

I. Introduction

Folk games are an important part of the traditional culture of Vietnamese people. These games not only bring joy but also deeply reflect cultural values, unity, and community education. In Vietnamese festivals, folk games not only create a fun and exciting atmosphere but also help bond the community, preserve and promote traditional values. This report will study the prominent folk games in Vietnamese festivals, their gameplay, equipment, and origins.

II. Prominent Folk Games in Festivals

Tug of War

Game Description: Tug of war is one of the prominent folk games in Vietnamese festivals, especially during Tet Nguyen Dan and community festivals. This game not only helps in physical exercise but also showcases team spirit and coordination among team members.

Game Equipment: A sturdy, long, and durable rope.

Gameplay: The game usually involves two teams. Each team stands at one end of the rope and tries to pull the opponent over the marked line. The team that pulls the rope over the line first wins. This game requires not only strength but also teamwork and strategy.

Bamboo Dance

Game Description: Bamboo dance is a folk game rich in artistic expression and is very popular in Vietnamese festivals, especially in rural areas. This game is often played during Tet holidays, early spring festivals, or community events.

Game Equipment: Two long sticks (bamboo or wood) used to hit the ground creating a rhythm.

Gameplay: Players stand between the two sticks and jump back and forth in a way not to touch the sticks as they are hit down. The stick bearers gradually increase the rhythm, requiring the dancer to speed up to avoid stumbling. This game requires agility and skill, as well as rhythmic coordination with the sticks' beat.

Swings

Game Description: Swinging is a popular game in Vietnamese festivals, especially during Tet Nguyen Dan. This game is not only entertaining but also holds the meaning of wishing blessings, luck, and prosperity.

Game Equipment: A swing made from bamboo or wood, hung from poles or strong ropes.

Gameplay: Players sit on the swing and gently push with their feet to create a swinging motion. This game symbolizes wishes for peace, health, and a prosperous new year.

Dry Land Boat Racing

Game Description: This is a popular game in the Red River Delta region, held in festivals like the Huong Pagoda Festival, Lim Festival, or during Tet. The game simulates rowing activities on water but is performed on land.

Game Equipment: Mock boats (made of bamboo or wood) and oars.

Gameplay: Players are divided into two teams, sit on the mock boats, and coordinate rowing to reach the finish line fastest. This game not only provides entertainment but also reflects the lifestyle of the riverine communities.

Blindfolded Catching Goats

Game Description: Blindfolded catching goats is a familiar folk game, especially popular in children's festivals like Mid-Autumn Festival. This game brings joy and helps develop agility, judgment, and unity among community members.

Game Equipment: A scarf or cloth to blindfold the player.

Gameplay: One person is blindfolded and tries to catch the other players, while they move around to avoid being caught. The person caught will replace the blindfolded position. This game helps children practice quick reflexes and teamwork.

III. Origin and Development of Folk Games

Folk games in Vietnamese festivals originate from the daily labor and lifestyle activities of the people. Games like tug of war or dry land boat racing reflect the work in rural life, where people must use strength and coordination to complete tasks. Bamboo dance and swinging have origins in rites honoring bountiful harvests, blessings, and peace for the community. These games gradually became indispensable parts of traditional festivals, representing not only joyfulness but also aspirations for prosperity and good fortune.

Folk games also evolve from festivals honoring community cultural values. These activities foster interaction and connection across generations, maintaining and promoting national traditional values.

IV. Conclusion

Folk games in Vietnamese festivals are not merely a form of entertainment but also an indispensable part of the cultural life of the community. Games like tug of war, bamboo dance, dry land boat racing, swinging, and blindfolded catching goats not only bind people during festivals but also convey deep cultural values, preserving the beautiful traditions of the nation. Sustaining and promoting these games in modern life will contribute to preserving and enriching the cultural heritage of the Vietnamese people.

References:

Nguyen Thi Hong, "Vietnamese Folk Games and Cultural Values," Culture Information Publishing House, 2017.

Phan Thi Thanh, "Folk Games in Vietnamese Festivals," Journal of Culture and Arts, 2019.

Nguyen Duc Hiep, "Folk Games and Humanistic Values in Festivals," Journal of Folk Culture, 2020.

Tran Van Chi, "Cultural Heritage in Traditional Vietnamese Festivals," Pedagogical University Publishing House, 2018.

Dang Thi Minh Tam, "Restoration and Preservation of Folk Games in Contemporary Life," Journal of Culture and Arts, 2022.