Katê Festival celebrates Cham cultural heritage in Vietnam

The Katê Festival, a major cultural event for the Cham community, is recognized as a national intangible cultural heritage. The festival serves as a significant period for community cohesion, family reunions, and the preservation of traditional Cham arts.

Key activities include solemn ceremonies at temple towers, followed by celebrations in villages and homes. The festival features traditional music with instruments such as the Baranưng drum, Ghinăng drum, and Saranai horn. Cultural displays include traditional dances, such as fan dances and water-carrying dances, and the ceremonial handing over of sacred garments between the Raglai and Cham people.

Additionally, the festival highlights traditional crafts, including My Nghiep brocade weaving and Bau Truc pottery. The Khanh Hoa Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism is coordinating activities to promote local tourism and preserve these cultural values.