LAI CHÂU — Lai Châu Province is set to host its inaugural 'Pu Ta Leng Hoofbeats' horse racing festival in Tả Lèng Commune from September 27 to 28. The event aims to honour and preserve the rich cultural heritage of the indigenous Mông people while promoting local tourism.

The festival will feature 20 skilled jockeys from Tả Lèng and Sin Suối Hồ communes in Lai Châu, as well as from Bát Xát District in neighbouring Lào Cai Province, competing in thrilling horse races.

Alongside the main races, visitors can immerse themselves in a variety of exciting cultural and sporting activities, including the 'Conquer Tả Lèng Pine Hill' running contest, traditional games like tug-of-war, pounding sticky rice cakes and cooking Mèn Mén, a signature dish of the Mông people. There will also be showcases of OCOP products, traditional handicrafts, ethnic cuisine and folk games.

“The horse racing festival not only promotes the image of Tả Lèng and Lai Châu, but also strengthens cultural preservation, enhances community bonds and attracts tourists to explore the unique traditions of the Mông people,” said Phong Vĩnh Cường, Chairman of the Tả Lèng Commune People’s Committee.

“Our vision is to turn it into an annual professional event, integrated with the province’s tourism programmes for maximum impact,” he added.

With its blend of sportsmanship, tradition and festive spirit, the 'Pu Ta Leng Hoofbeats' festival promises to become a new cultural highlight of the northwest. — VNS