Vibrant cultural traditions at Kim Lien temple festival 2026
From April 30 to May 2, the 2026 Kim Lien Temple Festival takes place, featuring highlights such as the recreation of the seven-tier ceremonial feast and the honoring of the traditional barbering craft.
From April 30 to May 2 (the 14th to 16th days of the third lunar month), the 2026 Kim Lien Temple Festival officially takes place in Phuong Lien Ward (Dong Da District, Hanoi). This is an important spiritual and cultural event honoring the values of one of the sacred “Thang Long Four Guardian Temples.”
A Special National Relic guarding the Southern gate
Kim Lien Temple, located at 148 Kim Hoa Street, is dedicated to Cao Son Dai Vuong—a supreme deity believed to be a son of Lac Long Quan and Au Co. The temple was built in 1509 under King Le Tuong Duc to commemorate his contributions to the nation and its people.
With its outstanding historical and architectural values, along with a collection of rare artifacts including ancient stone steles and 33 royal ordination decrees, the Thang Long Four Guardian Temples complex (including Kim Lien Temple) was recognized as a Special National Relic in early 2022.
Recreating the unique Seven-Tier Feast
The highlight of the main festival day (16th day of the third lunar month) is the ceremonial recreation of the seven-tier offering tray. This elaborate culinary work is prepared by two local family lineages and arranged on a sturdy square wooden frame. Beyond showcasing the culinary sophistication of old Hanoi, the feast symbolizes prayers for favorable weather and a prosperous life for the people.
In addition, an art program held on the evening of May 1 will offer a vibrant cultural space, featuring artists from the Vietnam National Traditional Theatre, under the direction of Meritorious Artist Loc Huyen.
Honoring the Traditional Barbering Craft
A distinctive feature of the Kim Lien Temple Festival is its connection to the barbering trade. According to historical accounts, Master Ta Ao passed down this craft to the people of Dong Lam village (now Kim Lien village). As part of the festival on April 30 and May 1, activities include:
An exhibition and exchange on the traditional barbering craft
A haircutting competition gathering artisans from across the country
Free haircut services for residents and visitors
On the main festival day (May 2), solemn rituals such as male and female ceremonies, the “Four Sacred Animals” dance, and the traditional palanquin procession will be held, bringing the festival to a close while preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of Thang Long—Hanoi, the thousand-year-old capital.
Hai Phong News