A ceremonial wrestling rite is held in front of the communal house before the official opening of Sinh Village wrestling festival

Sinh Village wrestling festival opens with a ritual paying homage to the village tutelary deity, followed by ceremonial bouts performed by local youths and young men.

Following the conclusion of the ceremonial rites, the wrestling festival officially begins to the resounding drumbeats of the village elders.

As in previous years, competitors on the wrestling mat are not limited to local residents; anyone present may register to participate, provided they have the spirit and physical fitness required.

During the matches, Sinh wrestling festival follows traditional Vietnamese folk wrestling rules and upholds the spirit of sportsmanship. Wrestlers must keep their feet on the ground (“túc bất ly địa”), any competitor whose back touches the ground (“lấm lưng, trắng bụng”) is declared the loser.

“To date, Sinh Village wrestling festival boasts a history of more than 400 years. The folk verse “wherever one may go, on the 10th day, let you return to Sinh for the wrestling festival” reflects the community’s enduring commitment to preserving and promoting its traditional celebration,” said Mr. Pham Cong Nhuan, head of the Sinh Village Council of Elders.

Following are some photos taken at Sinh Village Wrestling Festival 2026:

 Spectators arrive from early morning
 An impressive performance by female wrestlers from the City Sports Training and Competition Center
 The festival officially opened with bouts featuring teenage wrestlers
 This is followed by young adult wrestlers taking to the arena, showcasing powerful, skillful, and visually striking techniques
 Whether locals or visiting spectators, anyone can step onto the arena
 Sinh Village Wrestling Festival takes place over the course of a full day
With its strong appeal and martial spirit, the wrestling festival draws large crowds of spectators of all genders and ages 
By Han Dang - Le Hoang