Kite flying is a traditional folk game in Vietnam, especially popular among children in rural areas. This activity not only brings joy but also fosters creativity and a connection with nature. The image of kites soaring in the sky has become a cherished memory for many generations.
A kite flute is a type of Vietnamese folk musical instrument, usually attached to a kite to create sound while flying in the air. The kite flute is shaped like a small flute tube, made from bamboo, reed, or plastic, with a reed and sound holes that produce its distinctive tone when wind passes through.
Kite flutes come in many different sizes, from small to large, and a single kite can carry one or several flute tubes to create a variety of sounds. This is a traditional cultural practice, especially common in the northern plains regions such as Nam Định, Thái Bình, and Hải Phòng.
In Vietnam, numerous kite festivals are held annually, attracting both locals and tourists. For instance, the Bá Dương Nội village, located in Hanoi, has a thousand-year-old tradition of kite making and hosts an annual kite festival on the 15th day of the third lunar month. This festival features traditional Vietnamese kites known as “diều sáo,” which have bamboo flutes attached that produce melodic sounds when flown. The event draws kite enthusiasts from various provinces, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the region.
Another notable event is the Hội An Kite Festival, held from June 24 to June 30 at An Bàng Beach and Tân Thành Beach. During this festival, the sky is filled with colorful kites of various shapes and sizes, creating a vibrant spectacle for attendees.
These festivals not only preserve and promote the traditional art of kite making and flying but also provide a communal space for people to gather, celebrate, and appreciate the cultural significance of kites in Vietnamese society.
For a visual glimpse into the unique thousand-year-old kite flute village, you can watch the following video: