Where is the Mud Ball Wrestling Festival held?
The Mud Ball Wrestling Festival takes place in Van Village, Viet Yen District, Bac Giang Province, about 50 km from Hanoi. The heart of the festival is the courtyard of Tam Giang Temple, a sacred site that transforms into a mud-filled wrestling arena for the event.
This location is deeply tied to the festival’s history. According to legend, Saint Tam Giang and his warriors once fought in a swamp, using strength and strategy to defeat evil forces. The festival recreates this legendary battle, blending spirituality, tradition, and physical competition in a way that has captivated generations.
What to expect: The festival experience
The rituals before the game
Before the chaos begins, the festival opens with a worship ceremony at Tam Giang Temple. Villagers gather to offer prayers and traditional offerings, honoring Saint Tam Giang, the guardian spirit of the region. This ritual seeks blessings for strength, fair competition, and a prosperous year ahead.
After the ceremony, the players take part in a special pre-match ritual, where they drink three half-full cups of wine, eat watermelon, and drink tea. This tradition is believed to energize the wrestlers and show their respect for the festival’s history before stepping onto the muddy battlefield.
The mud ball wrestling match
Once the preparations are complete, the real action begins. Two teams of eight men, dressed only in loincloths, step onto the mud-covered wrestling field. In the center lies a 20kg wooden ball, and the objective is simple—push the ball into the opponent’s hole at the far end of the field.
But in reality, it’s anything but simple. The deep mud makes movement difficult, and the teams engage in an intense, strategic battle, using strength, teamwork, and sheer determination to wrestle control of the ball. The struggle is fierce, slippery, and wildly entertaining for spectators.
The aftermath: mud-covered celebrations
When the match ends, the excitement doesn’t stop. The crowd rushes onto the field, covering themselves in mud in a joyful, almost chaotic celebration. This isn’t just for fun—it’s a tradition believed to bring good fortune and a successful rice harvest. By the end of the festival, everyone—players and spectators alike—is drenched in mud, making for an unforgettable experience.
When is the mud ball wrestling festival held?
The Mud Ball Wrestling Festival is a rare event, taking place only once every four years. It is held on the 12th to 15th day of the fourth lunar month, which usually falls in May. Because of its infrequent schedule, the festival is even more special, drawing large crowds of locals and visitors eager to witness this unique tradition. If you plan to experience it, checking the exact dates in advance is essential.
How to get to the festival
From Hanoi
- The most convenient way to reach Van Village is by renting a private car with a driver from Hanoi. This takes about 1.5 to 2 hours and allows for a hassle-free journey directly to the festival.
- If you prefer public transport, take a bus from Hanoi to Bac Giang City. Several buses run daily from My Dinh or Gia Lam Bus Station in Hanoi, with a journey time of 1 to 1.5 hours.
From Bac Giang City
- Once in Bac Giang City, you have two main options to reach Van Village (about 15 km away):
- Rent a motorbike in Bac Giang for a more flexible and adventurous trip. Some local shops offer daily rentals.
- Take a taxi or Grab for a quick and easy ride directly to Tam Giang Temple, where the festival takes place.
Since the festival only happens every four years, booking transport in advance is recommended, especially for private cars and motorbike rentals.
Travel tips for attending the festival
What to wear
- Expect to get muddy! Wear light, comfortable clothing and shoes you don’t mind getting dirty. Some visitors even bring a change of clothes.
Best viewing spots
- The edges of the wrestling field offer the best views of the action. Arriving early helps secure a good spot before the crowds gather.
Photography tips
- The festival is fast-paced and messy, so protect your camera from the mud. A waterproof cover or a smartphone in a clear protective case is a good idea.
Local food & experiences
- While in Van Village, try local specialties like bánh đa kê (sesame rice crackers) and bánh gio (sticky rice dumplings).
- After the festival, you can explore other historical sites in Viet Yen District, such as Bo Da Pagoda, one of the oldest pagodas in northern Vietnam.
