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First, folk games were very popular. During village festivals or Tết, children and adults played games like blindfolded goat catching, or breaking clay pots while blindfolded. There was also tug-of-war, a very communal game that brought people together. On summer days, kids would fly kites across the rice fields, feeling free and joyful.
Third, village festivals played a huge role in entertainment. People came together not just to worship, but also to play traditional games, dance, and watch performances. Games like bamboo-pole dancing, human chess, or wrestling sometimes happened in these festivals.
In reflecting on life in my neighbourhood 40 years ago, I realize that simplicity and close-knit community were not just ways of living—they were sources of strength and identity. Back then, people’s lives were grounded in tradition, in helping each other, and in a shared sense of belonging. By looking back, we don’t only honor our roots, but we also learn meaningful lessons for today: how to value human connection, live sustainably, and preserve cultural wisdom. Thank you for joining me on this journey through time.