This year's festival features the participation of 280 athletes from 10 teams representing communes and towns across Quỳnh Nhai District, along with teams from Mường La District and Mường Lay Town, Điện Biên Province. The teams compete in two categories: Men’s Team and Mixed Team (men and women), racing over a distance of 1,500 meters. This is the 12th time Quỳnh Nhai District has organized the Traditional Boat Racing Festival, featuring many seasoned athletes with experience in previous races and exceptional rowing skills, creating a highly competitive and exciting atmosphere.

Mr. Quàng Văn Chỉnh, from the Nặm Ét commune team, shared:
“I am very happy to participate in the 2025 Quỳnh Nhai boat racing festival. To prepare for the race, our team worked hard to coordinate smoothly in order to achieve the best possible result.”

The 2025 Traditional Boat Racing Festival of Quỳnh Nhai District is not only a sporting event but also a cultural symbol, a demonstration of solidarity, and a highlight in preserving and promoting the traditional values of the local ethnic communities. The teams delivered thrilling performances, reviving the local spirit of sportsmanship, perseverance, and unity. The traditional boat racing festival has become an indispensable part of the cultural and spiritual life of the local people. The races on the vast lake surface not only captivate the locals but also attract a large number of visitors from near and far. Tourists not only enjoy the vibrant festival atmosphere but also have the chance to admire the stunning natural beauty of the Sơn La hydropower reservoir.

Ms. Lò Thị Ngân, a tourist from Thuận Châu, shared:
“This is my fifth time coming to Quỳnh Nhai. Participating in the festival, I felt the atmosphere was very joyful and lively. The people here are very hospitable. This is truly a tourist destination worth visiting and experiencing.”

In the enthusiastic atmosphere of early spring and the New Year, more and more locals and tourists gather at the festival site, creating a bustling and festive ambiance. The organization of the traditional boat racing festival is not only aimed at preserving and promoting the traditional cultural values of the local ethnic groups but is also closely linked to boosting local tourism development.

Ms. Lường Thị Duyên, Vice Chairwoman of the Quỳnh Nhai District People’s Committee, said:
“This is a traditional festival held annually to foster a culture of physical training and sports among the people. At the same time, it helps maintain and preserve the identity of the district’s traditional festivals. In the coming time, Quỳnh Nhai District will continue to develop tourism products to attract more visitors.”

The festival is not only an occasion for the people of Quỳnh Nhai to revisit their long-standing customs and traditions but also a valuable opportunity to introduce and promote the district’s unique cultural features to both domestic and international visitors. Through this, the festival has contributed to drawing tourist attention and opening up opportunities for sustainable tourism development, particularly in eco-tourism associated with the majestic natural landscapes and the Sơn La hydropower reservoir.