Christmas eve in Sapa

Sapa is also known for its terraced fields, waterfalls, and majestic mountains and it is also home to several ethnic minority communities, the most prominent are the Hmong, Dao, Tay, Giay, and Xa Pho. These groups have their own distinct cultures, traditions, languages, and their ways of life that have been preserved for centuries.

Sapa city center and the main plaza area.

Notre Dame cathedral in the center surrounded by Ham Rong mountain. Notre Dame Cathedral was built by the French and according to historical records, the construction of the church and was completed in 1935 over a decade of construction. During the Japanese occupation (1940-1945) and subsequent wartime activities, the church had to be closed. It remained unused and even served as a storage facility for rice and agricultural produce. In 1995, local officials launched a campaign to preserve this important historical property. It was then that the parishioners could return to their cherished church and restart their religious practices.

The cathedral can be seen afar because of the 66ft. high bell tower. Inside this tower hangs a remarkable 1100 pound bell that has withstood the test of time for over 80 years without any damage. The most captivating aspect of the Sapa Stone Church is its graceful bell tower, shaped like a cross and facing west towards the birthplace of Christ.

Huge Christmas tree on the cathedral parking lot.

Dinner

We decided to eat at our hotel for Christmas Eve.

I only took a few pictures of our food.

Fried shrimps and spring rolls.

Heo Quay (BBQ pig)

I am really impressed of how the Vietnamese prepare hot tea. They always add dried flowers and dried fruits, and I really enjoyed the flavor.

After dinner we went Downtown.

From across the street you can see the cathedral and bell tower brightly lit.

Main plaza

The main plaza is all decorated for Christmas.

It was such a cold night but al lot of people are hanging out close to the Cathedral.

The Notre Dame Cathedral is the main base of Sapa Parish, where 4,600 parishioners, mostly H’mong ethnic people, gather for religious activities. Parishioners also come here for Sunday Mass.

People waiting for Midnight mass.

The history of Christmas in Vietnam dates back to the 17th century when the first Catholic missionaries arrived in the country. Initially, Christianity was met with resistance from the ruling dynasties, who viewed it as a foreign and potentially subversive religion. However, over time, Christianity gained a foothold in Vietnam, particularly in the southern regions.

By the late 19th century, Christmas had become a significant celebration among Vietnamese Catholics, who were primarily concentrated in the southern provinces. The French colonization of Vietnam further facilitated the spread of Catholicism and Christmas customs. During this period, Christmas became a symbol of French culture and influence in Vietnam.

A nun leading the choir.

They are actually really good.

The choir performing Christmas carol.

We are all bundled up! Such a cold evening.

Today, Christmas in Vietnam is celebrated by both Christians and non-Christians alike. Major cities like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi are decked out in festive lights and decorations, and shopping malls and department stores are filled with Christmas shoppers. While the religious aspects of Christmas remain important to many Vietnamese Christians, the holiday has also become a time for family gatherings, gift-giving, and general merriment.

Nativity scene.

The evolution of Vietnamese Christmas traditions reflects the country’s changing social and cultural landscape. From its initial association with French colonialism to its current status as a popular commercial holiday, Christmas has adapted and transformed, becoming an integral part of Vietnam’s festive calendar.

We are now leaving the Cathedral.

View of the Cathedral from the main plaza.

Fake snow flowing.... the kids love it.

We met up with our drive at the Sun plaza.

The building is really nice at night.

NEXT... Trekking in Muong Hoa Valley