The groundbreaking and earth-breaking ceremony is an important ritual in the beliefs of many people, especially in East Asia. This ceremony signifies the beginning of success and prosperity for the construction project.
Through the groundbreaking and earth-breaking ceremony, businesses can seek divine support and also take the opportunity to widely announce that construction of the project has begun.
Although the groundbreaking and earth-breaking ceremony is a simple event organized in a short time, it is very important and requires a professional event organizer to ensure the ceremony is conducted successfully and smoothly.
The Significance of Groundbreaking and Commencement Ceremonies
SaigonDance’s Rental Services for Lion Dance, God of Wealth, and Earth God Performances for Grand Openings, Groundbreaking Ceremonies, and More
According to idealistic beliefs, every piece of land has its own “Earth God” (thổ địa). Before undertaking any activity, it is necessary to ask for permission from the Earth God and hope for his protection over the project. The desire for “smooth sailing” and safety throughout the construction process is likely the factor that motivates Vietnamese people to organize groundbreaking ceremonies with great solemnity.
Organizing a groundbreaking ceremony is an activity deeply rooted in Vietnamese customs, traditions, and culture. It expresses respect for traditional elements and long-standing beliefs.
Key Rituals Commonly Used in Groundbreaking and Commencement Ceremonies
- Earth-scooping ceremony (typically used for groundbreaking)
- Sounding a horn or whistle to signal the commencement
- Releasing balloons
- Ribbon-cutting for inauguration ceremonies
Event organizers should be aware of some unwritten rules for these ceremonies, particularly when inviting VIP guests to participate in the rituals:
- The number of VIP guests invited to perform the rituals is usually 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, or 12.
- It’s generally advised to avoid inviting 4 or 7 people, especially for Chinese guests.
- This is because the pronunciation of the number 4 (sì) in Chinese sounds similar to “death” (sǐ), and 7 (qī) sounds like “loss” or “failure” (qī in “失败” shībài).
These considerations reflect cultural sensitivities and superstitions that are important in many Asian cultures, particularly in business and formal settings. By being mindful of these details, event organizers can ensure that the ceremony is respectful of cultural beliefs and creates a positive atmosphere for all participants.
Process for organizing groundbreaking and foundation-laying ceremonies
Verify construction commencement conditions according to construction law
Check the construction commencement conditions in accordance with construction law to avoid mistakes or legal complications that could affect the business.
Choose the date for the groundbreaking and foundation-laying ceremony
Select a date with good weather, compatible with the investor/constructor’s fortune, avoiding holidays or days considered unlucky for business according to local beliefs.
Obtain permits for organizing the groundbreaking and foundation-laying ceremony
After verifying and meeting all construction commencement conditions and choosing a suitable date for the ceremony, proceed with notifying and obtaining permits from relevant authorities to ensure the event complies with the law.
Preparations before the ceremony
- Compile a guest list and expected attendance numbers;
- Survey the location, conduct measurements, and clean the area;
- Design and print invitations, posters, backdrops, standees, organizing committee badges, etc.;
- Prepare necessary items, tools, machinery, and equipment for the groundbreaking and foundation-laying ceremony;
- Prepare entertainment performances for guests;
- Prepare food and beverages for guests.
Content of the groundbreaking and foundation-laying ceremony
The main parts include:
- Welcoming guests
- Opening with a lion and dragon dance performance or drum dance
- Welcome entertainment performances
- Introduction and declaration of the event’s purpose
- Introduction of delegates and guests
- Speeches by representatives of the contractor and investor
- Conducting the ceremony
If you need to organize a professional and well-structured groundbreaking and foundation-laying ceremony, don’t hesitate to contact SaigonDance for reliable services and peace of mind while working with them.
Some reasons why SaigonDance has become the choice of many businesses for event organization over the years:
- Employees always work on time and follow principles;
- Provides a team of beautiful dancers with attractive appearances that light up the stage, and good technical skills;
- Offers free information consultation for businesses interested in using SaigonDance’s dance group/troupe rental services;
- Reasonable prices, tailored to each customer’s requirements;
- Provides choreography for companies and creates dance routines on demand;
- Offers comprehensive event organization services;
- Provides personnel rental services (dancers, singers, hosts, MCs, DJs, event organization staff, etc.)
In addition to professional anniversary celebration services, SaigonDance Center can also provide many other services such as:
- Professional event organization services for various occasions (holidays, anniversaries, etc.);
- Event staffing services;
- Training and teaching services for various dance and sports disciplines (Yoga, Pilates, Belly Dance, Sexy Dance, Pole Dancing, Hoop Dancing, Hip-hop, etc.);
- Dance studio rental services in Ho Chi Minh City, Go Vap, and District 3;
- Performance costume rental services (various styles: belly dance, sexy dance, modern dance, etc.);
- Dance troupe/group rental services for programs and events;
- Choreography services (custom choreography for companies, etc.).
- To organize a successful program, feel free to entrust everything to SaigonDance.
- Contact us directly through the following channels for support, consultation, and detailed quotes for each customer’s requirements:
SaigonDance Center:
- Address 1: 94-96 Street No. 2, Do Thanh Residential Area, Ward 4, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City Phone: (8428) 38 329 429 – 0902 322 361
- Address 2: 4th Floor, 143 Nguyen Du, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City Phone: 0945 864 466
- Website: https://www.saigondance.vn/
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