Co Lao ethnic group
Customs and habits
Each village has
about 15 to 20 households. The Co Lao houses are built level with the ground. A
patriarchal system has been adopted. During pregnancy, Co Lao women observe
strict abstinence to facilitate delivery and to give healthy babies. In Dong
Van District, people incinerate the placentas of new born babies. Three days
and nights after their birth, male babies are baptized by their parents.
Culture
The Co Lao language belongs to the
Kadai Group. Ceremonies and festivals are held on the 3rd day of the
3rd lunar month, the 5th day of the 5th lunar
month, the 15th day of the 7th lunar month, and the 9th day of the 9th lunar month.
The Lunar New Year Festival is the biggest festival of the year.
Costumes
Men wear trousers like many other
ethnic groups around the northern borders. Women also wear trousers and a
five-panel dress running below the knees. The dress buttons under the left
armpit and is decorated with bands of different colored cloth that are attached
to the chest from the middle to the right armpit along a fringed slit.
Economy
The Co Lao practice terraced farming and grow maize
in mountain rock hollows. Basketry and woodwork are popular handicrafts that
are produced by this group. The Co Lao are also known for their bamboo mats,
lattices, large winnowing baskets, panniers, tables, chairs, and horse
saddles.