The Hanoi Autumn Festival persevered through floods and storms, and the resilient spirit paid off with a successful conclusion that left a lasting impression on all who attended. This festival was one of the many celebrations organized by Hanoi to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the capital’s liberation (October 10, 1954 – 2024).
This year, the festival united 12 provinces and cities from across Vietnam, along with 17 districts, towns, and cities within the capital itself. It also garnered the enthusiastic participation and support of various associations, clubs, and tourism and travel companies.
| The festival attracted a diverse crowd of 50,000 visitors, including a significant number of international tourists. Photo: Hoai Nam/The Hanoi Times |
At the closing ceremony on September 22, Nguyen Tran Quang, Deputy Director of the Hanoi Investment, Trade, and Tourism Promotion Center (HPA), shared that despite the challenging weather conditions, the festival was a resounding success. It captivated over 50,000 visitors with its rich and diverse offerings, including cultural performances, artisanal demonstrations, and unique experiences in Hanoi’s cultural spaces. The booths representing Hanoi’s localities and sectors also hosted engaging activities, such as letter-writing campaigns for children in mountainous areas and minigames with a twist of local exploration.
The festival witnessed the participation of prominent travel agencies, accommodation providers, and renowned travel brands like Vietnam Airlines, Hanoi Tourist, and Vietravel. These industry leaders not only showcased a myriad of tourism products but also offered promotional programs, making Hanoi’s tourism offerings more accessible and affordable for visitors.
Additionally, the festival featured exhibition areas that transported visitors back in time with miniature replicas of iconic Hanoi landmarks, such as the Hanoi Flag Tower, Hang Co Railway Station, Long Bien Bridge, and O Quan Chuong Gate. With the involvement of 12 provinces and cities and the collaboration of tour operators and associations, the event fostered opportunities for nationwide tourism development and cooperation.
| A vibrant display of conical hats from Chuong village, showcasing Vietnam’s cultural heritage. Photo: Hoai Nam/The Hanoi Times |
Beyond exhibitions and demonstrations, the festival also celebrated Hanoi’s culinary delights, with the Royal Chefs Association and culinary artisans from craft villages showcasing their skills. Traditional Hanoi dishes, such as green rice flakes, lotus tea, and coffee, were presented in a unique and captivating manner, paying homage to the capital’s diverse and innovative cuisine.
A highlight of the festival was the presence of Hanoi’s traditional trade villages, which not only produce exquisite handicrafts but also embody the rich history of Thang Long. Visitors had the opportunity to explore 15 exhibition areas showcasing the exceptional craftsmanship of 11 artisans from 11 famous craft villages in Hanoi. These included Bat Trang pottery, Ha Thai lacquerware, Ngu Xa bronze casting, and Chuong conical hats, among others.
The festival also marked the debut of several unique creations crafted especially for the 70th anniversary of the liberation of the capital. Among these were remarkable pieces by artisan Vu Manh Hai from Chau Khe jewelry village, artisan Nguyen Thanh Tuan from Ngu Xa bronze casting village, and artisan Do Van Cuong, whose “Autumn Lotus on Driftwood” captured the essence of Hanoi’s autumnal beauty.
Visitors immersed themselves in the tea culture of Hanoi, learned the art of crafting bamboo and rattan handicrafts, and discovered the secrets of lacquerware and hand-embroidered gifts. The event also demonstrated its commitment to social responsibility by raising funds for those affected by Super Storm Yagi, collecting VND288 million (US$12,000).
Nguyen Ha Anh, a visitor from Ho Chi Minh City, shared her delight in attending the festival, stating that it offered a comprehensive glimpse into Hanoi’s culture and tourism attractions. “During my short stay in Hanoi, I had planned to visit some famous sites. However, this festival introduced me to the city’s craft villages, and I was able to experience the tea culture and purchase gifts for my family back home,” she enthused.
| A serene and inviting space dedicated to tea culture at the festival. Photo: Hoai Nam/The Hanoi Times |
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