The Hanoi Festival of Creative Design 2024, with the theme “Creative Intersection,” is an upcoming event offering a unique and inspiring experience. Scheduled from November 9 to 17, the festival celebrates the fusion of tradition and modernity, igniting creativity and honoring artistic heritage.
A Melding of Old and New
| Get ready for a captivating journey as this year’s festival unveils exciting blends of Hanoi’s rich heritage and contemporary flair. Photo: Le Hoi Thiet Ke Sang Tao Ha Noi |
Hosted by the Hanoi People’s Committee and the Vietnam Association of Architects Hanoi, this annual festival embodies the city’s commitment to creativity and its initiatives with UNESCO as a member of the Creative Cities Network.
A unique feature of this year’s event is the introduction of a gifted crossroads, connecting iconic historical sites across the capital, offering a new perspective on Hanoi’s cultural landscape.
The main hub of the festival is August Revolution Square, with its axes stretching across the city. The chosen area encompasses symbolic locations such as the Hanoi Children’s Palace, State Guest House, Hanoi Opera House, Vietnam National History Museum, Hanoi University, and five renowned flower gardens, each with its distinct architectural charm.
| The map showcases the “Creative Intersection” concept, uniting various creative hubs across Hanoi. Photo: Page Le hoi Thiet Ke Sang Tao Ha Noi |
Unleashing Hanoi’s Innovative Spirit
The festival kicks off with a vibrant “Street Market Parade” on November 9 at 7:30 PM at August Revolution Square, in front of the iconic Hanoi Opera House.
The opening ceremony, themed “Intersection,” draws inspiration from the ancient urban fabric of Thang Long, celebrating the seamless intersection of the city’s past and present.
It will feature a one-of-a-kind 360-degree stage, incorporating tangible and intangible elements of Hanoi’s cultural tapestry, from architecture and streets to memories, festivals, and traditional knowledge. This immersive experience showcases the community’s creative energy and their dedication to preserving and evolving Vietnamese culture.
Over nine days, the festival will present 100 captivating activities across the city. Attendees can explore space models at the Hanoi Children’s Palace and the Vietnam National History Museum, wander through flower gardens, and discover hidden gems along the festival routes.
A diverse range of performing arts will also be on offer, including folk dances, intangible cultural heritage showcases, local cinema, theater, circus acts, and fashion collections by emerging designers.
A Fitting Tribute to Hanoi’s Creative Spirit
| Hanoi Creative Design Festival attracts young audiences, fostering a new generation of creative thinkers. |
According to Bui Hoai Son, a permanent member of the National Assembly’s Committee on Culture and Education, Hanoi has cultivated an imaginative environment, raising awareness and engaging the community in creative endeavors.
The city actively fosters innovation by encouraging participation from all stakeholders in a visionary process. This collaborative approach has led to a vibrant ecosystem where ideas and initiatives thrive.
“Hanoi has played the role of an ‘inventive conductor,’ with its influence reaching many localities. The cities of Hoi An and Dalat joined UNESCO’s Creative Cities Network following the capital’s lead,” said Son.
He added, “The festival is a meaningful way to strengthen Hanoi’s image as a creative and cultural hub. With its growing scale and diverse themes, it has become a beloved gathering for innovation enthusiasts and culture aficionados.”
| “The Call” installation by Thu Tran at the 2023 festival captures the essence of creative intersections in a historic setting. |
Le Cong Nang, General Director of WonderTour, emphasizes the festival’s potential for “combining tradition and modernity” through heritage tours. He suggests that Hanoi develop tours showcasing its historical attractions and cultural offerings during the festival.
“Heritage exploration tours offer a deeper connection to the city’s past and present. They enhance the visitor experience and embody the innovative spirit of the festival,” added Nang.
The annual festival inspires artistic expression, encourages young designers and creators to connect, and supports inspired spaces. It also aims to facilitate the establishment of a Coordinating Center for Inventive Activities in the near future.
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