The Imperial Citadel Shines Bright: Dazzling Mid-Autumn Festival Performances and Ancient Rituals.

This annual cultural event promises an unforgettable autumn experience for visitors to Hanoi.

0
488

Hanoi’s Thang Long Imperial Citadel (No. 19 Hoang Dieu Street, Ba Dinh District) is currently hosting a special exhibition titled “Happy Autumn Celebration,” organized by the Thang Long-Hanoi Heritage Conservation Center. This exhibition, which runs until September 15, celebrates the traditional Mid-Autumn Festival and offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Vietnam.



The traditional Mid-Autumn Festival at the Thang Long Imperial Citadel. Photo: Minh An/ The Hanoi Times

The exhibition is divided into two captivating themes: “Traditional Mid-Autumn Festival” and “Royal Mid-Autumn Festival,” each offering a unique perspective on this beloved holiday.

In the traditional display area, visitors will find a vibrant marketplace with a plethora of toys and masks for sale. Animal-shaped masks, iron ships, rabbit-beating drums, stuffed swans, tin toys, and colorful lanterns are just some of the delights on offer, reminiscent of a bygone era.

One of the exhibition’s highlights is the stunning display of ancient Mid-Autumn lanterns, meticulously restored by cultural researcher Trinh Bach and craftsman Nguyen Trong Binh. These lanterns, once a forgotten part of Vietnam’s cultural heritage, have been brought back to life with exquisite attention to detail.



Lanterns for the Mid-Autumn Festival. Photo: Huy Pham/The Hanoi Times

The exhibition also showcases a fascinating collection of documents and images that provide a glimpse into the Mid-Autumn Festival as it was celebrated during the Ly Dynasty (1009-1054), with a special focus on autumn water puppetry, a unique art form.

Adding to the festive cheer, a lively lion dance performance will take place on September 14 and 15. Visitors can also participate in hands-on activities, such as crafting their own Mid-Autumn toys, including lanterns of various shapes, painting masks, and even making traditional moon cakes. Toy-making workshops will be held from 8:30 to 11:30 and 14:00 to 17:00, offering a fun and educational experience for all ages.

The Thang Long Imperial Citadel, one of Hanoi’s most iconic tourist attractions, has also set up a special area for visitors to capture memorable photos with a unique twist. Illuminated by the warm glow of lanterns shaped like carp turning into dragons, as well as an array of other lantern designs, this photo opportunity is not to be missed.



The photo opportunity area at the Thang Long Imperial Citadel. Photo: An Ninh Thu Do

The Mid-Autumn Festival has been a significant part of Vietnamese culture since the 10th century, during the Ly Dynasty. It was celebrated with grandeur at the royal court and among the common people. The king would host a three-day celebration for the citizens, and the Thang Long Imperial Citadel would be adorned with exquisite flower lights and brocade decorations during this time.

Through the centuries and across feudal dynasties, the festival remained an integral part of Vietnam’s cultural fabric. Families would come together to prepare grand feasts during the day to honor their ancestors and indulge in lavish dinners in the evening, paying tribute to the moon.

Held on the 15th day of the 8th lunar month, the Mid-Autumn Festival is a cherished tradition in Hanoi and across Vietnam. It represents a time of celebration, family gatherings, and a deep connection to the country’s rich cultural heritage.

You may also like

Vietnam Military History Museum receives Fatherland Protection Order

NDO – The Vietnam Military History Museum held a ceremony in Hanoi on July 15 to celebrate its 60th anniversary (1956-2016) and receive the Fatherland Protection Order, first class.

Ancient house in Ma May

NDO – Ma May, a rare quarter that still retains several old houses, has created one of the characteristics of Hanoi. Hanoi’s streets are becoming increasingly crowded and traditional features can sometimes be hidden behind modern life. But if one takes the time to relax and look around, the ancient features begin to reveal themselves.

Hanoi, HCM City see good growth of tourism revenue

NDO – In the first ten months of 2016, the revenue of Ho Chi Minh City’s tourism industry amounted to VND80 trillion while Hanoi’s reached over VND50 trillion.

Book festival “Hanoi – City for Peace” opens

NDO – The Hanoi book festival with the theme “Hanoi – City for Peace” opened at the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long in Hanoi on October 2, as part of activities to celebrate the 65th anniversary of the capital’s Liberation Day (October 10, 1954-2019).

Russian Film Week opens in Hanoi

NDO – Russian film-lovers in Hanoi will have a chance to enjoy the country’s well-known films with free entrance from December 9 to 13 during the “Russian film week in Hanoi”.