On weekends, people from all over have flocked to Hang Ma area - a famous street specializing in selling decorations, lanterns, and Mid-Autumn Festival toys.
In just a few hours, every road leading here such as Hang Luoc, Hang Chieu, Phung Hung... was congested. Parking lots are packed, and there are almost no empty sidewalks.
Many families take their young children out, young people gather to take photos, and foreign tourists do not miss the opportunity to immerse themselves in the community to enjoy the unique Mid-Autumn Festival culture in Hanoi.
Mr. Pham Tung Duong (Hoan Kiem ward) said: "Although I am in Hanoi, it has been a long time since I returned to Hang Ma. The atmosphere was bustling but very crowded. I think tomorrow night there will be more".
Not only Hanoians, but also tourists from neighboring provinces take advantage of the Mid-Autumn Festival to play on the streets. The reason comes partly from the information that Typhoon Matmo is expected to make landfall in the North in the next few days.
"I was afraid that it was going to rain and wind, I couldn't go, so I went out today," said Ms. Tran Thi Dieu Linh (Ninh Binh).
The crowded scene made travel difficult. The surrounding streets are often congested.
Police forces, civil defense forces... were mobilized to divert traffic and remind people to maintain order. However, there were still jostling and illegal parking in the midst of a crowded crowd.
In addition to excitement, many parents are worried about losing their children. Many people have to carry a baby rope or always hold their children in their arms to ensure safety. Some traders continuously offer, introduce... because the number of shoppers has increased dramatically.
Traditional items such as foam lion heads, small drums, paper masks, star lanterns are still popular, while flashing lights and electronic toys are equally popular. In addition, food stalls such as candy stalls, candy stalls... also attract tourists, especially children.
As the night went on, the more people flocked to Hang Ma, the more crowded the stream of people was, almost only able to move step by step.
The weather forecast is about to change to thunderstorms from the night of October 5 due to the impact of storm No. 11 Matmo, the bustling atmosphere in Hang Ma becomes even more special.
Many families and groups of young people consider this an early Mid-Autumn Festival to enjoy the festive atmosphere and take advantage of the beautiful days before the weather changes to rain and wind due to storm No. 11 Matmo, outdoor activities are limited.
Although there are still inconveniences about traffic jams and crowds, for many people, immersing themselves in the sea of people on Hang Ma Street tonight is an indispensable experience every Mid-Autumn Festival.
Not only a place to shop, Hang Ma has become a cultural meeting place, a place to connect the community and preserve childhood memories for many generations.
