As part of the "Lưu trăng cổ phố 2026" series of activities taking place in Hanoi's Old Quarter, the art exhibition "Lưu trăng" is becoming a destination attracting a large number of tourists.
The exhibition introduces artifacts and models of Mid-Autumn toys researched, restored, and created by young people.
Familiar images of the old moonlit season such as star lanterns, carp lanterns, crab lanterns, shrimp lanterns, mantis lanterns, military lanterns, solar lanterns, lion heads, paper doctors, paper horses, breeds... are recreated through the hands of young authors.
From learning materials and crafting techniques to researching folk modeling languages, the products are restored on the spirit of respecting traditional values but at the same time have adjustments and creativity to be closer to the needs and tastes of the current public.
The exhibition is therefore not only a place to introduce products but also opens up a story about the possibility of continuing traditional handicrafts in the new context.
Present at the exhibition, Ms. Le Bao Tram (36 years old, Hanoi) and her daughter spent time admiring star lanterns and carp lanterns. Ms. Tram said that she is very happy to have the opportunity to experience and retell old stories with her daughter. Her daughter also expressed interest in traditional Mid-Autumn toys.
Doan Khanh Linh (20 years old, Da Nang) visited the exhibition with a group of close friends. Linh was excited to learn more about the tradition of academics and the image of paper PhD associated with the Northern Mid-Autumn Festival feast.
According to Linh, these are unique cultural features that need to be preserved and introduced more widely to the younger generation.
The exhibition also attracted the attention of a large number of foreign tourists. Johannes Winkler (23 years old, German tourist), was particularly impressed by the sophistication of the giant folk lantern cluster.
“Crab, shrimp, and fish lights are hung right in the middle of the ceiling, when the wind blows gently in, they move according to the joints, looking as lively as real” - Mr. Johannes Winkler shared.
