On weekends, at the relic site of the Imperial Citadel Center of Thang Long, the festive atmosphere is bustling and filled with cultural colors from all over the world. The World Cultural Festival has become a vibrant destination, attracting a large number of tourists, especially international friends, to visit and experience.
Many international visitors believe that the festival is not only a place to show cultural colors but also has a deep meaning of connection.
Lori Fairbairn ( Canada), who has lived in Vietnam for nearly 15 years, said she was surprised that right in the heart of Hanoi, there was such a unique cultural event.
Eventures like this are very meaningful. They connect people closer to each other, helping us understand and appreciate each other more through culture. For example, when I watched Pakistan's performance, I felt a deep sense of solidarity and empathy, especially at a time when their country was facing many difficulties," she shared.
As for Stephane - a French person who has lived in Vietnam for 4 years, he believes that the festival is an opportunity for people from many countries to share, understand and spread the spirit of peace in the context of a complex world.
She visited booths in Pakistan and Saudi Arabia and was very happy that the festival was divided into many regions across the continent. In particular, traditional cultural performances of Vietnam such as dance, music, musical instruments, bands and costumes are also very special.
"What I like about the festival is that there are many people in charge of the booths. I can chat, ask them where they come from, about their stalls or projects and learn many interesting things.
This is truly a great way to connect the community and a place where people can explore culture, cuisine, painting... Who knows, after this experience, they will want to visit and travel in that country, she added.
Not only enjoying the performances, visitors are also excited about the experiential activities at the festival.
Lars Warratz (Germany) returned to Vietnam after 9 years and attended the festival with his mother at the invitation of his girlfriend. He felt extremely excited to share memorable experiences with his mother and girlfriend this time.
I really like the performances on stage, from the childrens dances to the traditional Cheo singing performances, all are very lively and rich in identity, he shared.
The same goes for Edvin Pettersson from Sweden. After an afternoon of experience, he realized that this festival is a great opportunity to learn more deeply about the culture, identity of Vietnam as well as the diverse traditions of many countries.
I think everyone here is very open, ready to learn and explore different cultural values. I am especially impressed with the way Vietnamese people express hospitality and respect for cultures around the world, he expressed.
Coming to the 2025 World Cultural Festival, visitors can experience the "Cultural Road" with nearly 50 international booths such as China, Korea, Japan, France, Iran, Laos, Philippines... operating from 9:00 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., introducing history, art, costumes and typical customs. Visitors can try wearing traditional costumes, exchange culture, and enjoy international films at the Imperial Citadel Hall.
In addition, during the days of the event, the round stage will be vibrant with performances of Kong Chieng, Quan Ho, Cheo, Chau Van, folk dance and international performances from Japan, Russia, Pakistan, Iran, Cuba, Indonesia, Philippines, Venezuela... with the participation of Vietnamese and international artists.
