“Essence of Hanoi Autumn” space features the capital's finest products
A zone infused with the essence of autumn has recreated a miniature version of Hanoi’s Old Quarter and distinctive items.
THE HANOI TIMES — Visitors can step into a miniature Hanoi with golden leaf-lined streets and stalls filled with beautiful traditional handicrafts, a perfect blend of culture, color and creativity in the vibrant “Essence of Hanoi Autumn” space, a major attraction for visitors at the Autumn Fair 2025, which is underway at the Vietnam Exposition Center in the capital city's Dong Anh Commune.
The meticulously-designed zone with a palette drawn from chrysanthemum gold and canary-tree yellows captures Hanoi’s seasonal charm.
A stall with traditional toys of to he (colored rice-dough figurines) at the “Essence of Hanoi Autumn” zone attracts kids, local and foreign visitors. Photos: Anh Kiet/The Hanoi Times
Signature products from Hanoi’s suburban areas, including handicrafts, One Commune One Product (OCOP) items and key industrial and tourism products, are drawing crowds.
"We are proud to offer products that embody Hanoi’s identity and autumnal soul, especially organic pomelo and traditional cakes. It's so delightful to deliver safe and premium agricultural products to residents and international tourists," Nguyen Nhu Hao, Director of the Que Duong Safe Pomelo Cooperative in Duong Hoa Commune, Hanoi, told The Hanoi Times.
OCOP products made from organic pomelo of the Que Duong Safe Pomelo Cooperative are showcased at the Autumn Fair 2025.
According to the municipal Department of Industry and Trade, more than 30 artisans and scores of Hanoi companies fill the space with hundreds of items in handicrafts, food and regional specialties.
According to Pham Tuan Duy, an artisan of Nhi Khe woodcraft village, he joined the fair to raise brand visibility and expand connections with artisan networks at home and abroad.
“Our lineup, bracelets, prayer beads, combs and chess boards have been shipped to Taiwan (China) and the US," said Duy.
Pham Tuan Duy (first right), an artisan cum workshop owner in the Nhi Khe Woodcraft Village of Thuong Tin Commune, is busy introducing his products to numerous customers.
The blend of traditional artistry and new-age invention sketches a layered Hanoi rooted in tradition yet pushing innovation and growth.
Another draw for visitors, especially foreigners, is the live demo space where makers reveal techniques and the stories behind each creation. Attendees can watch the precise molding and glazing of Bat Trang pottery or the detailed carving of wood sculptures, a vivid reflection of Hanoi’s living heritage.
A booth details carving of wood sculptures.
Billed as a “mega fair”, the first Autumn Fair 2025 ranks among the year’s biggest trade and cultural gatherings, uniting 34 cities and provinces with over 2,500 local and foreign firms.
Each zone features its own mini autumn vibe, mixing product displays with live music and cultural experiences, reflecting aspects of Vietnamese cultural identity.
Seasonal snacks of green rice flakes and milk are displayed at the “Essence of Hanoi Autumn” zone.
