Hang Ma Street comes alive with spooky costumes for Halloween
In the days leading up to Halloween, the shops on Hang Ma Street in Hanoi, Vietnam are covered in bright colors, creating a mysterious, attractive and equally creepy atmosphere.
THE HANOI TIMES — Halloween, celebrated every October 31, reminds children to confront their fears of ghosts and darkness while embracing the joy and playfulness of life.
Hang Ma Street in Hanoi comes alive with color and light in the run-up to Halloween
Over the past two decades, this Western festival has steadily taken root in Vietnam, becoming a favorite among young people who celebrate it with enthusiasm as a joyful occasion to gather with friends.
As Halloween approaches, vendors along Hang Ma Street in Hanoi’s Old Quarter stock up for the festivities. Shops overflow with pumpkins, witch figurines, ghost masks, lanterns and spider webs, filling the street with color, charm and playful mystery.
According to a shop owner on Hang Ma Street, this year, Halloween goods were imported earlier, more diverse and more eye-catching than last season.
“The highlight of this year's Halloween festival is custom-designed goods. The best-selling products this year are mini witch hats specially designed for children, glowing plastic pumpkins and 'ghost' costumes,” she shared.
Skulls glow softly under the warm lights, while witch masks sway gently above the bustling aisles. Photos: Duy Khanh/The Hanoi Times
“Devil” pumpkins take on curious, whimsical shapes and black cloaks, pointed hats and flickering lanterns add to the street’s enchanting, slightly eerie charm.
The colors, lights and intricate details transform Hang Ma Street into a magical corridor of celebration.
Small treasures, such as masks, lanterns and decorative trinkets, start at around VND50,000 (US$2), while more elaborate items can cost some million Vietnamese dongs, or a few hundred dollars.
Children beam with excitement as they explore the aisles, choosing costumes under the careful watch of their parents.
Cute ghost masks bring a touch of fun to the festive street.
The whole street hums with a gentle energy: playful, festive and full of curiosity.
In Vietnam, Halloween has quietly found a place in the city’s heart, painting the last days of autumn with color, light and playful energy, and filling Hanoi’s streets with a gentle, festive spirit.
