Hanoi Ao Dai Tourism Parade 2025 showcases the capital’s beauty

THE HANOI TIMES — The poetic space around Hoan Kiem Lake on the afternoon of November 15 transformed into a vibrant cultural stage with the Hanoi Ao Dai Tourism Parade 2025, a highlight of the Hanoi Ao Dai Tourism Festival.

The event drew nearly 1,400 participants, spreading festive cheer and reaffirming Hanoi’s dedication to preserving the Ao Dai as a treasured national intangible cultural heritage.

From 2 PM to 5 PM, colorful formations of traditional attire moved gracefully around Hoan Kiem Lake and Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc Square. The vibrant procession harmonized with Hanoi’s gentle autumn atmosphere, inviting locals and visitors to experience the capital’s cultural charm.

Complementing the parade, the Hanoi Department of Tourism launched the “Touching Autumn in Hanoi” double-decker bus tour, allowing passengers in flowing Ao Dai to enjoy a fresh perspective of the city’s iconic landscapes.

Nguyen Tran Quang, Deputy Director of the Hanoi Department of Tourism, said the parade featured over 1,000 participants, including artisans from Trach Xa craft village, known for generations of Ao Dai makers. They were joined by the “Bach Hoa Bo Hanh” Vietnamese Costume Festival Project Group, Hoan Kiem Ward representatives, members of the Hanoi Vietnamese Ao Dai Heritage Club, and numerous residents and tourists celebrating Vietnamese attire.

He noted that each parade formation showcased cultural evolution, from five- and four-panel Ao Dai to Le and Nguyen dynasty court attire, culminating in modern designs reflecting today’s creativity and integration.

“These displays show the continuity of Vietnamese culture and its ability to remain resilient, innovative and unique. The parade also honors generations who have preserved and revitalized traditional Vietnamese clothing,” he added.

To enrich the cultural narrative, the parade was organized into thematic blocks showcasing ancient Vietnamese costumes across historical eras, attire representing 54 ethnic groups on the 80th anniversary of the motto “Independence - Freedom - Happiness,” and iconic garments of the Ly, Tran, Le and Nguyen dynasties. Each segment offered visitors a journey through time, highlighting the richness and diversity of Vietnam’s sartorial heritage.

Among the participants was Nguyen Thao Linh, dressed in the elegant Nhat Binh attire, a royal costume traditionally worn by noblewomen of the Nguyen Dynasty.

“Wearing the Nhat Binh in the heart of Hanoi feels like stepping into history. I wanted to bring these ancient garments closer to today’s audiences, especially young people. When tourists stopped to take photos and asked about the costume’s story, I felt proud to help preserve and promote our cultural heẻitage,” said Linh.

She added that the parade provided a rare chance for participants and spectators to connect with Vietnam’s past in a lively and meaningful way.

”It’s not just about wearing a beautiful costume, it’s about carrying the spirit of our ancestors and sharing it with the world.”

Running alongside the parade, the “Touching Autumn in Hanoi” bus tour offered a modern travel experience within the cultural celebration. From 3:30 PM to 5 PM, four double-decker buses transported Ao Dai-clad visitors to landmarks including Hanoi Opera House, Thang Long Imperial Citadel, the Temple of Literature, West Lake, Quan Thanh Temple and Tran Quoc Pagoda, allowing guests to experience Hanoi’s autumn beauty in motion.

The annual Hanoi Ao Dai Tourism Festival is not only a celebration of heritage but also a continuation of Hanoi’s thousand-year-old cultural story. By positioning the Ao Dai as a cultural symbol and “Tourism Ambassador” of the capital, the city aims to promote its image as a safe, friendly, high-quality and attractive destination for visitors worldwide.