Lively celebration of Vietnamese traditional attire in Hanoi's Old Quarter

A series of cultural activities have been organized, providing a fascinating glimpse into Vietnam's rich traditions as locals and visitors gathered to celebrate the arrival of spring.

In partnership with the Hoan Kiem Lake Management Board and local organizations, the Vietnamese Village Communal House Club's annual event featured an exciting highlight - a traditional costume parade. Over 400 volunteers dressed in colorful traditional Vietnamese attire and paraded through the heart of the Old Quarter, bringing a splash of culture and history to every corner.

This is the fifth iteration of this spectacular event, which began on November 19 at the Kim Ngan Communal House (No. 42-44 Hang Bac Street) and will continue throughout the holiday.

Nguyen Duc Binh, artist and head of the Vietnamese Village Communal House Club, says: "Tet is a time when the traditional essence of the nation shines through. With this program, Tet Viet - Tet Pho, we aim to recreate the traditional cultural spirit of Vietnam and share its unique identity."

As a cherished annual tradition in Hoan Kiem District, this lively event is more than just a celebration - it's an invitation for people of all ages to promote the beauty of Vietnamese heritage.

The cultural event attracts a large turnout, especially from young locals. Huy Pham/The Hanoi Times

The procession wound its way past some of Hanoi's most iconic landmarks, including the historic Hoan Kiem Lake, enchanting both locals and international visitors.

The event recreates the traditional cultural spirit of Vietnam and shares its unique identity.

This lively event attracts many people of all ages to promote Vietnamese heritage's beauty.

Organizers hope that the colorful parade will inspire a collective effort to preserve and promote the country's cultural values.

The trip concludes with a special New Year's ceremony at the Kim Ngan Communal House.

A traditional ritual includes the offering of incense, a tutelary god report, and the ceremonial raising of the neu pole - a strong bamboo tree decorated only with leaves at the top.

As the tree swings in the breeze, its jingling signifies the exorcism of evil spirits and the welcoming of a prosperous and peaceful year ahead.

The event also features folk songs celebrating the arrival of spring, a vibrant display of Vietnam's rich customs.

The event aims to involve the younger generations to foster their understanding of cultural heritage and encourage them to contribute to the preservation.