A global village in the heart of a heritage site.

The wives of ambassadors from various countries walked the runway in traditional Vietnamese ao dai dresses.

Bridges without borders

The festival, held from October 10th to 12th, is a key cultural diplomacy event for Vietnam in 2025. The event brings together 48 participating countries with 45 cultural spaces; 34 international food stalls; 23 domestic and international art troupes; 12 book and publication exhibitors; and 22 countries participating in the international film screening program…

Throughout the past weekend, from morning till night, vibrant sounds echoed across the circular stage in the center of Thang Long Imperial Citadel. The sounds of the Tar and Kamancheh (Iranian instruments) blended with Japanese drums and lively dances from Russian and Mongolian girls, creating a rare cultural symphony. Many international artists and students expressed their joy at being immersed in this colorful cultural exchange. After performing the dance "Flying Eagle," Lkhagvasuren Khishigmaa (Maaya) from the Mongolian art troupe enthusiastically shared that this was truly an international cultural exchange space. Through the performance, we not only introduced the culture of our country but also had the opportunity to meet and learn about other cultures, which was truly interesting and meaningful. Young artist Phung Thi Thanh Huyen ( Hanoi Cheo Theatre) said that her troupe presented two performances: "Inviting Water and Betel" (ancient Quan Ho folk song) and "Loi Lo Going Down the Street" by composer Hanh Nhan. I hope there will be more programs like this to promote Vietnamese culture and showcase talents, helping international friends understand how our generation continues our national traditions.

The Russian Federation's art troupe performed at the festival.

One of the highlights of the festival was the Fashion Show – “Footsteps of Heritage,” held on the evening of October 11th at the central stage, featuring nearly 100 traditional costumes from participating countries. Inspired by the beauty of Vietnamese culture, Vietnamese designers beautifully told the story of Vietnam through their ao dai (traditional Vietnamese dress) collections. This was followed by a special performance by the wives of four embassies: Czech Republic, Japan, Ukraine, and the United States. Each presented a unique cultural aspect of their country, skillfully incorporated into the Vietnamese ao dai. Then, the entire heritage site of the Imperial Citadel came alive with the vibrant colors of traditional costumes from various nations. While Indonesian girls showcased elegance and national pride through precious songket fabric and exquisite embroidery, Iranian designs drew inspiration from Persian culture, embodying artistry, freedom, and pride. And the dazzling, multi-layered festival gowns were a vivid symbol of Cuban spirit. Representing the harmony of cultures and beliefs in Malaysian attire are the exquisite designs made from silk and batik.

The "International Food Zone," located along the ancient citadel, is a melting pot of international flavors. 34 stalls from five continents offer signature dishes, creating a " world menu" in the heart of Hanoi. At the Indian stall, the rich aroma of curry mingled with baked goods, alongside Japanese sushi, French crepes, German sausages, and Turkish sandwiches… drawing long lines of patient visitors. Visitors not only taste the food but also learn about and experience the culture through each ingredient, flavor, and cooking method.

Thang Long Imperial Citadel shines brightly through 3D mapping technology.

Vietnam is friendly.

Ms. Peta Donald, First Secretary of the Australian Embassy in Vietnam, was impressed by the depth of Vietnam's history and culture. Her experience at the opening night of the festival made that feeling even more special. “The performance that impressed me the most was the song 'Thi Mau' performed by singer Hoa Minzy. Along with that, the performances by singers dressed in the colors of the Vietnamese flag, against the backdrop of lights and cultural images projected onto the walls of Thang Long Imperial Citadel, were truly moving,” she said.

For Maaya (a business administration student at Hanoi University), three years living in Hanoi has helped her understand that Vietnamese culture is not only beautiful in its rituals, but also in the friendly, hospitable, and compassionate way the Vietnamese people treat each other. Besides being fascinated by exploring the culture, Maaya also expressed a desire to learn more about Vietnamese business and modern life, as well as to make more Vietnamese friends to better understand the country she is connected to. Milagros Pichardo, a Cuban journalist also living and working in Vietnam, said that her first visit to Vietnam was during the Mid-Autumn Festival, and she was very impressed by the decorations, the festive atmosphere, and the warmth of the Vietnamese people. Although Vietnamese and Cuban cultures have certain differences, both places share a common trait: warmth, closeness, and abundant positive energy.

Showing solidarity with flood victims, the festival organizers appealed for donations through the Vietnam Fatherland Front Committee and held a charity auction on the evening of October 11th. The auction raised 2.5 billion VND, all of which will be used to support people affected by the storms and floods.

Impressed by the scale and organization of the festival, Jonathan Wallace Baker, Head of UNESCO's Representative Office in Vietnam, remarked that the festival clearly demonstrated the spirit of international cooperation by bringing together representatives from many countries and ambassadors to showcase their national cultures. Vietnam is a country that deeply understands the significance of culture to its people. Looking to the future, Mr. Baker believes that organizing the annual World Culture Festival will bring many lasting values.

Source: https://nhandan.vn/ngoi-lang-toan-cau-giua-long-di-san-post915022.html