Hanoi unveils innovative tourism event to celebrate cultural heritage

At the press conference for HFCD 2024 in Hanoi on October 30, the organising committee introduced an innovative festival programme to connect visitors with Hanoi's iconic heritage sites, reflecting the city's rich cultural tapestry. The conference featured representatives from the authorities, local government, partner organisations, and over 110 media outlets.

Speaking at the conference, Tran Thi Van Anh, deputy director of Hanoi Department of Culture and Sports, highlighted the significance of the event. "This year's event is poised to be one of the city's marquee events of the year. It aims to showcase a plethora of innovative ideas, connect the capital’s rich heritage, nurture young designers, and solidify Hanoi's status as a UNESCO-recognised creative hub," said Anh, adding, "Our goal is to inspire creativity across all demographics in Hanoi, fuelling a collective ambition to contribute to the advancement of the capital and nation as we enter a new era of revitalisation."

Phan Dang Son, president of the Vietnam Architects Association, noting that the festival is being prepared with a focus on community and innovation. "I believe that with this spirit, the event will achieve even greater success. This event is also an opportunity for designers to connect, create, and contribute to the community right here in our beloved capital. As partners of the city, we will dedicate ourselves to fully embracing the spirit of developing the creative industry and revitalising our heritage, allowing it to progress alongside the city's development," said Son.

As the host of this year’s HFCD, Pham Tuan Long, Chairman of Hoan Kiem People's Committee, expressed his gratitude to the organisers for once again choosing Hoan Kiem as the location for the festival.

"We have observed that creative events and designs related to digital transformation, the digital economy, and the creative economy are receiving increasing attention from the community," Long said.

"This year, with a focus on the heritage urban areas, the old quarter, and the ancient neighbourhoods, featuring many heritage buildings and architectural and artistic value, the event is sure to succeed. Additionally, I hope that beyond the festival, we will continue to see even more creative products emerge," he added.

HFCD 2024 is being organised under the auspices of Hanoi People's Committee and the Vietnam Architects Association, with execution led by Hanoi Department of Culture and Sports, and support from the UNESCO Office in Hanoi, Vietnam Prosperity Joint Stock Commercial Bank (VPBank), and the Hanoi Youth Union.

Tran Thi Van Anh, deputy director, Hanoi Department of Culture and Sports. Photo: HFCD 2024

This year marks the debut of the ‘Creative Intersection’ concept, which will be showcased along seven of Hanoi’s iconic heritage sites. The event promises a vibrant line-up of over 100 creative activities across 12 cultural industries, including architecture, design, fine arts, performing arts, cinema, and advertising, celebrating Hanoi’s rich cultural tapestry.

Attendees can expect valuable insights from cultural, historical, artistic, and architectural researchers, as well as international experts who will share best practices in the creative fields, with a particular emphasis on engaging young audiences and nurturing a new intellectual community.

Participating travel agencies will create unique cultural and creative tourism experiences that align with festival activities, offering visitors a closer look at Hanoi’s heritage through tours that spotlight the city’s cultural, historical, and architectural marvels. Traditional performances and interactive events will further enhance these experiences.

Additionally, the festival will showcase innovations in handicrafts, culture, and art, offering experiential opportunities designed to inspire creativity and develop high-quality cultural products rooted in the distinctive characteristics of each locality.

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