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Members of the Women's Union Organization of Tay Ho ward participating in the parade, titled “West Lake Lotus Colors - Hanoi” |
The parade brought together approximately 2,000 delegates, artists, performers, members of women's organizations, and Hanoi residents, all dressed in lotus-themed Ao dai. The event celebrated Vietnam's national flower while promoting its cultural heritage, honoring the elegance of the traditional Ao dai, and showcasing West Lake as a distinctive cultural and tourism destination for both domestic and international visitors.
The centerpiece of the event was a large-scale artistic performance where 2,000 participants formed the symbol "Lotus 2026". The organizers aim to establish two Vietnam records: the largest artistic formation spelling out "Lotus 2026" and the largest synchronized performance and parade of participants wearing lotus-patterned Ao dai.
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The event also featuring numerous beauty queens and public figures who have made a lasting impression on audiences |
Through this record-setting attempt, the organizers hope to highlight the enduring vitality of Vietnamese culture, honor the Ao dai as a symbol of national identity, and promote the lotus as a cultural bridge that fosters community connections while conveying messages of peace and sustainable development.
The parade traveled along several roads surrounding West Lake, transforming the area into a vibrant festival venue where natural scenery, cultural heritage, and contemporary art came together to create memorable experiences.
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Members of the Vietnam Ao Dai Culture Association joining the parade |
Beyond being a cultural celebration, the parade reflects Hanoi's ambition to leverage culture as a driving force for development, strengthening the capital's image as a City for Peace and a Creative City on the global stage.
The organizers also hope the event will further introduce Vietnamese cultural values to international audiences while showcasing the creativity, resilience, and identity of its people in an era of global integration. Every Ao dai, every lotus blossom, and every step taken symbolizes a Vietnam that is rich in tradition, welcoming to the world, and continuously moving forward.
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The spectacular "Lotus 2026" formation performance |
The Hanoi Lotus Festival, together with the “West Lake Lotus - Hanoi” parade, is expected to become one of the city's flagship cultural and tourism events. This initiative supports the development of the West Lake cultural brand while promoting Hanoi's cultural industries and creative economy in line with its long-term development strategy.
Translated Tran Hoai