Vietnam's largest French food festival - Balade en France, or Walk in France - will hold a special edition from April 14 to 16, according to the French Embassy in Vietnam.

The poster of the “Balade en France” Festival 2023

This year's festival will be co-hosted by the Embassy and the Hanoi People's Committee, following the success of its two previous editions in 2018 and 2020. It will occur at the Ly Thai To Square and the surrounding area, 

Speaking at the press conference on March 28, Nicolas Warnery, French Ambassador to Vietnam, said that this large-scale public event is part of celebrating the 50th anniversary of French-Vietnamese diplomatic relations, showcasing French gastronomy.

"To celebrate the important milestone of diplomatic relations between Vietnam and France, which falls on April 12, a series of exceptional cultural events have been held since the beginning of 2023, but "Balade en France" will be the most prominent event," he said.

"This event will highlight the excellence, responsibility, enjoyment, authenticity, and innovation of French gastronomic products under the aegis of "Taste France," he added.

He also stressed that the Vietnamese and French taste the same when enjoying eating and drinking. In Hanoi and throughout Vietnam, French cuisine and products are abundantly present. This expresses the "culture of sharing", also the slogan for the 50th anniversary of relations between the two countries.

The press conference of the “Balade en France” Festival 2023 takes place on March 28 in Hanoi. Photo: Jenna Duong

Many restaurants, importers, and brands representing French gastronomy will join the festival: Paysan Breton, Métropole, Red Apron, Marou, Saint Honoré, La Table Hanoia, French fruit and ham suppliers, France 24.
Visitors to the festival can share moments of pleasure while tasting quality products from France, such as milk, chocolate, bread, cheese, cold cuts, fruit, and wine.

According to the organizers, there will be about 50 stands of 43 units at the event. In particular, about 100kg of fresh apples will be brought in daily during the festival to introduce this famous French fruit to Vietnamese consumers.

In addition, participants will be able to admire chef Mazc Ales's talent from Ecole Frerrandi at a cooking show on April 14 from 3 pm to 4 pm.

In addition to the culinary area, "Balade en France" will also feature a variety of stands displaying French tourism, hotels, and products.

In parallel with this culinary event, a rich arts and culture program will be held, with performances on the main stage by professional and amateur singers, French film screenings, art classes, and hip-hop dance, to give festival-goers a true feeling of "strolling in France."

Along with "Balade en France," an art performance and installation program called "Colors of Vietnam" will also be organized by the city's People's Committee on Dinh Tien Hoang Street and in the pedestrian area around Hoan Kiem Lake.

The opening ceremony of "Balade en France" in Hanoi will be held on April 14 at 7 pm at the Ly Thai To Monument with the participation of famous Vietnamese singers such as My Linh, Dong Lan, and Khanh Linh, among others.

With the support of the French Ministry of Agriculture and Food Sovereignty, the festival will be open to the public on Saturday, April 15, from 30:00 to 22:00 and on Sunday, April 16, from 10:00 to 22:00.

The space of “Balade en France” Festival 2020. Photo: vufo.org.vn