The Ao Dai Carnival, titled “Capital Women Integration and Development,” took place this morning, October 5, at the Thang Long Imperial Citadel, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, and some streets in Hanoi’s downtown.

The Ao dai Carnival attracted participation from women of all backgrounds in the capital and delighted visitors to Hanoi.

The event is organized by the Hanoi Women's Union in collaboration with the Hanoi Department of Tourism.

In her opening speech, Le Kim Anh, Chairwoman of the Hanoi Women’s Union, highlighted Hanoi's rich cultural heritage, shaped by a thousand years of history and 36 ancient streets. She praised Hanoi women for their unique elegance, gracefully donning their ao dai while upholding traditional family values and communicating with warmth and propriety.

“In an era of increasing international integration and cultural exchange, the ao dai plays a vital role in preserving and promoting Vietnamese cultural values, serving as a source of pride for both the Vietnamese people and women,” she emphasized.

During the program, the Organizing Committee celebrated the winners of the “Check in Hanoi” Challenge, showcasing the ao dai. The creators of the 26 best photographs were awarded, including three Second Prizes, three Third Prizes, ten Encouragement Prizes, and ten Special Prizes.

An impressive art performance opened the cultural event.

The Dan vu, or folk dance, was performed by servants and residents from districts around Hanoi.

The organizers presented the “Check in Hanoi” Challenge, encouraging women to wear the ao dai while taking photos at famous tourist destinations throughout the capital.

The Ao Dai Carnival attracted nearly 1,000 participants, starting from the Thang Long Imperial Citadel and proceeding through several streets of Hanoi toward the historic Ba Dinh Square.

Women from Hoang Mai District in Hanoi.

Women from Dong Da District, Hanoi.

The event conveys the message: “Hanoi is a peaceful and hospitable city, steadily developing and integrating with the world.”