Hanoi held its first-ever Peach Blossom Contest in Tay Ho District on January 18, ahead of the Lunar New Year, known locally as the traditional Vietnamese holiday of Tet.

The contest attracted 54 entries from 29 authors from Nhat Tan and Phu Thuong wards. 

The entries are bonsai and ancient peach trees from five to over 10 years old. All the peach trees have been carefully tended by farmers with many years of experience.

Members of the jury assess products at the competition. Photo: Hanoimoi

Deputy Director of Hanoi's Department of Agriculture and Rural Development Ta Van Tuong said this is the first time Hanoi has organized a traditional peach blossom contest.

"It is in response to the Peach Blossom and Kumquat Tree Festival, which will be held at the Trinh Cong Son pedestrian zone in Tay Ho District from January 26 to February 1," Tuong added.

He stressed that with the theme "Connecting Potential - Adding Value - Sustainable Development", the contest celebrates the beauty of Nhat Tan Peach Village and promotes Tay Ho District's specialties under the One Commune, One Product (OCOP) program.

Deputy Chairman of the Tay Ho People's Committee Nguyen Thanh Tinh said the district currently has 146 hectares of land under peach trees, which has been allocated to more than 1,000 households.

"In the context of globalization and international integration, with its geographical location and rich history, Tay Ho District is promoting its internal strengths, exploiting potentials and advantages to build the district into a cultural tourism hub in the capital," Tinh added.

He stressed that the Peach Blossom and Kumquat Tree Festival in the district will provide an opportunity for local businesses to introduce OCOP products and other quality items to consumers, contributing to the implementation of the "Vietnamese People Buy Vietnamese Products" campaign.