“Hanoi Autumn Essence” showcases Vietnamese craftsmanship
VOV.VN - The “Hanoi Autumn Essence” space, organised by the Hanoi Department of Industry and Trade, has emerged as the central highlight of the first Autumn Fair 2025, which opened at the Vietnam Exposition Centre (VEC) and runs through November 4.
A space of heritage and memory
Spanning 17,000 sq m, the zone is designed as a vivid miniature of Hanoi, recreating old streets, moss-covered rooftops, the curved The Huc Bridge over Hoan Kiem Lake and familiar old electric poles, evoking generations of the capital’s memories.
An open layout allows visitors to stroll through handicraft booths, admiring refined products from Bat Trang ceramics, Van Phuc silk, Thuy Ung horn comb crafts, Phu Vinh rattan and bamboo, and Hang Bo leather goods. Each corner reflects Hanoi’s charm—classic yet elegant, modern yet deeply rooted in tradition.
From the entrance, yellow chrysanthemums, the aroma of fresh green rice and the sound of festival drums set a distinctly autumnal tone. Crowds continue to grow, creating a scene that is both lively and refined - quintessentially Hanoi.
Reviving traditional crafts
At the Bat Trang booth, artisan Phung Quang Dang works intently at the wheel, skillfully shaping clay into intricately patterned vases, drawing admiration from onlookers.
“The most valuable moment is when young people stop and ask about the craft. That’s when I know it is being carried forward,” he says.
Nearby, a traditional toy figurine (tò he) stall has become a favourite among children, who watch artisans shape characters before eagerly holding their own creations.
Nguyen Van Su, owner of Muoi Su horn craft workshop from Thuy Ung village, also draws large crowds. His finely polished horn products, such as combs, frames and decorative items, spark lively conversations. He hoped customers take home not just products but also the stories behind Vietnamese craftsmanship.
The space brings together 30 artisans demonstrating traditional crafts, alongside exhibitions of Hanoi’s key industrial and commercial products, including processing, mechanics, food, textiles, IT and OCOP goods.
Where culture meets modern industry
Beyond celebrating tradition, the space serves as a platform linking culture with commerce. Businesses, cooperatives and startups showcase innovative products combining technology and sustainability.
Light industrial and processed food products emphasise eco-friendly packaging and recycled materials. Brands such as Nguyen Ninh green rice cake, West Lake lotus tea, Hanoi coffee and Ba Vi honey not only promote their goods but also share stories of origin and local culture.
Strong response from businesses and visitors
Participating businesses view the event as both an effective and emotionally engaging branding opportunity.
Visitors have also responded enthusiastically, with attendance steadily rising. Le Duc Anh from Hai Ba Trung district says the space offers a unique experience that honours traditional crafts in a meaningful way rather than merely displaying them.
Meanwhile, Nguyen Thu Trang from Cau Giay ward notes that hands-on activities like making to he figurines and paper fans help children better understand Vietnamese culture and heritage.
A vibrant autumn fair
As night falls, warm lights illuminate red-tiled roofs, transforming the space into a sparkling miniature Hanoi. The steady flow of visitors, accompanied by traditional music and cheerful chatter, creates a lively atmosphere.
More than just a cultural attraction, the space breathes new life into Vietnamese craftsmanship, proving that traditional values can thrive in modern times when infused with creativity, dedication and national pride.
Autumn Fair 2025 is not only an economic and trade event but also a cultural festival, where visitors can reconnect with memories and place their trust in the enduring future of Vietnamese values.