Hanoi design festival plans 150 activities across five city locations
Nearly 1,000 artisans, artists and creators from 21 countries are expected at the November 13–28 event, themed Creative Economy.
Hanoi will host exhibitions, workshops and creative installations at heritage landmarks and public spaces during its Festival of Creative Design 2026, scheduled for November 13–28. Organisers have announced about 150 activities spread across five main locations.
The programme will span Hoan Kiem Lake and the Old Quarter, as well as Dong Xuan–Bac Qua Market, Hang Dau Water Tower and Thong Nhat Park. Visitors will be able to explore handcrafted goods, take part in art activities and see products combining traditional materials and patterns with new designs.
Le Thi Anh Mai, deputy director of Hanoi's Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism, said the initiative aims to turn the city's heritage, knowledge and creative skills into assets for long-term development. Its goals include supporting jobs and livelihoods, encouraging collaboration and strengthening cultural industries.
The Viet Nam Association of Architects is a key co-organiser. Partners and community groups began preparations in January, ahead of the 16-day main programme. Pham Thi Thanh Huong, who heads the Culture Department at UNESCO's Hanoi office, said the city had strengthened its design identity since entering the UNESCO Creative Cities Network in 2019.
