HÀ NỘI — An exhibition beginning today in Hà Nội will feature the diversity of national tangible and intangible heritage, including those recognised internationally by UNESCO.

With the theme ‘Vietnamese Cultural Heritage Space’, the three-day event will feature a photo exhibition, traditional art performances, folk games and a fair of agricultural products and souvenirs from various localities.

The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism will hold the event at the Vietnamese Culture and Arts Exhibition Centre, 2 Hoa Lư Street.

The exhibition is expected to raise patriotism, pride and responsibility among Vietnamese people, especially younger generations, in preserving national heritage, according to Nguyễn Đăng Chương, head of the organising board.

“It’s an important event to promote Vietnamese culture and tourism, honour values of national heritage and deepen the imprints of national identity,” he said

Representatives from localities are expected to take advantage of this event to exchange experiences in the management, preservation and promotion of cultural heritage values.

One highlight of the event is an exhibition themed ‘A Journey to Cultural Heritage of Việt Nam’, which reflects tangible and intangible heritage of provinces and cities nationwide.

Each locality has a space to introduce its heritage and potential in culture, economy and tourism. Khánh Hòa Province, for instance, will highlight the rituals and customs of local fishermen, the life of soldiers and residents in Trường Sa (Spratly) Archipelago and the swallow’s nest business.

The celebration of Việt Nam Heritage Day will take place today with an art performance featuring UNESCO-recognised heritage such as ca trù (ceremonial singing), quan họ (love duets), Huế royal music, hát xoan (spring singing in Phú Thọ Province) and đờn ca tài tử (southern instrumental music).

Another highlight of the event is an exhibition of áo dài (traditional long robe) presented by Áo Dài Museum from HCM City. The exhibition features different styles of long dresses throughout history.

During the exhibition, there are activities to get visitors involved such as an exchange programme for university students with the theme ‘Youth with national cultural heritage’, a painting contest ‘Children with Vietnamese Cultural Heritage’, and a workshop on ‘Heritage and cultural heritage issues of Hà Nội and neighbouring provinces’, showcasing local agricultural products.

It will also have sections where artisans and their work are displayed. Participants will have a chance to buy handicraft and traditional products such as silk from Vạn Phúc Village, textile weaving from Phùng Xá Village and rattan weaving from Phú Vinh Village and embroidery from Quất Động Village. — VNS