The festival aims to strengthen Hanoi’s cultural identity, promoting the city as a “Capital of Books and Knowledge.”
The Hanoi Book Festival 2024, themed “Hanoi: Capital of Culture, Heroes – City for Peace,” officially opened on the evening of September 27 at the pedestrian zone by Hoan Kiem Lake. Organized by the Hanoi People’s Committee in collaboration with the Ministry of Information and Communications, the festival brings together over 30 publishers and book distribution companies, creating a vibrant space for cultural exchange and promoting reading.
Diplomatic agencies, including the embassies of Laos, Cambodia, France, and Italy, have set up booths offering a variety of cultural exchange activities. In his opening speech, Ha Minh Hai, Vice Chairman of the Hanoi People’s Committee, said that the festival is not only a cultural event but also a bridge of knowledge, where books serve as carriers of stories, ideas, and wisdom. He noted that the festival highlights the role of books in modern society, particularly as Hanoi continues to develop and integrate internationally.
This year’s festival aims to strengthen Hanoi’s cultural identity, promoting the city as a “Capital of Books and Knowledge.” Hai stressed the importance of public participation in the success of the event, which will enhance the cultural values of Thang Long-Hanoi and celebrate the city’s rich history as a “City for Peace.”
The festival’s highlight is the exhibition of books themed “Hanoi: The Heroic Cultural Capital – City for Peace.” Publishers and book companies have organized engaging programs showcasing new works that celebrate Hanoi’s cultural and historical traditions. The French Institute in Vietnam is also participating, displaying French books translated into Vietnamese and offering various cultural activities, including games and connections to special moments.
On September 28, renowned comic book author Maxime Péroz will host an interactive session and sign copies of his book Learning to Draw Comic Characters, followed by an evening showcase of images featuring the Eiffel Tower. This event is one of many designed to enrich the reading culture and expand cultural understanding among locals and visitors alike.
TikTok Vietnam is also supporting the festival, helping publishers promote their books digitally through the BookTok community. The platform aims to connect authors, publishers, and readers, reaching a broader audience. The festival runs until September 29, featuring a diverse range of activities for all attendees.
By Hoang Nam
