Cau Giay Park in Hanoi was filled with energy and color last weekend as the Vietnam–US Friendship Festival brought together thousands of residents for a vibrant celebration of 30 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
Thousands of people visited Cau Giay Park on the weekend to take part in the meaningful and engaging friendship event. Photo: US Embassy in Hanoi
The event, jointly organized on November 23 by the US Embassy in Hanoi and the Vietnam Union of Friendship Organizations (VUFO), served as a highlight in a series of activities marking three decades of partnership and growing people-to-people ties.
Throughout the day, visitors enjoyed a diverse range of cultural, educational, and sports activities. The festival grounds featured themed cultural booths, a traditional folk games zone, and a bustling central stage where performances and interactive sessions took place. Families and young people were especially drawn to areas dedicated to educational exploration, which offered information on study opportunities, English learning activities, and STEM-based games.
The cultural booths showcased the unique traditions and contemporary identities of both Vietnam and the United States. Attendees participated in handicraft workshops, English spelling contests, augmented-reality games, and other hands-on experiences designed to encourage cultural understanding. Participants earned points through these activities, which they could later exchange for souvenirs, adding a playful and engaging element to the festival.
A series of musical performances celebrating the cultural identities of both nations added to the festival’s lively atmosphere. Photo: Cam Anh/ The Hanoi Times
Sports enthusiasts also found plenty to enjoy. The sports zone hosted a mix of popular Vietnamese and American activities, including basketball and American football try-outs, hula-hooping, beanbag tossing, and pull-up challenges. Dance lessons, ranging from hip-hop to traditional Vietnamese dances, attracted both children and adults, highlighting the diverse cultural expressions of the two nations. Culinary booths offered traditional Vietnamese dishes alongside American favorites, drawing long lines of visitors eager to sample the flavors of both cultures.
According to US Ambassador to Vietnam Marc Knapper, the festival was designed to highlight the warmth and growing closeness between the peoples of Vietnam and the United States. He emphasized that cultural exchange continues to be a strong foundation of the bilateral relationship, especially as the two countries elevate cooperation across education, innovation, climate and trade.
Areas promoting educational opportunities are highlighted throughout the event. Photo: US Embassy in Hanoi
Dong Huy Cuong, Vice Chairman of VUFO, also underscored the significance of people-to-people diplomacy. “The emotional bond and mutual appreciation between the peoples of the two countries toward each other’s culture and nation are equally important,” he said, noting that such exchanges help nurture trust, understanding, and long-term friendship.
This year’s festival comes at a meaningful time, as Vietnam and the US continue to deepen ties following the upgrade of relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2023. Events like the Vietnam–US Friendship Festival highlight not only the strong diplomatic and economic partnership but also the growing enthusiasm of both countries’ citizens, especially younger generations to learn about one another and build lasting connections.
By Cam Anh
