The opening ceremony of the "2025 Lam Dong Cultural Days in Hanoi" took place on May 17 at Ba Kieu Temple flower garden near Hoan Kiem Lake under the theme "A glimpse of Lam Dong in Hanoi."

Speaking at the opening, Tran Hong Thai, Vice Secretary of the Lam Dong Provincial Party Committee and Chairman of the Lam Dong Provincial People's Committee, expressed his pride in bringing the cultural essence of the Central Highlands province to the capital.

"We are honored to host this program in celebration of the 135th birthday of President Ho Chi Minh (May 19, 1890 – May 19, 2025)," he said.

"This event serves as a meaningful opportunity to highlight the cultural values and creativity of Lam Dong people through tangible and intangible heritage, traditional festivals, and distinctive craft villages. It also showcases the harmony between the province's historical roots and its modern-day innovations," Thai added.

He expressed hope that the activities within the program, featuring the cultural identity of Lam Dong's ethnic communities, would be warmly welcomed by locals, visitors, and international guests, further promoting the image of Da Lat, Lam Dong and the people to a broader audience, especially the citizens of Hanoi.

Thai also praised Hanoi as the "heart of the nation," a place where the finest cultural values from all regions converge and flourish.

He emphasized that the Lam Dong Cultural Days are not only an occasion for cultural sharing, but also a symbol of unity and sustainable cooperation between provinces.

Deputy Chairwoman of the Hanoi People's Committee Vu Thu Ha echoed these sentiments, saying the event offers Hanoians and tourists alike a chance to experience the unique culture of the Lam Dong highlands.

"It is also a reminder of the close bonds between Hanoi and Lam Dong's districts of Lam Ha and Da Teh, where many Hanoians once relocated to build new lives during the national economic development campaigns," she said.

"They have not only contributed to local growth but also preserved the cultural spirit of Hanoi in their second homeland."

Ha added that the event strengthens the relationship between the two localities, enhances cooperation, and promotes tourism, trade, and cultural exchange.

"It is also a chance to deepen mutual understanding and to contribute to national development," she said.

Through the program, ethnic communities and visitors from Lam Dong would also have a chance to learn more about Hanoi, formerly Thang Long, a city rich in history and traditions, yet vibrant, friendly, and ever-evolving, she added.

A shared tapestry of culture

The "2025 Lam Dong Cultural Days in Hanoi" aims to honor traditional values and celebrate the natural beauty and people of Lam Dong.

The event is also a platform to foster cultural, tourism, and commercial exchanges between Lam Dong and the capital, opening new opportunities for businesses, organizations, and individuals both domestically and internationally.

The highlight of the opening night was a vibrant art performance titled A Glimpse of Lam Dong in Hanoi, which took the audience on a journey through memory and modern life.

The show was divided into two chapters titled "Radiant highlands" and "Together we weave a tapestry of flowers".

The first chapter "Radiant highlands" painted a rich portrait of Lam Dong, home to 47 ethnic groups whose long-standing traditions are carefully preserved and passed down through generations.

Through music and dance, the audience was immersed in the sounds of the Central Highlands with gong rhythms, love songs, and stories of resilience and cultural pride.

The main performances included "Ho Chi Minh – the most beautiful name," "Silken threads by the horizon," "Langbiang S'ning," "To the land of peach blossoms – Da Lat's rosy cheeks," and "Fragrance of the highlands."

The second chapter, "Together we weave a tapestry of flowers", was a musical tribute to the enduring bond between Lam Dong and Hanoi.

Songs such as "Remembering Hanoi's autumn – pink rain," "Passionate Hanoi – a glimpse of Da Lat," "Visiting Uncle Ho's mausoleum," and "New day in Lam Dong – colorful Vietnam" reflected both nostalgia and optimism.

The program featured performances by well-known artists including Anh Tho, Phuc Tiep, Tuyet Mai, Kra Jan Druynh, Kra Jan Ut, Thu Ba, Quang Anh, and Dinh Manh Ninh. Their music guided the audience through a full range of emotions, from quiet reflection to bright visions of the future.

From ancient Hanoi to sunlit Lam Dong, the evening offered a journey through past, present, and the promise of tomorrow.

More than just a cultural showcase, it was a celebration of shared heritage, unity, and the love of the Vietnamese people for their land and one another.