The Hanoi College of Commerce and Tourism and the Embassies of Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan last week hosted the Novruz Bayram Festival.

This special international cultural event aimed to strengthen cooperation between nations and give students the opportunity to experience the rich traditions of Azerbaijan right in Vietnam.

For the second consecutive year, the Hanoi College of Commerce and Tourism has organized this festival, affirming its role in fostering international exchange and becoming a hub for cultural connection.

Novruz Bayram is one of Azerbaijan's most important celebrations, with a history of over 3,000 years. It has been recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage and by the United Nations as an International Holiday.

The festival marks the spring equinox, when day and night are equal in length. It symbolizes new beginnings, the victory of light over darkness, and the hope for peace, prosperity, and unity among people.

Similar to Vietnam's Lunar New Year, Novruz Bayram is a time for family reunions, festive meals, warm wishes, and meaningful traditional activities.

Hosting the festival again at the Hanoi College of Commerce and Tourism not only allows students and faculty to experience international culture but also highlights the school's growing reputation in tourism and culinary education, said Principal Trinh Thi Thu Ha.

She expressed her desire to expand cooperation with embassies and international organizations to bring more cultural exchange programs, helping students gain a broader perspective and learn from different civilizations.

According to her, organizing Novruz Bayram at the college reflects strong international cooperation and marks a significant milestone in the school's 60-year journey of development.

Through this event, the Hanoi College of Commerce and Tourism hopes to create learning and networking opportunities for students, while contributing to the sustainable growth of Vietnam's tourism, hospitality, and culinary industries, Ha said.

At the opening ceremony, delegates participated in the traditional egg-cracking game, symbolizing fertility, good fortune, and new beginnings.

Attendees of Novruz Bayram 2025, including guests and students, immersed themselves in the vibrant cultural space and learned more about Azerbaijani customs through hands-on activities.

One of the most important traditions was the fire-jumping ritual, which symbolizes letting go of misfortune and welcoming a new year filled with positive energy.

Another highlight was the egg-dyeing and egg-cracking contest, a popular tradition enjoyed by both children and adults, representing growth, luck, and prosperity.

A key feature of the festival was the Khontra tray, a symbolic centerpiece of Novruz Bayram. It was decorated with fresh green wheat sprouts and colorful sweets, representing abundance and prosperity in the new year.

Besides traditional activities, the Novruz Bayram Festival 2025 also featured an extraordinary international culinary showcase.

Renowned chef Don David, along with world-class culinary experts Alan Payen, Djordje Kostic, Suleyman Kursak, and Adrijana Alacki, presented signature dishes of the Novruz celebration to guests, faculty, and students.

One of the highlights was Novruz Plov, known as the "King of Dishes." This dish, an essential part of every Azerbaijani family's feast, consists of rice and lamb stew cooked with dried fruits and nuts, showcasing the unique flavors of Central Asian cuisine.