The Hanoi Creative Design Festival 2026 has opened in the Vietnamese capital, bringing together artists, designers and cultural organisations for a programme focused on creativity and the development of the city’s creative economy. The festival began on the evening of November 13 and will continue for 16 days, with activities taking place across different cultural and heritage areas of Hanoi. This year’s theme, “Creative Economy,” reflects the organisers’ aim to connect traditional cultural resources with modern design, technology and new forms of artistic expression.
Vice Chairwoman of the Hanoi People’s Committee Vu Thu Ha said the festival is part of a wider effort to build a creative ecosystem rather than simply organise a series of cultural events. The programme is designed to bring together different sectors, allowing artists, artisans, designers, businesses and communities to work together. Organisers want to make better use of the capital’s cultural heritage and creative talent while creating opportunities for new products, services and cultural experiences.
The festival also seeks to strengthen the relationship between traditional craftsmanship and contemporary markets. Hanoi and its surrounding areas are home to many craft villages with long histories of producing textiles, ceramics, bamboo goods, paper products and other handmade items. By connecting artisans with designers and modern creative businesses, the event aims to help traditional skills reach new audiences. Exhibitions, artistic performances and collaborative activities are expected to give visitors opportunities to explore different forms of Vietnamese creativity.
Beyond its cultural programme, the festival has a wider economic purpose. Organisers believe creative industries can contribute to employment, tourism, business development and the international image of Hanoi. The city is seeking to turn its cultural assets into long-term resources that generate livelihoods and encourage investment. By supporting cooperation across art, design, technology and heritage, the festival aims to create a stronger environment for creative businesses and independent artists. Its 16-day programme is expected to attract both local residents and international visitors, while encouraging further discussion about how culture can become an important part of Hanoi’s future development.
