Vietnam Showcasing Culture and Tourism Overseas

Vietnam is taking its culture and tourism to the world stage, captivating international audiences through immersive festivals and cultural exchanges. From the bustling heart of Moscow’s Red Square to the historic streets of Baku, these events not only celebrate Vietnam’s rich heritage but also strengthen diplomatic bonds with long-standing and emerging partners. By blending traditional performances, authentic cuisine, and interactive experiences, Vietnam is offering the world a vivid glimpse into its soul—inviting travelers to explore its beauty firsthand.

1. Vietnamese Culture at the Heart of Moscow

From July 25 to August 3, 2025, the Red Square in Moscow transformed into a vibrant showcase of Vietnamese culture during the festival “Vietnam – Colors of the Tropics”, commemorating the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Vietnam and Russia.

The opening drew distinguished attendees, including Mrs. Ngô Phương Ly, spouse of General Secretary Tô Lâm, Russian dignitaries such as First Deputy Chairman of the Federation Council Andrey Yatskin, and Moscow’s Deputy Mayor Natalia Sergunina. In her remarks, Mrs. Ngô highlighted that the festival symbolizes the enduring friendship and cultural ties binding the two nations over decades.

Over 10 days, this major event drew nearly 1 million visitors, according to Moscow’s tourism board. Attendees immersed themselves in a rich tapestry of Vietnam’s cultural offerings—from water puppetry, traditional folk music and dance, to handicrafts, áo dài fashion, and culinary specialties like cốm and pho.

Signature highlights included:

• A water puppet stage specially set up in Red Square, a first-of-its-kind presentation for such a historic venue.
• The “Hương vị Cốm: Essence of Hanoi, Soul of the Red River” area featuring green rice delicacies crafted by artisan Ánh Tuyết.
• Interactive displays: musical instruments like the T’rưng and K’Longput, “make-your-own tò he” workshops, folk painting (Đông Hồ), and lacquerware exhibitions.

Local reactions were glowing. A history teacher noted that the festival felt like “a living lesson” in Vietnamese culture, while a Russian designer expressed her admiration for the áo dài, sharing her plan to incorporate Vietnamese silk into her future collections.

2. Vietnam’s Cultural Resonance in Baku

Earlier, from July 26–29, 2025, Vietnam launched the third edition of “Vietnam Days” in Baku, Azerbaijan—marking a milestone in the countries’ newly established Strategic Partnership.

The festivities commenced with a visit to the Ho Chi Minh Memorial Room at Azerbaijan’s National Oil and Industry University—a tribute inaugurated during the state visit of top Vietnamese leaders in May 2025.

The official opening took place at the historic Maiden Tower Square (Icheri Sheher), where attendees enjoyed performances, Vietnamese cuisine, and cultural exhibitions in a setting that intertwines history with modern diplomacy. Azerbaijani officials praised the event’s role in enhancing cultural understanding between the two peoples.

3. Broader Significance & Tourism Impact

In Moscow, the festival not only celebrated Vietnamese heritage but stimulated curiosity and goodwill among Russians—drawing near a million visitors to engage directly with Vietnamese culture, arts, and food.

In Baku, “Vietnam Days” served as both a cultural immersion and a diplomatic gesture, reinforcing the countries’ Strategic Partnership through nuanced, people-to-people exchange.

Through these vibrant cultural showcases in Moscow and Baku, Vietnam reaffirms its commitment to cultural diplomacy as a bridge for friendship and tourism growth. Each event leaves behind more than memories—it sparks curiosity, fosters mutual respect, and paves the way for stronger partnerships. As Vietnam continues to share its heritage with the world, it opens doors for more visitors to experience the country’s landscapes, flavors, and traditions, ensuring its story resonates far beyond its borders.