“Travelling to Paris” in the heart of Hanoi

During the three-day event, Hanoians and visitors will have chance to discover and experience the finest French products, fine cultural identities, French lifestyle of people, and especially the culinary art of France showcased at over 60 booths. 

A series of art shows performed by both Vietnamese and French artists will also take place during the festival, contributing to connecting artists of the two countries in particular and people of Vietnam and France in general.

French Ambassador to Vietnam Bertrand Lortholary stated that the first "Balade en France" in Hanoi is a cultural bridge to connect Vietnam and France, creating an amazing opportunity for Hanoians and tourists to visit a copy of Montorgueil street in Paris, go shopping at small shops, watch living statues and enjoy French music in the heart of Hanoi.

French Ambassador to Vietnam Bertrand Lortholary speaking at the press conference.

He also hoped that the event will further promote the tourism and education sectors of the two countries as well as encourage Vietnamese people to travel to France for cultural experience.

In particular, the festival will also uphold the spirit of responding to climate change by organizing a 6-meter Christmas tree lighting ceremony. This special tree was made of 1,000 plastic bottles containing 1,000 pledges of participants of protecting the environment.

French Ambassador Bertrand Lortholary emphasized that the French Embassy in Vietnam wants to convey a message of "Green Embassy" commitment, minimizing negative impacts of the event to the environment as well as to raise public awareness of environmental protection.  

All of the booths at the event are stuck with notes reminding people of using recycled materials instead of plastic bags. Visitors will also have opportunity to learn more about daily routines that can help reduce wastes, especially plastic, as well as minimize carbon footprints when moving in the city.