The Hue Festival 2016 officially kicked off at the Ngo Mon (Noon Gate) with a range of artistic programmes in the ancient imperial citadel complex in Hue City , the central province of Thua Thien – Hue, on April 29.

At the opening ceremony.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Deputy Prime Minister Pham Binh Minh highlighted the significance of the annual event, saying that it has become a major cultural event which attracts a large number of domestic and foreign visitors annually.

He appreciated the local authorities for the success of the cultural event in recent years, expressing his belief that the Festival Hue 2016 will contribute to promoting the country’s culture and people to international friends, and strengthening culture exchange between Vietnam and other countries over the world.

Chairman of the provincial People’s Committee Nguyen Van Cao said the festival honours Vietnam’s traditional culture values and serves a bridge to boost connection among countries and territories worldwide.

As may as 36 art troupes officially registered to participate in the festival, including 23 troupes from 17 countries worldwide.

More than 50 activities will take place every night during the week-long event.

Besides the traditional stages in the Inner Citadel, An Dinh Palace, the Bia Quoc Hoc Squarer and the Central Cultural House, 11 new stages have been set up for large-scale art performances.

Along with artistic programmes featuring the characteristics of cultures worldwide and the quintessence of Vietnam ’s arts and culture, Hue ’s folklore arts and street arts will be given a chance to shine.

In addition, diverse cultural activities offer plenty of choices for visitors, ranging from exhibitions of photos and calligraphy, cuisine demo, to kite flying, sports contests, scientific workshops and trade fairs.

With the theme “Cultural heritage with integration and development,” the festival aims to honour the 710th anniversary of the region, Thua Thien-Hue (formerly known as Thuan Hoa, and then Phu Xuan).

VNA