Hanoi during Christmas: strolling around the Grand Cathedral, Cua Bac Gate, and Ham Long Street.

In recent days, the Christmas spirit has permeated many churches in Hanoi . The Grand Cathedral on Nha Tho Street has completed its decorations, featuring a dazzling nativity scene next to a towering Christmas tree, attracting many visitors for photos. Cua Bac Church (Ba Dinh ward) has finished its nativity scene and is awaiting the completion of its lighting. At Ham Long Church, installation work is progressing rapidly, and the lights are regularly switched on at dusk.

Take a stroll through the Christmas atmosphere in downtown Hanoi.

Cathedral: dazzling grotto, giant pine tree

The first to be completed was the Grand Cathedral. Outside, a brightly colored grotto was erected next to a pine tree dozens of meters tall, becoming a favorite backdrop for photos. Tourists, both domestic and international, stop for a long time to admire and take pictures.

Daniel and his friends from Malaysia shared their thoughts after taking photos here: “I felt the joyful atmosphere of Hanoi before Christmas, from the shops to the entertainment venues. I was truly impressed.”

Cua Bac Church: Nativity scene completed, awaiting lighting.

At Cua Bac Church (Ba Dinh Ward, Hanoi), decorating and installing string lights is underway. The nativity scene is complete, only awaiting the finishing touches on the lighting system. For many years, this has been one of the most anticipated attractions for locals and tourists every Christmas season.

Ham Long Church: hastily installed, lights switched on from dusk.

On the afternoon of December 9th, workers were busy installing the lighting system in front of the Ham Long church entrance. Mr. Vinh inspected the lighting inside the large Christmas tree in the grounds, stating that the decorations began a month ago, and only a few items remain, with completion expected in the next few days.

In recent evenings, the area has been illuminated, its Christmas lights attracting many visitors. Not only in the grounds, but also the large trees along the street are covered with sparkling lights, creating a dazzling scene at night.

Quick tips for a Christmas stroll

The best time: dusk, when the decorative lights are turned on and the colors are vibrant.
Suggested experience: Visit the Cathedral on Church Street to take photos of the nativity scene and Christmas tree; then move on to Cua Bac and Ham Long to experience the ongoing decorations.
Be aware of crowds: these spots attract many tourists and locals in the evening, so plan your time accordingly for taking photos.

Practical information

The Grand Cathedral: located on Church Street; the decorations are complete, featuring a dazzling nativity scene and a Christmas tree tens of meters tall.
Cua Bac Church: Ba Dinh ward, Hanoi; the grotto is complete, awaiting the finishing touches on the lighting system.
Ham Long Church: On the afternoon of December 9th, workers were seen installing lights; decorations began a month ago, with only a few items remaining and expected to be completed in the next few days; the lights have been switched on in the evenings in recent days.