“Highland Market – Welcome 2026” Festival celebrates ethnic heritage and traditions

Welcome 2026 with music, crafts and flavors at Vietnam's lively 'Highland Market,' set in Hanoi's scenic suburbs.

Bring home a piece of culture with colorful toys made by ethnic minority artisans at the Highland Market. Photo courtesy of Vietnam National Village for Ethnic Culture and Tourism

Running from January 1 to 4, 2026 at the Vietnam National Village for Ethnic Culture and Tourism in Son Tay Town, Doai Phuong Commune, Hanoi, the festival will feature over 100 participants from 16 ethnic groups, including Nung, Tay, Dao, Mong, Muong, Lao, Thai, Kho Mu, Ta Oi, Ba Na, Xo Dang, Gia Rai, Co Tu, Raglai, E De and Khmer. In addition, residents from 11 localities where ethnic reside daily, from Thai Nguyen, Ha Giang, and Hoa Binh to Gia Lai, Kon Tum , and Soc Trang will bring their vibrant cultures and traditions to the event.

The festival's lineup offers a rich tapestry of experiences. Visitors can explore traditional crafts, from forging Phuc Sen knives to weaving Lao ethnic fabrics. Folk song and dance programs such as “Mong Villages Joyfully Welcome Tet” and “The Joy of Welcoming the New Year” fill the festival with music, movement, and joyous celebration.

Celebrate 2026 at the Highland Market within Hanoi's heart by trying the H'Mong ethnic swing.

The centerpiece of the festival is the Highland Market – Welcoming the New Year 2026, a lively cultural space where highland communities gather to reflect on the past year and celebrate the arrival of the new one. Guests can immerse themselves in the vibrant market atmosphere, enjoying Hmong flute performances, rice cake pounding with local youth, and traditional games like stick pushing, tug-of-war, and ball throwing. The market also showcases ethnic cuisine, local products, and traditional crafts from groups including the H'Mong, Dao, Thai, and other northern ethnic communities.

No visit would be complete without savoring the culinary delights of the Northwest, from fragrant corn wine and five-colored sticky rice to village specialties such as Duong Lam roasted pork. The festival promises an unforgettable journey through Vietnam's cultural diversity, offering both locals and tourists a festive and immersive way to welcome the New Year 2026.

By Jenna Duong

Source: http://sodulich.hanoi.gov.vn/highland-market-welcome-2026-festival-celebrates-ethnic-heritage-and-traditions.html