According to Pham Huy Binh, Deputy Director of the municipal Department of Tourism, the month-long festival aimed to honour and promote traditional cultural values as well as the beauty and grace of the ao dai, which has become the symbol of feminine beauty in Viet Nam.

The event featured a series of cultural and arts activities, attracting the participation of local residents and foreign visitors.

Prominent among them are a parade involving 200 students cycling to cultural and historical sites around the city to promote environmental protection, and photo exhibitions entitled ‘Ao dai through the Ages’ in museums.

An ao dai fair to display and trade dresses and related accessories was held, along with talk shows and relevant contests.

In addition, local residents are encouraged to wear an ao dai in their daily life throughout March.