Hanoi, HCMC draw crowds for Halloween celebrations

By Thanh Tung, An Khuong, Hoang Giang   October 31, 2024 | 06:27 pm PT
Thousands of people dressed as demons and other characters gathered at Nguyen Hue and Bui Vien pedestrian streets in Ho Chi Minh City and Hang Ma Street in Hanoi to celebrate Halloween on Thursday night.
Hanoi, HCMC draw crowds for Halloween celebrations

Do Thanh Nhan, who dressed as the snake-haired goddess Medusa, said it took a month and a half to prepare his outfit, which cost him VND8 million (US$316).

"I'm thrilled that people are gathering around to take pictures with me," he said.

Hanoi, HCMC draw crowds for Halloween celebrations

Costume designer Trang Nee also joined the festivities, donning a self-designed costume that was not based on any particular character.

Hanoi, HCMC draw crowds for Halloween celebrations

Young men were spotted dressed as the Grim Reaper on Nguyen Hue Street.

Hanoi, HCMC draw crowds for Halloween celebrations

Two South Korean tourists portrayed the "No Face" character, a dark spirit with a white mask, from Japanese folklore.

They filmed the moment and shared it on social media.

Hanoi, HCMC draw crowds for Halloween celebrations

Just 1.4 kilometers from Nguyen Hue, Bui Vien Street, a lively hub of bars and clubs, was equally bustling with crowds attending the "Night of the Souls" event.

Hanoi, HCMC draw crowds for Halloween celebrations

Bars and pubs were decorated with Halloween themes to attract tourists, although celebrations have been scaled back this year due to economic difficulties.

"We started decorating the bar with a Halloween theme two weeks ago. This year, things are simpler and less extravagant than in previous years," said a bar owner.

Hanoi, HCMC draw crowds for Halloween celebrations

Tourists dressed as ghosts roamed the 850-meter-long street, enjoying the lively atmosphere.

Hanoi, HCMC draw crowds for Halloween celebrations

Hong Van and Uyen Phuong (R) from HCMC's District 1 took inspiration for their costumes from the horror film "Carrie".

"It’s our first time here, and the atmosphere is fantastic," said Phuong.

Hanoi, HCMC draw crowds for Halloween celebrations

In Hanoi, the 300-meter-long Hang Ma Street was packed with crowds from 9 p.m.

Hanoi, HCMC draw crowds for Halloween celebrations

"I took my children to Hang Ma for Halloween celebration and they dressed as No-Face character," said Hong, 26.

Hanoi, HCMC draw crowds for Halloween celebrations

A girl takes pictures with a Roman warrior character on Hang Ma Street.

"I feel great, it took me two hours to get dressed and it was worth it," said Samuel from Brazil, dressed as the warrior.

 
 
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