Weekend Walking Street

Unclaimed

I stayed in the old quarter for 3 days, about 2 blocks from walking st. The first day was Friday morning, I am an early riser so about 6:30 I went out for a walk. That early in the morning was mostly older people exercising, large groups doing aerobics together, running around the large lake there. As the night/ weekend arrive there a massive amount of people in the street walking around. Playing games , kids driving little electric cars all over, vendors of all sorts lining the streets.there is a band of 4 older gents playing music as you walk on the one side. As I sat next to the lake enjoying the scenery, the one thing that happened everyday while I was there, we’re teachers and children coming up to me to talk to the kids in English. They all are very friendly and want to find out where you are from, what animals favorite, One girl she was 7. She spoke wonderful English, she told me every state on the east coast, star spangle banner, pledge of allegiance, learning English from the computer, says is how she learns from her teacher. Telling me her favorite animal is a snake! She says she loves holding them. I was amazed by how much she knew at the age of 7,already speaking 2 languages. I sat there for an hour talking to her. As she taught me some words in Vietnamese. It was definitely an experience I wasn’t expecting. There’s all kinds of activities going on as well, bat mitten, a form of hacky sack with looks like a small arrow. You can also sit down at the many coffee/ tea shops that are surrounding the area.

We stayed nearby and quite fond walking around the area on weekend when the closed off the area to become a pedestrian street. It was super busy and quite hectic when we were there maybe because it’s almost the celebration of the 70th years liberation of Hanoi or maybe it’s just like that every weekend. The locals and visitors were all poring down the street strolling around or sitting down at benches dotted around the lake, a lot of peddlers setting up their stalls with food, drinks, cards, children toys, you name them.. some people dancing old style dance at the corner nearby and a concert banging on music at the other corner. Very lively atmosphere and worth visiting

Walking Street Hanoi is a vibrant and lively area in the heart of the city, offering a unique blend of local culture, food, and entertainment. Located around Hoan Kiem Lake, it comes alive on weekends when the streets are closed off to cars, allowing pedestrians to roam freely. The area is filled with street vendors, musicians, performers, and art displays, creating an engaging atmosphere for both locals and tourists. It's a great spot to explore traditional Vietnamese snacks, shop for souvenirs, or simply enjoy the lively energy of the city. While it can get crowded, the experience is definitely worth it for anyone wanting to experience the dynamic spirit of Hanoi.

During a recent stopover in Hanoi we knew exactly where we were heading that afternoon / evening……...the Weekend Walking Street located around Hoan Kiem Lake! There are street food vendors, market stalls, musicians and loads of activities for children. The idea is that the city of Hanoi gives this area back to local families over the weekend - closing it down to traffic - and it is was such a joy to be part of it. Seeing everyone having so much fun and enjoying such simple pleasures made us (and everyone else around us) smile no end! An absolute must do!!

Visiting Hanoi's Weekend Walking Street with my family was a delightful experience that immersed us in the city's vibrant culture and community spirit. As we arrived at Hoan Kiem Lake on a Saturday evening, the area had transformed into a lively pedestrian zone, free from the usual traffic. The streets were bustling with families, couples, and tourists, all enjoying the festive atmosphere. Our children were thrilled to participate in traditional Vietnamese folk games like ô ăn quan (Mandarin square capturing) and shuttlecock kicking. These activities not only entertained them but also provided a glimpse into Vietnam's rich cultural heritage . The street performances were a highlight of our visit. We enjoyed live music ranging from traditional Vietnamese melodies to contemporary pop songs, creating an energetic and inclusive environment. The performers' enthusiasm was contagious, and it was heartwarming to see people of all ages dancing and singing along. Food stalls lined the streets, offering a variety of local delicacies. We savored dishes like bún chả, phở, and the famous Trang Tien ice cream. The flavors were authentic and delicious, providing a true taste of Hanoi's culinary scene. As we strolled through the night market, we found an array of souvenirs, handicrafts, and clothing. The vendors were friendly and engaging, making the shopping experience enjoyable for the whole family. Overall, Hanoi's Weekend Walking Street offered a memorable evening filled with cultural activities, entertainment, and delectable food. It's a must-visit for families seeking to experience the heart and soul of Hanoi in a lively and welcoming setting.