This April, pho lovers across Vietnam and around the world are invited to experience a truly special culinary celebration—the Hanoi Pho Festival 2025. Scheduled to take place from April 18 to 20 at the historic Thang Long Imperial Citadel (Cot Co Stadium area) of Hanoi Capital, this event is more than a food festival—it is a cultural bridge that connects the culinary heart of Vietnam with the world.
Bringing together more than 50 booths representing renowned pho culinary brands and businesses from the North, Central, and South of Vietnam, the Hanoi Pho Festival 2025 promises to showcase the extraordinary diversity and rich heritage of Vietnam’s most iconic dish: pho. From the subtle elegance of Northern pho, the aromatic flavors of Central variations, to the bold and sweet undertones of Southern styles, the festival offers a rare opportunity to explore the many faces of pho in one place.
A Celebration of Cultural Heritage
At its core, the Hanoi Pho Festival 2025 is a tribute to pho, especially Pho Hanoi, which has been officially recognized as a national intangible cultural heritage. This recognition highlights the cultural, historical, and emotional significance that pho holds in the Vietnamese identity.
The festival is organized by the City Convention Center in collaboration with the Department of Tourism and the Thang Long – Hanoi Heritage Conservation Center. The goal is not only to celebrate pho as a dish but also to promote the broader image of Hanoi’s culinary scene, positioning it as a cultural asset and economic driver in tourism and gastronomy.
Discover the Flavorful Diversity of Pho
Visitors will have the chance to savor and learn about the different regional pho styles:
- Pho from the North: Known for its clear, fragrant broth and focus on simplicity and balance, Northern-style pho, especially Pho Hanoi, emphasizes the natural taste of bone broth and beef, served with flat rice noodles, scallions, and a touch of lime or chili.
- Pho from the Central Region: Bringing in a more complex flavor profile with bold spices and unique herbs, pho from places like Hue often features richer broths and local variations that reflect the region’s royal culinary traditions.
- Pho from the South: Southern-style pho is typically sweeter, with more generous portions of fresh herbs, bean sprouts, hoisin sauce, and chili sauce. It’s a vibrant, colorful version that reflects the open, tropical culture of the south.
With dozens of booths to explore, each representing different culinary traditions and interpretations of pho, visitors will enjoy a diverse and delicious journey through Vietnam’s pho landscape.
Beyond the Bowl: Cultural Activities and Performances
The Pho Festival 2025 is more than just a tasting event. The program includes curated spaces dedicated to the history and traditions of pho, where guests can learn about the origins of the dish, the evolution of its recipes, and its role in daily Vietnamese life. Cooking demonstrations, workshops, and interactive exhibits will allow attendees to engage more deeply with the culture behind the cuisine.
Moreover, the festival will feature live discussions, art performances, and cultural showcases. These activities aim to connect visitors with the artistry of Vietnamese cooking and provide context to the food experience. It’s a chance for both locals and tourists to not only eat Pho Hanoi, but to understand its cultural roots and the stories of the people who make it.
Connecting Communities and Promoting Brands
An essential mission of the Pho Festival is to serve as a bridge between culinary artisans, craft villages, local businesses, and international visitors. By gathering brands from all over the country, the event offers a platform to promote Vietnamese cuisine and support the growth of food-related industries.
The festival encourages collaboration and exchange, giving businesses the opportunity to network, share knowledge, and promote their regional products to a broader audience. This contributes not only to cultural preservation but also to economic development within Hanoi and beyond.
Join the Celebration of Hanoi Pho Festival 2025
Whether you’re a pho aficionado, a curious tourist, or someone who simply loves to eat well, the Hanoi Pho Festival 2025 is an event not to be missed. Come with an empty stomach and an open heart, and prepare to be amazed by the depth, diversity, and deliciousness of Vietnam’s beloved noodle soup.
From April 18 to 20, head to Thang Long Imperial Citadel, 19C Hoang Dieu Street, and immerse yourself in the flavors, aromas, and stories of pho—Vietnam’s soul in a bowl.
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