On the afternoon of February 11, the 2026 Spring Calligraphy Festival opened at Ho Van Lake within the Temple of Literature special national relic site, alongside a series of cultural and artistic activities welcoming the new spring.
Le Xuan Kieu, director of the Temple of Literature Centre for Cultural and Scientific Activities, said this year’s festival carries the theme “National learning”, marking the 950th anniversary of Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university.
Organisers said the 2026 edition features a renewed layout and upgraded facilities around the Ho Van area, creating a setting that blends traditional aesthetics with a contemporary spirit.
Among the calligraphers is Hoang Anh Diep, a veteran of Ho Van for 18 years and the only female calligrapher taking part this year. She said visitors often request characters symbolising peace and prosperity, with each stroke reflecting hopes for a harmonious year ahead.
Phuong Anh, a visitor from Hanoi, posed for photos with Diep after requesting the character “Binh An” (peace), saying she hoped for a calm and smooth new year.
Beyond calligraphy, the site has been divided into zones for art exhibitions, heritage experiences, traditional crafts and culinary culture, drawing large crowds and turning the area into a popular destination for early spring outings.
Decorated with bamboo, couplets, folk paintings and 2026 symbols, the spring-themed displays have also attracted visitors seeking festive photo backdrops.
Traffic along Quoc Tu Giam Street has remained heavy in recent days, with occasional congestion as residents and tourists gather at the historic complex.
