Thai Ha Church in Dong Da Ward stands out with its festive glow, as sparkling lights blend with greenery and flowers to illuminate a corner of the street.
Passing through the church gates, visitors are greeted by a giant, colourful Christmas tree bearing the message Merry Christmas, while the main entrance is lined with decorative lighting that creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Lan Anh, a student at the National College of Education, said she and a classmate were visiting Thai Ha Church for Christmas for the second year in a row. Each year brings a different decorative style, she said, encouraging them to seek out striking backdrops for photos before attending mass.
Nativity scenes depicting the story of Jesus and Christmas have been carefully designed and elaborately prepared, combining visual appeal with a strong sense of community among local parishioners.
The festive setting at Thai Ha Church attracts large numbers of people each Christmas season, many stopping to take photos and capture the warm holiday spirit.
Nguyen Van Ninh, 42, from Hanoi, Vietnam, said his family visits the church every Christmas. He described the decorations as especially beautiful and said he often brings relatives to enjoy the atmosphere and record memorable family moments.
Many residents and worshippers also gather to pray together before entering mass at Thai Ha Church, which was built in 1935 and has marked 90 years of history, becoming a religious landmark for generations of the capital’s Catholics.
Hanoi Cathedral is another major draw during Christmas, with festive decorations appearing from early December and attracting crowds of locals and tourists, particularly young people, who come to stroll and take photographs.
Some foreign visitors have joined the celebrations, including one who dressed as Santa Claus and happily posed for photos with young people amid the lively Christmas atmosphere.
Ham Long Church is also illuminated for the season, with thousands of lights adorning its exterior and creating a warm, vibrant festive scene.
