The central province of Thua Thien-Hue kicked off the Lotus Festival 2018 themed “Legend of a flower” on June 29^th, as part of a series of activities to promote Hue, a festival city of Vietnam.

The major stage is designed as a miniature lotus lake where a show of traditional long dresses with lotus patterns will be held along with music performances. (Photos: Le Huy Hoang Hai/VOV)

A show of Ao Dai with lotus designs from famous fashion designers in the city.

Stalls introduced products made from lotus and are designed with materials such as bamboo, lotus leaves and flowers.

Proceeds from an auction of paintings will be used to support poor households.

Demonstration of traditional crafts such as embroidering painting and conical hat making also attracted visitors.

Space for cuisine with booths designed in bamboo and lotus leaves and flowers, where dishes made from lotus were introduced by local cuisine artists known for their sophisticated cooking techniques.

Deputy Director of the provincial Department of Tourism Nguyen Van Phuc said lotus holds a special value in the lives of local residents. Lotus seed has long been considered good for health with rich nutrition. In particular, lotus seed in Tinh Tam lake is among top 50 Vietnamese specialties voted by the Vietnam Records Organisation.

According to the history, lotus grown in Tinh Tam lake is used to cook specialties for the Kings during the Nguyen dynasty. Thanks to rich alluvial soil, lotus seed here tastes delicious and sweet, different from those grown in other areas.

Lotus season begins in April and ends in July, when flowers fully bloom and yield mature seeds. During that time, large crowds of people often gather around the ponds to gaze at the beautiful flowers.

The festival will last till July 1^st./.

VNF