The spirit of old Hanoi will sweep through the Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi this month as it celebrates lunar new year (Tet) with a traditional Old Quarter-style market from January 17 to 19.

Vendors on the hotel’s patio will sell authentic Vietnamese favorites while children will be given traditional toys known as “to he” - edible figurines made from glutinous rice powder shaped to look like flowers and animals. Market-goers can also learn the art of classic Vietnamese calligraphy.

Wine, craft beer, and other refreshments will also be on offer, as will souvenirs that visitors can take home as memories of Vietnamese Tet. Traditional-style Hanoi houses will also be erected in the hotel’s walkway outside La Boutique du Metropole, adding to the “Old Quarter” ambiance.

The Tet market is open to the public each day and kicks off on Friday January 17 at 4pm with an opening ceremony featuring a traditional dragon dance. The market continues on January 18 and 19 from 11am to 8pm. More than 15 vendors will take part in this year’s bazaar. Special Metropole Tet hampers with luxury and gourmet items have been available for sale at L’Epicerie du Metropole since January 6 and will also be sold at the market.

The hotel will host a cooking competition at the market at 5pm each day. On January 17, contestants will vie to see who can create the most delicious “banh chung” (a traditional Vietnamese rice cake), while January 18 will witness a battle of “banh cuon”, and January 19 will determine who is able to produce the tastiest spring rolls. Winners will receive a voucher for a complimentary homemade cake from L’Epicerie du Metropole.

A Vietnamese floral specialist from local boutique Liti Florist will host a flower workshop from 2pm to 4pm on January 18.

Sofitel Legend is an illustrious selection of heritage luxury hotels managed by AccorHotels. Set within beautiful and culturally-rich destinations, each legendary retreat is both timeless and elegant, delivering lavish settings, renowned restaurants, and modern comforts matched with impeccable service for the ultimate luxury experience.