More than 2,000 drones paint Hanoi's landmarks in New Year's skies

Hanoi International Light Festival 2025 kicks off on January 18 at Hanoi's West Lake with an awe-inspiring New Year's display of 2025 drone lights set to traditional Vietnamese music with top artists.  

Thousands of drones light up Hanoi's West Lake. Photo: Viet Hoang/The Hanoi Times

According to Dang Le Minh Tri, chief director of the light show, the light concert will be an unprecedented symphony of light and music on the largest scale ever, promising a satisfying performance in the skies of Hanoi under the theme "Shine Your Vibes."

For the first time ever, the show will use 2,025 drones - the largest number of drones ever flown in such a performance - to create a synchronized light show with laser effects, a symphonic score and renowned singers and performers on stage.

The 120-minute event is designed to create unique images and tell stories about the millennial history and cultural heritage in the capital. 

"Our program promises an unforgettable experience with many 'cultural codes' hidden in each performance, where Hanoi's heritage will be brought out to the fullest," said Tri.

The drones will draw pictures of a city with a thousand years of civilization, or Hang Trong folk paintings as the backdrop for a lively and modern song, among many others. 

Event co-organizer Le Quoc Minh, Editor-in-Chief of the Communist Party of Vietnam's (CPV) Nhan Dan Newspaper, said the event is more than a spectacular display of music and light; it is also heritage celebration and promoting the capital as a leading cultural and creative hub in the region.

The event is expected to become an annual highlight and contribute to Hanoi's nighttime economy. It will also spread a joyful atmosphere to welcome the New Year.

Vice Chairwoman of Tay Ho People's Committee Bui Thi Lan Phuong said the concert will meet people's expectations and become a recurring event every New Year.

An area large enough for thousands of spectators has been set up. Many large LED screens were also installed for people to watch the show from afar.