Christmas decorations are visible throughout the city, from the urban core to suburban areas. Colourful Christmas trees and elaborately crafted nativity scenes add to the seasonal charm.

For many families in Hue, Christmas is not only an important religious celebration but also a cherished occasion for reunion, bringing loved ones together to reflect on the values of connection and love.

Vo Van Thien, a parishioner in Thuan Hoa ward, said that for many local residents, Christmas has become an integral part of Hue’s community cultural life.

“Every year, at the beginning of December, we gather to discuss how to decorate the nativity scenes and raise funds to prepare for Christmas. It is done in a spirit of joy, togetherness, solidarity and mutual support. This strong sense of unity has been maintained for decades,” he shared.

Christmas in Hue becomes even more meaningful as the spirit of love is expressed through concrete acts of charity. Many parishes, churches and Catholic volunteer groups have organised visits and distributed gifts to the poor, people in difficult circumstances, patients and persons with disabilities.

Pham Ngoc Thanh, head of the Faith Education Committee of Phu Cam Cathedral Parish, said that thanks to contributions from benefactors, the parish has delivered hundreds of gift packages to disadvantaged individuals. Notably, the community meal programme “Sharing Life Together” has been maintained for the fourth consecutive year, providing more than 220 gift sets consisting of rice, essential supplies and cash to those in need.

“Every year, our parish usually organises a ‘Christmas Carol Night’ on December 25. However, this year, with the aim of supporting people affected by floods in central Vietnam, we decided not to hold the event and instead used the entire budget for parish groups to visit and assist flood-hit communities,” he said.

The Christmas atmosphere has spread across Hue’s central streets, residential areas and pedestrian zones. Festive lights and decorations brighten the city during the cold, rainy days, making the streets livelier and more inviting. Many cafés, restaurants, hotels and shopping centres have decorated Christmas trees, Santa Claus figures and gift boxes, attracting residents and visitors to stroll, take photos and enjoy moments of tranquility.

Hue is home to approximately 58,500 Catholics, with one major seminary, 155 worship facilities, five deaneries and 71 parishes. In recent years, the Catholic community in Hue has consistently accompanied local authorities and residents in social welfare and humanitarian activities, contributing to the city’s sustainable development.

According to Archbishop Joseph Dang Duc Ngan, Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Hue, Vietnam has faced numerous challenges this year due to widespread natural disasters and floods. However, timely support from the Party and the State, along with the strong spirit of solidarity and compassion shown by organisations and individuals, has helped communities overcome difficulties and look forward to a peaceful Christmas season and a hopeful new year.

“During this Christmas season and the New Year 2026, I wish all our compatriots, fellow Catholics across the country, and members of the Church a peaceful and joyful Christmas, and a new year filled with blessings, love, happiness, peace and hope,” the Archbishop said.

Amid Hue’s cool winter air, the glow of Christmas lights and the echoing church bells signal a season of peace, faith and renewed hope for the year ahead.

Hanoi’s St. Joseph’s Cathedral glows ahead of Christmas 2025

VOV.VN - St. Joseph’s Cathedral, one of Hanoi’s most iconic religious and architectural landmarks, has been beautifully decorated with festive lights, Christmas trees and nativity scenes ahead of Christmas 2025, creating a vibrant holiday atmosphere in the heart of the capital.