Located about 10 kilometers from the center of Nam Dinh ward, Bao Dap has long been renowned for its age-old tradition of crafting star lanterns. The village consists of seven hamlets and around 1,000 households, most of whom are Catholic. Despite the passage of time, this craft remains deeply rooted in the community, evoking fond childhood memories for generations of Vietnamese people.

Today, an estimated 300 households are still actively involved in the trade, producing hundreds of thousands of lanterns of various sizes each year.

From miniature lanterns just 15–20 centimeters in diameter to large, elaborate designs nearly a meter wide, Bao Dap’s star lanterns are not only popular across northern provinces but are also shipped to distant markets, including Ho Chi Minh City.

From early June and July on the lunar calendar, Bao Dap Village enters its busiest season. Every road and narrow alley bursts with the vibrant colors of cellophane, the rhythmic sounds of bamboo being split and shaped, and the cheerful laughter of villagers echoing from morning until night.

Front yards, porches, and even empty lots along the roadside are transformed into bustling craft workshops.

Bamboo strips are dried under the sun until they turn a golden yellow, each star frame is arranged in a long row.

To make a lantern, the craftsman must go through many steps.

First, the bamboo frames are carefully bent into five-pointed stars and secured with thin steel wire. Then, colorful cellophane is skillfully stretched and glued over the frame, allowing candlelight to glow through the translucent paper.

The final touches include attaching a handle, decorative tassels, and a small platform to hold the candle. Though the process may seem simple, it requires great care and patience—especially during the papering and decorating stages.

“This craft has been in my family for generations. Every Mid-Autumn festival, we all work together. On average, we make about 300 to 400 small lanterns—about 20 centimeters in diameter—each day. Each finished lantern earns us around 5,000 VND (20 US cents) from the suppliers,” said a Bao Dap villager.

“When I was a child, I followed my parents in this work. Now, my children and grandchildren are continuing the tradition. I hope to keep this profession alive. Each star lantern not only brings in income but also carries pride, as it spreads the spirit of the Vietnamese Mid-Autumn festival far and wide,” said Ms. Lan, another local resident.

Bao Dap star lanterns are sold on the market for between 38 US cents for small sizes and up to 5.7 USD for large ones. Thanks to their diverse designs and affordable prices, these lanterns continue to be in high demand.

Despite the growing presence of mass-produced toys, Bao Dap Village remains steadfast in preserving its age-old tradition. The handmade star lanterns created by the skillful villagers not only brighten Mid-Autumn nights but also help keep alive a unique and cherished element of Vietnamese folk culture.