Hoi An launches Light Off Hour – periodic tourist product

      Authorities in the central city of Hoi An have decided to hold a monthly “Light Off Hour” on the lunar 14th night, to join the Earth Hour Campaign 2009 organized by the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) as well as to launch a new tourist product for the ancient town.
Light Off Hour is themed on previous events “Night in Ancient Town” and “City Without Motor” which are gradually losing their significance after eleven years of implementation. The new program aims to provide calmness as the city is lit with the sparkling lights of colored lanterns hanging on the corners of the streets, said Nguyen Su, Chief of Hoi An’s Party Committee.
All light bulbs and unnecessary electricity equipment will be turned off in the city for one hour, from 8:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. on March 28. Residents and tourists are encouraged to join the program and to use environment-friendly light, such as candles and lanterns.
The evening will also feature a flower lantern festival, traditional music show on the river and ethnic instrument performances.
In July the city plans to recreate Hoi An City as it was in the early 20th century, said Su, adding that tourists will experience the daily life of ancient Hoi An’s residents with trading activities and traditional costumes.