A variety of cultural programmes kicked off today in HCM City to celebrate the 80th anniversary of the founding of the Vietnam Women's Union (October 20).

A photo exhibition opened at the city's Women Cultural House on Oct.19, featuring the latest collections of female artists from Hai Au Club, a leading photography club for women.

The show includes black-and-white and colour photos that portray the beauty of Hanoi and its people through the eyes of skilled photographers like Dao Hoa Nu.

Seminars and forums that highlight the work and success of Vietnamese women in modern life are also included.

Dozens of specialists in health care, beauty and marriage and family problems were invited to talk with the events' participants.

Dam Sen Park worked with its partners, including the city's Women Association and Youth Union, to host a festival called Rose Festival Day offering various music and dance programmes, traditional games and sport competitions for women and their family.

Veteran and young performers will sing and dance in praise of women.

Women with high achievements in business and art were also honoured.

In Hanoi , flower sellers expect to increase sales as this is a popular time of the year for people to show their love to women.

Prices, however, have gone up as much 20,000 VND (1 USD) for one rose, seven times higher than usual.

Gift shops around the city are filled with cards, perfumes, cosmetics and compact discs, with prices about 10 percent more than usual.

This year, the Phu Nhuan Jewellery Company is offering more than 30 different kinds of jewellery designed under a "female" theme. Prices range from 50,000 VNDto more than VND1 million per item.

Supermarkets like Co-op Mart and Big C have also offered special promotions to satisfy the demand of the market this day.

Many primary and secondary schools across the country have also prepared special activities to celebrate the event./.