A slew of activities have commenced in Vietnam to commemorate the third UNESCO-initiated International Day of Happiness.

>> An audio version of the story is available here

According to the Family Affairs Office under the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism, a wide array of activities are being organized in several Vietnamese cities from Monday to this Sunday to celebrate the International Day of Happiness on March 20.

Some of the weeklong highlights include mass weddings for young, needy couples; celebrations of elderly couples’ nuptial bliss; music performances; poem recitals; and workshops which accentuate marital, familial, individual, and organizational happiness.

The events are meant to boost locals’ awareness of cherishing familial and nuptial bliss and saying no to domestic violence and abuse.

Among those held in Ho Chi Minh City is a photo exhibition, “Hanh Phuc Ngay Sum Hop” (Ecstasy on Reunion Day), which is running along Dong Khoi Street in the city’s downtown.

An art performance and exchange titled “Songs of Happiness” is also set to take place at the Municipal Theater on Thursday.

The International Day of Happiness was initiated by the United Nations General Assembly in June 2012 and has been celebrated every year throughout the world since March 20, 2013.

One hundred and ninety-three member countries, including Vietnam, have pledged to express support for the day with tremendous efforts to improve local life quality and boost sustainable socio-economic growth.

The Southeast Asian country began celebrating the day last year.

Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam!