Ho Chi Minh City (VNA) – Ho Chi Minh City’s 2026 Culture and Tourism Festival officially opened on February 27, featuring a wide range of cultural, artistic and tourism activities aimed at promoting the city’s image and strengths.
The opening ceremony, held in Vung Tau ward, was highlighted by a ceremonial cannon firing that recreated the historic battle at Phuoc Thang Fortress, symbolising a breakthrough spirit and a prosperous new beginning for the city’s tourism sector and socio-economic development. The programme also featured drum performances and lion – dragon dances, inspiring national pride and raising awareness of maritime sovereignty.
Adding to the festive atmosphere was a lighted paragliding performance by the municipal Paragliding and Kite Sports Federation. Five powered aerial vehicles equipped with lights and fireworks created a dazzling display in the skies over Tam Thang Square.
At the same time, a series of marine sports activities such as sailing, flyboarding, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) and jet surfing along Thuy Van beach showcased the city’s potential in developing its marine economy and high-end tourism services.
Speaking at the event, Vice Chairwoman of the municipal People’s Committee Tran Thi Dieu Thuy said the festival serves as a platform to introduce the city’s potential and strengths, and demonstrate the strong vitality and endless creativity of a dynamic and compassionate metropolis.
The event also conveys the message “Preserving identity – Creating opportunities”, affirming the city’s commitment to sustainable development based on traditional cultural values while transforming heritage into a driving force for growth.
In 2026, Ho Chi Minh City aims to further strengthen its tourism brand as an impressive, friendly and safe destination. The festival helps connect well-known landmarks such as the Independence Palace, Ben Thanh Market and the Cu Chi Tunnels with coastal destinations including Vung Tau, Ho Tram, Long Hai and Con Dao, as well as major attractions like the Dai Nam Tourist Area and Dau Tieng Lake.
Following the launch, the city will continue to host a series of major cultural events, including the Ao Dai Festival, the “Unified Homeland” Festival marking the Liberation of the South and National Reunification Day, the International Light Festival, along with brass band and puppet festivals.
By maintaining a vibrant festival calendar after the Lunar New Year (Tet) holiday and developing inter-regional tourism routes linking urban, coastal and ecological destinations, the city aims to create memorable experiences for visitors, part of efforts to welcome 11 million international visitors and 50 million domestic travellers this year./.
