Quang Ninh (VNA) – As part of its strategy to position culture as a core driver of sustainable development, Quang Ninh province is rolling out a series of large-scale cultural, tourism, and sporting events throughout December.
These events are expected to draw between 10,000 and 50,000 visitors, contributing to the northern province’s goal of developing identity-rich culture linked with heritage and night-time economic activities.
A highlight of the month is the ceremony marking UNESCO’s recognition of the Yen Tu – Vinh Nghiem – Con Son, Kiep Bac relic and scenic complex as a world cultural heritage site. The celebration will be held from December 18 to 22 at the Yen Tu site by Quang Ninh province, Hai Phong city, and Bac Ninh province.
This heritage complex is a distinctive spiritual and cultural space associated with the formation and development of the Truc Lam Zen Buddhist sect, founded by King-Monk Tran Nhan Tong. The official ceremony, set for the evening of December 20 at Minh Tam Square, will follow UNESCO protocols and be broadcast live by Vietnam Television (VTV). A special music programme featuring renowned Vietnamese artists will accompany the event.
The schedule also includes a commemoration of the 717th anniversary of King-Monk Tran Nhan Tong’s attainment of nirvana and the Yen Tu Festival, themed “Heritage Journey – World Essence”. Activities range from an exhibition on the thousand-year heritage and a "One Commune, One Product" (OCOP) fair, a culinary festival to folk games, film screenings, and the 2025 Quang Ninh open cycling race.
On December 21, the Extra Special Night music festival will take place at Sun Carnival Square in Bai Chay ward, featuring a grand seaside concert and a fireworks show expected to attract 10,000 spectators.
The province will close the year with a large-scale New Year’s Eve art programme themed “Quang Ninh welcomes 2026 – Journey to the sun” on December 31 at October 30 Square. The 180-minute event will combine live music, EDM, modern visual technology, and a high-altitude fireworks display. Attendance is expected to reach 50,000, showcasing Quang Ninh’s image as a dynamic, creative, and forward-looking province.
In addition, the 17th Vietnam – China International Trade and Tourism Fair will run from December 11 to 15 in Mong Cai ward, featuring over 300 booths and a wide range of trade, investment, and tourism promotion activities between the two countries' border localities.
With meticulous preparations in infrastructure, security, logistics, health services, and communications, Quang Ninh expects this event series will serve as a major driver for its cultural industries and enhance its appeal as a vibrant and modern tourism destination./.
