## Ho Chi Minh City Gears Up for Annual Festival: A Celebration of Culture, Tourism, and Sustainability
Ho Chi Minh City, the vibrant metropolis known for its bustling energy and cultural offerings, is gearing up for its annual festival. At a press conference held on May 22, the Vice Chairman highlighted the city’s ambition to host at least one prominent event each year, showcasing the unique brand of Ho Chi Minh City to both local and global audiences.
The festival, taking place from May 31 to June 9, will transform various venues across the city, including the Nha Rong-Khanh Hoi Wharf, Saigon Cruise Port, and other tourist hotspots. It aims to celebrate and promote the city’s tourism, economic, and cultural offerings while attracting visitors from near and far.
Beyond entertainment, the festival holds a deeper purpose. It is designed to foster sustainable development, showcasing Ho Chi Minh City as a riverine urban center steeped in cultural identity. This event will inspire exploration, encouraging visitors to discover the diverse destinations within the city and across Vietnam.
To cater to travelers’ needs, the Vietnam Travel and Communication JSC has crafted enticing tour packages with attractive itineraries. These tours will showcase the city’s urban landscape and connect popular tourist spots via its waterways.
Meanwhile, the Suoi Tien Theme Park in Thu Duc city will launch its 20th Southern Fruit Festival on June 1, offering a delightful experience for all ages. The District 8 People’s Committee will present the ‘Tren Ben Duoi Thuyen’ (On the Wharf – In the Boat) festival, a celebration of the unique cultural space of the western river region.
A trade-tourism promotion program will also facilitate connections between orchard owners and small traders, further enriching the festival experience.
Over 100 businesses have already announced special promotions and discounts for shopping, dining, and sightseeing during the festival period, ensuring an enjoyable experience for residents and tourists alike.
The first edition of this event, held in 2023, captivated over 6,000 spectators with five spectacular performances. These performances transported audiences back in time, recreating the cultural, economic, and lifestyle tapestry of Saigon – Cho Lon – Gia Dinh – Ho Chi Minh City, three centuries ago.