Ho Chi Minh City has again proven itself as a hub of cultural vibrancy and historical richness with the grand launch of the 2nd Ho Chi Minh City River Festival 2024. This 10-day event has drawn tourists worldwide and crowds of local citizens eager to partake in the festivities celebrating the city’s dynamic riverine heritage.
From June 15 to June 25, 2024, the festival has scaled new heights, cementing Ho Chi Minh City’s reputation as a modern, lively metropolis. The festival started with the highly anticipated “Legendary Voyage” musical performance at Khanh Hoi Port. This grand opening, attended by 9,000 spectators, showcased a spectacular display of over 1,000 performers. The historical narrative was brought to life with cinematic effects, leveraging advanced technologies such as 3D mapping and drone shows, leaving the audience spellbound.
The heart of the festival lies in its vibrant celebration of river culture. Attendees can explore a recreated Mekong Delta floating market and indulge in the “Trên Bến Dưới Thuyền” fruit week, featuring boats overflowing with fresh flowers and fruits. The air is filled with the soulful sounds of Southern folk songs, and traditional games captivate visitors of all ages.
The festival also features an array of exhilarating water sports events. The open-water swimming championship, stand-up paddleboard championship, and various river sports performances offer thrilling experiences. Spectators can witness the excitement of SUP paddling, Flyboarding, and panoramic paragliding over the Saigon River. These events ensure a lively and immersive experience for all attendees.
Culinary enthusiasts can delight in the gastronomic offerings on Le Loi Street (District 1), where 24 booths showcase regional specialties across Vietnam. Visitors can savor beautifully presented traditional dishes, each reflecting the nation’s rich culinary heritage. This culinary area is a sensory feast, offering visual and gastronomic delights.
The grand finale of the festival is nothing short of breathtaking. The sky above the Saigon River lights up with 1,100 synchronized drones and laser lights, creating a mesmerizing visual display. A thrilling water sports performance features 100 athletes and 100 sports vehicles, including paragliders, jet skis, jetboards, flyboards, and sailing boats. The majestic parade of cruise boats, known as the “Sparkling River,” illuminates the river with iconic images of traditional Vietnamese cranes and the “WE LOVE HO CHI MINH CITY” symbols, leaving a lasting impression on tourists and locals.
The 2024 Ho Chi Minh City River Festival provides unforgettable experiences and significantly boosts tourism, showcasing the city’s vibrant, dynamic spirit. This celebration of cultural heritage and innovative advancements has firmly placed Ho Chi Minh City on the map as a premier destination for cultural festivities.
For more information about the festival and other events in Ho Chi Minh City, visit the city’s Official Tourism Website.
The Ho Chi Minh City River Festival 2024 promises an inspiring journey through the city’s rich cultural tapestry, leaving visitors with memories that will last a lifetime.
Written by: My Thanh Pham
