
Vietnam’s largest metropolis expands its year-end festivities with multiple countdown stages, cultural events, and coastal celebrations as domestic tourism surges.
Ho Chi Minh City has unveiled its official plan for the 2026 New Year celebrations, confirming that the city will launch fireworks at four locations at midnight on January 1. The announcement comes as Vietnam’s tourism and nightlife economies continue to rebound sharply, with major cities elevating public events to attract both residents and visitors.
From 00:00 to 00:15 on January 1, the city will host three high-altitude fireworks displays at:
- The Saigon River tunnel entrance (An Khánh Ward)
- The Thu Duc City central district (Bình Dương Ward)
- Tam Thắng Square (Vũng Tàu Ward)
A low-altitude fireworks show will also be held at Đầm Sen Cultural Park in Bình Thới Ward — historically one of the city’s most popular family-friendly venues.
Alongside the fireworks, Ho Chi Minh City will roll out extensive art light installations, street decorations, and cultural performances across downtown districts. The flagship New Year’s Eve countdown will take place on Nguyen Hue Walking Street, with expanded programming across Lê Lợi Boulevard and Lam Sơn Park to accommodate rising crowds.
The wider southeastern region will join the festivities.
- On December 31, Vũng Tàu will host “Awakening the 2025 Dawn” at Tam Thắng Tower Square featuring a running event, mass yoga performance, and evening arts program.
- A food and culture festival will run from December 27 to January 1 at Bãi Sau beach.
- Outdoor concerts and community celebrations will take place across Bình Dương — including Dầu Tiếng, Xuân Sơn, Bình Khánh — as well as Ho Chi Minh City’s districts such as Gò Vấp and Phú Thạnh.
With year-end travel expected to spike and consumer spending rising across the country, Ho Chi Minh City’s expanded New Year program signals its ambition to position itself as one of Southeast Asia’s top urban celebration hubs — blending tourism, culture, and public entertainment for millions of residents and visitors.
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Source: Vietnam Insider

