First Ho Chi Minh City River Festival launched

The first Ho Chi Minh City River Festival, which is taking place on August 4-6, will feature a series of tourism, entertainment, culture and sports events, on the Saigon River wharves and main canals in Ho Chi Minh City.
Chairman of Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee Phan Van Mai speaks at the launch ceremony (Photo: NDO)
Chairman of Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee Phan Van Mai speaks at the launch ceremony (Photo: NDO)

The festival was officially launched at the Thu Ngu Flagpole at Bach Dang Wharf in District, 1 on the morning of August 4.

This is a major tourism event in Ho Chi Minh City this year, to take advantage of economic values from the river system, towards shaping the brand of a river city in the near future.

Chairman of Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee Phan Van Mai said visitors can experience water tourism programmes and the space that recreates the life of residents in Saigon - Cho Lon - Gia Dinh through periods, as well as buying local specialities.

People can also immerse themselves in the exciting atmosphere of water sports activities, as well as cultural space and folk games at the Bach Dang Wharf and Lam Son Park.

A sailboat parade on the Saigon River.

A sailboat parade on the Saigon River.

A highlight of the festival is an art programme entitled “The river tells stories”, which will feature the history of riverside life by the Saigon River, with the participation of nearly 700 artists and folk artisans, scheduled for the evening of August 6.

The Ho Chi Minh City Department of Tourism will also announce 150 tour programmes, packages, and promotional products offered by more than 100 businesses for visitors during the festival.

NDO