The information was revealed by Vice Chairwoman of the Can Tho City People’s Committee Nguyen Thi Ngoc Diep at a press conference, held on the afternoon of December 1.
With the theme “Can Tho – Colours of the Waterways”, the festival’s distinctive highlight is its opening programme, which begins with a river parade held on the evening of December 26 at the Pedestrian Bridge area and Ninh Kieu Wharf Park.
Vibrantly decorated boats and sampans will move one after another along the Hau River, blending with the melodies of don ca tai tu echoing across the riverside space, interwoven with lively street dance and lion–dragon dance performances along central streets, creating a bustling, joyful atmosphere imbued with the cultural identity of the water-rich Mekong Delta.
The festival’s opening art programme is elaborately staged with professional artists, actors and dancers from theatres and art units across the country. The performance will take place on a floating stage on the Hau River, vividly portraying the culture, daily life and cuisine of riverine communities, while honouring the rustic charm and heartfelt character of the people of the southern region.
During the opening night, audiences will enjoy a spectacular drone light show combined with artistic fireworks, harmonising sound, light and the vibrant colours of folk culture.
Within the framework of the festival, numerous cultural, tourism, sports and experiential activities will be organised, creating a lively festive atmosphere that captivates visitors. Notably, for the first time, Can Tho will hold a sailing race on the Hau River as part of the festival.
This event aims to create a cultural–tourism highlight to welcome the New Year 2026, contributing to a joyful and vibrant atmosphere and enhancing the cultural and spiritual life of the people. It also contributes to introducing and promotes the unique riverine cultural characteristics of the Mekong Delta in general and Can Tho City in particular to domestic and international visitors; while raising community awareness about environmental protection, especially the river ecosystem, and encouraging sustainable tourism development.
