On the evening of February 27, the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Culture and Sports presided over and coordinated with relevant units to organize the 2026 Culture and Tourism Opening Festival program with the theme "Khởi Sắc Tinh Hoa", at Tam Thang Square (Bai Sau area, Vung Tau ward).
This is a brilliant opening event for the 2026 festival and tourism season, bringing a lively experiential space, imbued with local identity. In which, the highlight of the cultural and artistic program is the "fire opening ceremony".
This is a ritual imbued with historical imprints, through elaborate stage art, recreating the heroic Phuoc Thang fortress battle against the French army in the past. Through this, it not only reminds us of our ancestors' tradition of steadfast and indomitable national defense, but also is a symbol of breakthrough, marking a new year full of luck, development and prosperity for the culture and tourism industry in particular and the socio-economy of Ho Chi Minh City in general.
At the same time, the program also performs art performances, introducing festivals, programs, and major events on culture, sports, and tourism of Ho Chi Minh City in 2026. Introducing cultural and tourist destinations, typical scenic spots of Ho Chi Minh City.
According to the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Culture and Sports, the theme "Khởi Sắc Tinh Hoa" not only carries the meaning of starting the new year but also a strategic message of prosperity from heroic traditions; cultural creativity; from sea and tourism potential, spirit of international integration... of the city. Through the program, it contributes to preserving and spreading heritage values, promoting community connection. At the same time, promoting friendly and unique tourism images to domestic and international friends; raising the brand of Ho Chi Minh City on the regional map.
Within the framework of the opening event of the 2026 Culture - Tourism Festival, on February 27, a series of sea sports activities took place with sailing, paragliding and Jetski, paddleboarding, flyboarding and jet skiing... in Bai Sau area, Vung Tau ward; gathering about 100 professional athletes to compete and perform special performances.
At the same time, along Thuy Van Park (Bai Sau area), a special culinary program is also organized; along with lively activities, parades; check-in area for festivals... serving people and tourists.
