Elevating Da Nang brand of ‘event city’
DNO - Following the recent administrative merger, Da Nang now boasts significant advantages to elevate its position as a premier event destination, thereby boosting strong tourism growth.
Recognizing tourism as one of its spearhead economic sectors, the city has actively invested in and developed a diverse chain of fascinating festivals and events to stimulate demand.
With its distinctive highlight - the Da Nang International Fireworks Festival, the city has twice been honoured as “Asia’s Leading Festival and Event Destination” in 2016 and 2022 at the World Travel Awards for Asia and Oceania.
Other annual events that have attracted large numbers of domestic and international visitors include the Quan The Am Festival at Marble Mountains, the Da Nang Asian Film Festival (DANAFF), and IRONMAN 70.3 Da Nang.
The recent merger with Quang Nam Province has added momentum for the city to position its “event city” brand. Particularly remarkable is Hoi An which has long been known for its rich culturally infused festivals.
Key events in Hoi An include the Cau Bong Tra Que Festival, the Nguyen Tieu Festival, the Kim Bong Carpentry Village Traditional Festival, and the Thanh Ha Pottery Ancestors’ Festival.
Hoi An will also host the International Lantern Festival as an effort to demonstrate its commitment as a member of UNESCO’s Creative Cities Network.
In the former Quang Nam area, major international events such as the First UN Tourism Conference on Tourism for Rural Development in late 2024 and the International Travel Agents Conference in early 2025 have further strengthened the region’s tourism brand.
According to the municipal Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism, a series of festivals and events will continue throughout the year, contributing to the goal of welcoming 17.3 million visitors in 2025.
Included will be the South Korean Food Festival in Hoi An from September 6 – 7, the Da Nang International Lantern Festival 2025 from October 2 - 6, the GBA Oktoberfest scheduled in October, the 21st Hoi An - Japan Cultural Exchange from December 5 - 7, and the Da Nang Christmas and New Year Festival 2026.
Mr. Tan Van Vuong, Deputy Director of the municipal Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism, emphasized that Da Nang has been prioritizing the development of MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) tourism.
In the coming time, the city will build an international convention and exhibition center with a capacity of accommodating over 10,000 people to attract more international events.