Lion-Dragon-Unicorn Dance Festival returns to create vibrant night highlight along the Han River
DNO - Da Nang is set to bring back one of its most colourful cultural attractions as the Lion-Dragon-Unicorn Dance Festival returns to the Bach Dang pedestrian street by the Han River at the end of June, adding fresh energy to the city’s expanding summer night-time economy.
Scheduled to run from June 30 to July 4 at the semi-circular square along Bach Dang Street in Hoa Cuong Ward, Da Nang, the expanded 2026 competition is expected to become an annual cultural fixture, reinforcing Da Nang’s strategy of developing signature riverfront events that blend tradition with tourism.
The festival features competitive performances of lion and dragon dance troupes from across Vietnam, showcasing spectacular disciplines such as “Dia Bu” and “Mai Hoa Thung”, high-skill routines performed on elevated poles.
Alongside competition, the event serves as a cultural bridge, preserving and promoting a traditional performing art deeply rooted in Vietnamese identity, while also appealing to younger and international audiences.
Having successfully attracted large crowds in its 2023 and 2024 editions, the festival returns after a one-year hiatus with renewed expectations.
Authorities say its revival will help strengthen Da Nang’s night-time tourism ecosystem, complementing flagship events such as the Da Nang International Fireworks Festival (DIFF) 2026 and coastal entertainment programmes.
A key highlight of this year’s edition is its expanded visitor experience zone.
Alongside performances, the riverside space will feature food stalls, OCOP specialty booths, souvenir markets, and interactive cultural activities such as mini lion-head painting, traditional mask drawing, and community exchange programmes. The aim is to transform the event from a stage performance into a fully immersive cultural festival.
According to city organizers, comprehensive plans are in place to ensure safety and smooth operations, including security management, traffic control, fire prevention, emergency response, and medical support throughout the event.
Athletes participating in high-difficulty performances will be required to meet strict health and insurance standards to ensure safety during competition.
As Da Nang continues to expand its portfolio of night-time attractions, the return of the Lion-Dragon-Unicorn Dance Festival is expected to become a new cultural landmark along the Han River, one that not only entertains but also reinforces the city’s identity as a dynamic, welcoming and culturally rich destination.