Home » TRAVEL EVENT NEWS » Ho Chi Minh City River Festival Shines at the International Business Awards 2025, Boosting Tourism and Cultural Pride in Vietnam Published on
September 29, 2025Ho Chi Minh City’s River Festival has achieved remarkable recognition on the global stage, clinching two prestigious Gold Awards at the 22nd International Business Awards (IBA) 2025. This achievement underscores the city’s commitment to cultural excellence and positions it as a premier destination for travelers seeking rich cultural experiences. By receiving these Gold Awards, the festival not only earned international recognition but also played a pivotal role in boosting tourism. The city’s allure as a dynamic destination for cultural tourism is poised to grow, with travelers seeking out Ho Chi Minh City for its blend of historical depth and forward-thinking creativity.The integration of state-of-the-art technology, including stunning visual effects and interactive projections, elevated the performances, making them both visually striking and emotionally resonant. The musical and theatrical performances, performed by nearly 1,000 artists, emphasized the deep cultural pride of the people of Ho Chi Minh City and Vietnam as a whole.Advertisement A Dual Triumph in International RecognitionThe festival’s remarkable success in winning two prestigious Gold Awards at the IBA 2025 further solidifies Ho Chi Minh City’s position on the global cultural map. ‘The Legendary Ship,’ which served as the highlight of the event, captivated audiences with its immersive storytelling. By blending traditional Vietnamese folklore with modern performance techniques, the show offered an unforgettable experience. The festival showcased not only Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage but also its evolving contemporary art scene, creating a bridge between the past and present.This fusion of culture, innovation, and technology in ‘The Legendary Ship’ encapsulated the essence of the festival and its goal to push the boundaries of cultural expression. The centerpiece of the festival, ‘The Legendary Ship,’ was a five-chapter musical extravaganza that brought together nearly 1,000 performers. This grand production seamlessly integrated folk arts, music, dance, lighting, cinema, and modern technology, captivating audiences and leaving a lasting impression.Upcoming Festival: ‘Timeless Bridge’The third edition of the Ho Chi Minh City River Festival, set to run from November 29 to December 31, 2025, promises to be an even more ambitious celebration of culture and innovation. Building on the success of previous festivals, this year’s event will introduce ‘Timeless Bridge,’ a grand opening show that pushes the boundaries of performance art. Combining live musical theatre with film, music, dance, circus, and magic, ‘Timeless Bridge’ will take audiences on a journey through a futuristic world inspired by science fiction.The show will incorporate cutting-edge performance technologies, including augmented reality, 3D projections, and interactive elements that will imm …
