HCMC – HCMC has opened the 2026 Lunar New Year book street festival on Le Loi Boulevard, featuring around 80 activities that combine technology, cultural displays, and interactive experiences.
The festival spans more than 13,600 square meters and takes place simultaneously at three locations: Le Loi Street in Saigon Ward, City Park in Binh Duong Ward, and the Revolutionary Tradition House in Vung Tau Ward.
The festival includes a wide range of activities, such as artistic light shows, book gifting programs, and “book ATM” initiatives that provide free books to readers. Organizers have also prepared promotional offers for visitors and implemented safety and hygiene measures throughout the event.
One featured area is the Ho Chi Minh Cultural Space, themed “The Bamboo Forest Tells Stories.” The display uses bamboo as a central symbol and combines historical materials, books, and modern projection technology to enhance visitor engagement. Rare and unique book editions are also on display.
Another section, the Book and Integration Space, showcases works nominated for the 2025 National Book Awards and introduces AI- and AR-based applications designed to modernize the reading experience.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Tran The Thuan, director of the city’s Department of Culture and Sports, said HCMC considers reading culture development a key priority in building a well-rounded population.
The festival aims to promote reading habits, encourage lifelong learning, and contribute to improving residents’ cultural life while supporting sustainable development.
At the central stage, eight talk sessions with authors and researchers will explore reading culture and literary topics. The event also introduces traditional bookbinding techniques and public engagement with the international CODEX Book Art Fair.
The festival runs from February 15 to February 22, corresponding to the 28th day of the last lunar month through the sixth day of the Lunar New Year holiday.
