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Monday, March 31, 2025

Vietnam’s regional flavors, folk traditions take center stage at HCMC Food Festival

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By Ngoc Khuyen - Dat Thanh
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HCMC – The Saigontourist Group Food and Culture Festival commenced on March 27 at Van Thanh Tourist Area in HCMC, spotlighting Vietnam’s rich heritage through regional dishes and traditional activities.

Running until March 30, the four-day event features a diverse array of cuisine from 4- and 5-star hotels, resorts, and restaurants under the Saigontourist Group umbrella, representing regions across Vietnam.

The festival offers a platform to promote Vietnam’s culinary heritage and tourism, introducing both locals and international visitors to the country’s rich gastronomic culture with over 600 delicacies from across the country.

A vibrant floating market scene is recreated at the 2025 Saigontourist Group Food and Culture Festival, showcasing the bustling atmosphere of the Mekong Delta with boats carrying fresh produce and traditional crafts – PHOTOS: NGOC KHUYEN – DAT THANH

Beyond the culinary offerings, the festival brings together cultural performances and traditional activities from various regions. Visitors can enjoy bai choi, a type of folk art in central Vietnam, and witness water puppet shows that tell stories of rural life through captivating performances.

This year’s festival also includes a series of culinary competitions, such as the “Top 10 Signature Dishes,” “Top 10 Regional Specialties,” and “Top 10 Must-Try Beverages.” Participants are judged based on taste, presentation, and authenticity.

Visitors can immerse themselves further in Vietnam’s cultural heritage through folk games and interactive activities.

According to Pham Huy Binh, chairman of Saigontourist Group, the festival aims to celebrate Vietnam’s culinary excellence and promote the nation’s rich food culture to both domestic and international audiences.

First held in 2022, the annual event has grown significantly, earning awards as one of Asia’s and the world’s most remarkable festivals.

A highlight of the festival is the recreated floating market, where vendors on boats offer authentic southern delicacies, evoking the lively atmosphere of the Mekong Delta
A vivid re-enactment of a Mekong Delta floating market features boats laden with local produce
A woman poses for a photo with the floating market in the background
Bowls of Ben Co rice noodle soup are served from a boat, reflecting the Mekong Delta’s floating market culture. Named after Ben Co Hamlet in Tra Vinh Province, this dish is one of the well-known versions of the many rice noodle soups in southern Vietnam
Vendors display vacuum-packed regional specialties
Chefs carve a whole roasted pig to introduce visitors to a signature Vietnamese dish at the Saigontourist Group Food and Culture Festival
Artists perform Bai Choi, a beloved folk singing form from central Vietnam
Guests can also explore a traditional bamboo weaving craft village, demonstrating the intricate artistry of northern artisans
A water puppet show delights festival-goers with its vibrant storytelling

Visitors dine outdoors under festive lights, sampling an array of regional dishes in a lively, communal atmosphere

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