The Can Tho River Culture Festival is one of the most distinctive cultural events in Vietnam’s Mekong Delta, celebrating the deep connection between local communities and the river that shapes their daily life. Designed to honor the heritage of river-based culture, the festival highlights traditional crafts, music, floating markets, water sports, and nighttime performances that illuminate the Hau River. Over the past few years, this event has quickly gained strong international attention thanks to its visually impressive boat parades, vibrant atmosphere, and its ability to showcase both modern creativity and historical identity in a single immersive experience.
We will guide you through everything you need to know before attending the Can Tho River Culture Festival, including what to expect, when and where it takes place, its top highlights, essential travel tips, estimated expenses, and suggested tours that complement the event. Whether you’re planning your first visit or returning to explore new activities, this guide will help you make the most of the festival. Let’s explore the Can Tho River Culture Festival 2026 together with IDC Travel.
Why Should You Experience the Can Tho River Culture Festival?
Experiencing the Can Tho River Culture Festival offers a rare opportunity to witness the cultural identity of the Mekong Delta in its most vibrant form. This region has long been shaped by its waterways, and the festival brings that heritage to life through performances, river parades, traditional music, and community activities. For travelers seeking an authentic cultural journey rather than a purely sightseeing trip, the event provides a meaningful way to connect with local life, traditions, and the rhythms of the river.
As one of the largest year-end celebrations in southern Vietnam, the festival also delivers an atmosphere filled with energy and excitement. Many of its standout activities, including boat parades and public performances along the Hau River, are completely free, making it accessible to a wide range of visitors. The event’s visual appeal is another major draw: illuminated boats, fireworks, drone shows, and open-air stages create countless opportunities for photography and videography. Whether you are traveling with family, discovering Vietnam as a couple, or exploring with friends, the Can Tho River Culture Festival offers a balanced mix of culture, entertainment, and scenic beauty suitable for all types of travelers.
When and Where the Can Tho River Culture Festival Takes Place
Festival Dates and Best Time to Visit
The Can Tho River Culture Festival 2026 takes place from 27th December 2025 to 1st January 2026. This timing falls at the beginning of the dry season in the Mekong Delta, which means lower rainfall, cooler evenings, and ideal conditions for outdoor events along the Hau River. Travelers visiting during this period can expect clear skies and comfortable temperatures, allowing them to enjoy the festival from day to night.
Visiting during the festival period offers many advantages, including a lively atmosphere and access to a full lineup of performances. The only downside is the increase in visitors, especially around major attractions and riverfront areas. Because of this, booking accommodation and transportation early is recommended. The event often includes an opening ceremony, a large boat parade, nightly art performances, drone or light shows, water sports competitions, and a closing program spread across several days. Exact schedules may vary each year, so checking the updated program before traveling is important.
Main Locations of the Festival in Can Tho
The Can Tho River Culture Festival is primarily held around the riverside areas of the city, making it easy for visitors to move between different stages and activities. Ninh Kieu Wharf serves as the central hub of the event. It is where many performances, riverside exhibitions, and viewing points for the boat parade take place. This area also offers quick access to hotels, restaurants, walking streets, and boats heading to popular attractions.
Hau Riverside Park in the Cai Khe neighborhood is another key venue. With its wide open spaces and direct river views, the park hosts cultural showcases, street performances, and environmental activities throughout the festival. In addition, several downtown streets connect the major venues, turning the city center into a continuous festival route with food stalls, craft booths, and public entertainment. Before attending, visitors should look for the official festival map, which helps identify routes, stages, and recommended spots for watching performances along the river.
Key Highlights of the Can Tho River Culture Festival
The Can Tho River Culture Festival brings together some of the most iconic cultural, artistic, and river-based activities of the Mekong Delta. Each program is designed to showcase the spirit of life along the Hau River, making the event both visually impressive and culturally meaningful. Below are the standout highlights visitors can expect.
Experience the vibrant traditions of the Mekong Delta by exploring the key activities at the Can Tho River Culture Festival.
- Boat Parade on the Hau River: The boat parade is the signature activity of the festival. Dozens of boats are decorated with lights, cultural symbols, and regional themes, creating a captivating scene on the river. Visitors can watch the parade from Ninh Kieu Wharf or riverside parks, where the reflections of lights on the water add to the experience. It is one of the most photographed moments of the event.
- Floating Stages and Night Performances: Floating stages are set up along the river to host cultural showcases, live music, contemporary performances, and artistic presentations. These shows combine traditional elements with modern creativity, giving visitors a comprehensive view of the region’s cultural evolution. The nighttime setting enhances the atmosphere, especially during major performance nights.
- Drone Show, Light Shows, and Fireworks: In recent years, the festival has introduced modern entertainment elements such as drone displays, synchronized light shows, and fireworks. These programs usually take place during the opening and closing ceremonies. The combination of technology and river scenery creates a unique visual experience for visitors.
- Street Performances and Traditional Arts: Throughout the festival, central streets and riverside areas host street art, folk dances, traditional instrument showcases, and performances of “Don ca tai tu”, a music genre recognized by UNESCO. These activities help visitors understand the artistic heritage of the Mekong Delta and offer many spontaneous moments for cultural interaction.
- Photo Exhibitions and Scenic Check In Zones: Several zones are dedicated to cultural exhibitions, including photography displays that highlight river life, iconic landmarks, and community stories. These areas also serve as scenic check-in spots with themed decorations and river views, making them popular for travelers looking to capture memorable images.
- Food Village and OCOP Product Stalls: The food village introduces visitors to Mekong Delta cuisine, with dishes prepared by local vendors using traditional recipes. OCOP stalls showcase regional specialties, handmade crafts, and agricultural products from surrounding provinces. This is an excellent opportunity to sample authentic foods and bring home local flavors.
- Water Sports and River Competitions: Water activities such as stand up paddle races, traditional rowing competitions, and community sports are also included in the program. These activities highlight the region’s active river culture and provide lively entertainment for visitors throughout the day.
- Cultural and Environmental Experience Zones: Some sections of the festival focus on cultural education and environmental awareness. These zones may include workshops, cultural demonstrations, and exhibitions related to river conservation. They are designed to give visitors deeper insight into how local communities maintain their connection with the river ecosystem.
Detailed Program Information for the Can Tho River Culture Festival
Tickets and Entry
- Entry tickets: Most festival areas are free, including riverside performances, cultural exhibitions, and community activities.
- Paid zones: Some areas may charge fees, such as the food village, special experience services, themed exhibition models, or river tours.
- Booking tips: It is recommended to pre-book river cruises, dining experiences on boats, or VIP seating near stages, as these can sell out quickly during peak hours.
Festival Schedule
- Opening day: Usually held in the afternoon or evening at Ninh Kieu Wharf, featuring the opening ceremony with cultural performances.
- Art performances: Evening shows run throughout the festival, often featuring different cultural themes each day.
- Water sports and competitions: Typically in the morning, including boat races, traditional water activities, and skill demonstrations.
- Closing day: The final evening often includes fireworks or drone displays over the Hau River (depending on the year).
- Peak hours: Most crowded between 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM; arriving early is recommended for the best viewing spots during the boat parade or performances.
Estimated Costs for Attending the Can Tho River Culture Festival
Understanding the expected expenses can help you plan your trip to the Can Tho River Culture Festival more comfortably. Most festival activities are free, but you should still budget for food, transport, accommodation, and optional experiences. Below is a simple cost breakdown to give you a quick idea of what to prepare.
| Category | Estimated Cost (USD) | Note |
| Accommodation | $25 – 70 | Depends on location and room type |
| Local Transportation | $5 – 15 | Grab, taxis, or motorbike rental |
| Meals & Drinks | $10 – 25 | Varies between local eateries and restaurants |
| Festival Activities & Tickets | Free – $15 | Most activities are free |
| Boat Tours | $8 – 20 | Price varies by route and duration |
| Souvenirs & Local Products | $5 – 20 | From floating markets or festival stalls |
Note: Prices may vary depending on the year, festival version, or personal preferences. Always check updated rates before planning your visit.
Suggested Tour for First-Time Visitors to Southern Vietnam
Explore the heart of the Mekong Delta in just two days, from bustling floating markets to serene fruit orchards, and experience the authentic river life of Southern Vietnam.
Itinerary in Brief of 2-day Tour
DAY 1: Ho Chi Minh City – My Tho – Ben Tre – Can Tho
- Start from Ho Chi Minh City and depart towards My Tho.
- After seeing Vinh Trang Pagoda, take a boat trip down the river to see the stilt dwellings and fruit gardens.
- Proceed to Tortoise Island for lunch at a local eatery.
- Take a boat trip among the water coconut trees to visit a family company that embodies the picturesque rural lifestyle.
- Then, while listening to traditional music, enjoy the seasonal delectable fruits and honey tea.
- Ride a rowboat through the streams.
- Proceed to Can Tho after a wonderful walk through the fruit orchard and hamlet.
- Have supper (at your own own) and spend the night at the hotel you’ve chosen in Can Tho.
DAY 2: Explore Cai Rang Floating Market – Ho Chi Minh City
- Take an early morning boat ride to the Cai Rang Floating Market, a wholesale fruit and vegetable market at its busiest time of day.
- Continue sailing along the little canal system to a rice noodle-making town. Lunch will be served.
- Get back to Ho Chi Minh City. Overnight stay at a hotel.
>>> View full detail in Tour My Tho – Ben Tre – Can Tho 2 Days
Embark on a 5-day journey through the Mekong Delta, discovering vibrant floating markets, charming villages, lush orchards, and cultural gems along the waterways of Southern Vietnam.
Itinerary in Brief of 5-day Tour
Day 1: Ho Chi Minh City – Ben Tre
Transfer to Ben Tre, take a river boat to local villages, taste fruits, bike through coconut and rice fields, and enjoy lunch. Explore small canals and join the host family to prepare dinner.
Day 2: Ben Tre – Cai Be – Can Tho
Have breakfast with the host, then head to Cai Be with stops at Dong Tam Snake Farm and Cao Dai Temple. Visit Cai Be Floating Market, canals, fruit orchards, and Phu Chau Ancient Pagoda. Enjoy lunch with elephant ear fish. Continue to Binh Hoa Phuoc for local markets and workshops before reaching Can Tho for overnight stay.
Day 3: Can Tho – Long Xuyen
Visit Cai Rang Floating Market, cruise small canals, and explore a fruit garden or riverside nursery. After lunch, travel to Long Xuyen with visits to Binh Thuy Ancient House, Bang Lang Stork Sanctuary, a fishing net factory, and a crocodile farm.
Day 4: Long Xuyen – Chau Doc
Explore Long Xuyen Floating Market and Cu Lao Ong Ho Island by foot or bike. Transfer to Chau Doc to see the market, floating fish village, Cham village, and Tra Su Cajuput Forest. Visit Sam Mountain’s temples and enjoy the sunset.
Day 5: Chau Doc – Sa Dec – Ho Chi Minh City
Return to Saigon via Sa Dec, visiting Kien An Cung Pagoda, Huynh Thuy Le’s house, and the local market. Arrive in Saigon in the late afternoon.
>>> View full detail in Ho Chi Minh City & Mekong Delta 5 Days Experience
Immerse yourself in 9 unforgettable days exploring Southern Vietnam and Phu Quoc, from historic Cu Chi tunnels and lively floating markets to pristine beaches and tranquil island life.
Itinerary in Brief of 9-day Tour
Itinerary in Brief of 9-day TourDay 1: Ho Chi Minh City
Arrive at Tan Son Nhat Airport, meet your guide, transfer to the hotel, and enjoy free time to explore the city.
Day 2: Ho Chi Minh City – Cao Dai Temple – Cu Chi Tunnels
Visit colorful Cao Dai Holy See in Tay Ninh, enjoy lunch, then explore the historic Cu Chi Tunnels before returning to Saigon in the late afternoon.
Day 3: Ho Chi Minh City – My Tho – Can Tho
Transfer to My Tho, visit Vinh Trang Pagoda, cruise to Unicorn Island, taste honey tea, explore villages, coconut workshops, and orchards.
Day 4: Can Tho – Cai Rang Floating Market
Take an early boat to Cai Rang Floating Market, visit noodle and rice paper workshops, and learn about rice processing. Return to Can Tho for lunch and free time.
Day 5: Can Tho – Flight to Phu Quoc
Enjoy free time, then transfer to the airport for your flight to Phu Quoc.
Day 6–8: Phu Quoc
Relax with three full free days to enjoy the beach and the island at your own pace.
Day 9: Phu Quoc – Ho Chi Minh City – Departure
Have breakfast and free time before flying back to Ho Chi Minh City for your onward departure. End of trip.
>>> View full detail in Southern Vietnam 9 Days Sightseeing and Beach Relaxation
Essential Tips to the Can Tho River Culture Festival
Visiting the Can Tho River Culture Festival for the first time can be an unforgettable experience, but planning ahead ensures you make the most of your trip. Here are some practical tips for first-time visitors:
- Transportation options: Most visitors travel by taxi, Grab, or motorbike to reach the festival areas. Walking is also convenient if staying near Ninh Kieu Wharf or Hau Riverside Park. Traffic can be heavy during peak hours, so plan your route in advance.
- Best arrival times: The festival is busiest in the evenings between 6:00 PM and 9:00 PM, especially for the boat parade and night performances. Arriving early allows you to secure a good viewing spot and explore nearby attractions before the crowds.
- What to bring: Pack essentials such as drinking water, a light jacket for cool evening breezes, sunscreen for daytime activities, and a fully charged power bank for your phone or camera.
- Personal belongings: Keep valuables secure, especially in crowded areas. Consider using a small crossbody bag or backpack with zippers to prevent theft.
- Weather considerations: The festival occurs during the dry season (late December to early January). Expect cool evenings and occasional breezes near the river. Light clothing layered with a jacket is recommended.
- Other useful tips: Wear comfortable shoes for walking along riverfront paths and festival areas. Bring cash in small denominations for food stalls or souvenirs, as some vendors may not accept cards. Check official festival maps for stage locations, food zones, and viewing points to optimize your visit. Consider combining your festival visit with nearby attractions such as Cai Rang Floating Market or Ong Pagoda for a richer cultural experience.
Following these tips will help you enjoy the Can Tho River Culture Festival safely and fully, whether you are attending alone, with family, or with friends.
The Can Tho River Culture Festival is a unique celebration of the Mekong Delta’s river life, combining cultural heritage, spectacular river parades, traditional performances, modern light shows, and local cuisine. From floating markets and folk music to riverside cafes and photography opportunities, the festival offers a complete experience for travelers of all ages and interests. Whether you are visiting with family, friends, or as a couple, the event provides a memorable way to connect with the local culture and the vibrant riverside community.
If you are planning a trip to Vietnam and want to experience this one-of-a-kind festival, IDC Travel can help you organize your visit, suggest the best accommodations, and provide guided tours to make your experience seamless and unforgettable. Don’t miss the chance to witness the magic of the Can Tho River Culture Festival firsthand, reach out to us.
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