Ninh Kieu wharf in Can Tho city’s Ninh Kieu district at night 

The highlight of the festival will be a contest called “Hoa đăng Ninh Kiều hội tụ và tỏa sáng” (Ninh Kieu lanterns shine brightly together) with the participation of travel associations and businesses.

Nearly 40 lanterns made by leading local artisans are being displayed along Khai Luong canal while many main streets of the city are decorated with colourful flowers and lights.

There are also displays of fresh vegetables and Ninh Kieu’s traditional dishes; an exhibition entitled “Ninh Kieu - Can Tho, old and new” featuring calligraphy, paintings, photographs and portraits; don ca tai tu (Southern folk music) performed on a river; a Vietnamese boat race; and other traditional games.

Le Van Tam, Vice Chairman of the municipal People’s Committee, said the event, which takes place at the same time with the APEC meetings, offers a good chance for the city to introduce its culture and people to international visitors.
 
The three-day festival is co-organised by the municipal Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism and the Ninh Kieu district People’s Committee.