Published on
March 17, 2026
Image generated with Ai
The heart of Vietnam’s Central Highlands is gearing up for a cultural watershed moment as Gia Lai takes centre stage for National Tourism Year 2026. This prestigious annual designation is expected to be launched with an unprecedented spectacle that combines deep-rooted ethnic traditions with the pulse of modern pop culture. On the evening of March 28, the expansive Nguyen Tat Thanh Square will be transformed into a multi-sensory stage that will bring the region’s past, present, and future together.
A Grand Artistic Vision in Four Chapters
The commencement of the National Tourism Year is designed as a sophisticated narrative journey rather than a mere concert. A structural framework of four distinct artistic chapters has been developed by the provincial Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism to guide the audience through the multifaceted identity of the region. Through the integration of choreography, theatrical storytelling, and cutting-edge visual effects, the profound cultural and historical heritage of Gia Lai will be illuminated.
In the initial segments, the spiritual essence of the Central Highlands is to be evoked. The world-renowned Space of Gong Culture—recognized by UNESCO—will be placed at the forefront of the performance. The powerful imagery of ancient forests and rugged mountain peaks is intended to symbolize both the origins of life and the contemporary aspirations for socio-economic development. These scenes are being crafted to remind visitors that Gia Lai is not merely a destination but a living repository of Vietnam’s ancestral soul.
Honoring Heroic Legacies and Literary Giants
The narrative scope of the ceremony is further expanded to include the martial and intellectual history of the land. The heroic legacy of the Tay Son era is scheduled to be portrayed through dynamic, high-energy stage sequences. These performances are designed to celebrate the region’s historic traditions of resilience and independence, ensuring that the legendary spirits of the past are felt by the modern spectator.
As the production transitions, a shift in tone from the rugged highlands to the serene coastal regions of Vietnam is planned. A more poetic and romantic atmosphere will be cultivated on stage, drawing inspiration from the “Binh Dinh Four Pillars” of poetry. The cultural legacy of legendary poets such as Han Mac Tu, Che Lan Vien, Quach Tan, and Yen Lan is to be honoured through evocative set designs. By bridging the gap between the red soil of the plateau and the salt of the sea, the performance emphasizes the interconnectedness of Vietnam’s diverse landscapes.
An Immersive Coastal Transformation in the Highlands
In a feat of modern stagecraft, the outdoor performance space at Nguyen Tat Thanh Square will be visually transformed into an oceanic paradise. Intricate recreations of marine life, including jellyfish and vibrant coral reefs, are being prepared to provide a tranquil contrast to the earlier mountain-themed segments. This juxtaposition is intended to showcase the vastness of Vietnam’s tourism potential, suggesting that the journey through Gia Lai is part of a larger, national tapestry of exploration.
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The Midnight Mega Concert: A Modern Cultural Phenomenon
The solemnity of the cultural showcase is expected to give way to a surge of modern energy after 9:30 p.m. A mega concert, specifically curated for the younger generation, will be launched to conclude the festivities. This portion of the evening is being headlined by a “who’s who” of contemporary Vietnamese music, many of whom rose to prominence through popular television reality programmes.
The stage will be graced by a lineup of chart-topping performers, including Isaac, HIEUTHUHAI, HURRYKNG, and Anh Tu. Additionally, the talents of Pham Anh Duy, Tez, Mason Nguyen, Son.K, Lamoon, Bui Truong Linh, CONGB, and Juky San are set to be showcased. These artists are widely recognized for their energetic live presence and are expected to draw a massive influx of domestic travellers to the province. Their participation is viewed by organizers as a vital bridge between traditional heritage and the lifestyle of the Gen Z and Millennial traveller segments.
Anticipation and the Spark of Celebration
As the event approaches, the local authorities are finalising the details for a grand fireworks display. The pyrotechnics are expected to serve as a triumphant finale to the opening night, signalling the official start of a year-long schedule of events. By combining the resonant boom of the Gongs with the rhythmic bass of modern rap and pop, Gia Lai is positioning itself as a destination that honours its heritage while boldly embracing the future.
This opening ceremony is more than just an event; it is being promoted as a clear statement of Gia Lai’s willingness to welcome the world. Travellers planning to visit the Central Highlands in March are encouraged to see this fusion of art and energy, which promises to be a highlight of the 2026 tourism season.
