Under the theme “Golden Threads – Weaving Aspirations”, the festival’s main events are taking place from March 6 to 8 at the President Ho Chi Minh Statue Park area, along Nguyen Hue Walking Street and other venues across the city.

The festival features 17 main activities, showcasing nearly 400 Áo dài collections, with the participation of more than 600 models and performers as well as 37 ambassadors from different fields.

A highlight of this year’s event is the participation of 36 fashion designers from across Vietnam, along with international designers. Notably, a designer from Japan is joining the festival for the first time.

The participation of international designers reflects the growing global appeal of Áo dài, and the increasing international profile of the city’s annual festival.

According to Le Truong Hien Hoa, deputy director of the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Tourism, the festival aims to further promote Ho Chi Minh City as a cultural and tourism destination while celebrating the cultural value of Áo dài.

Following the opening ceremony, a number of highlight activities will take place, including a large-scale folk dance performance and Áo dài parade on the morning of March 8.

The event is expected to attract around 50,000 participants across the city, with about 3,000 people gathering at Nguyen Hue Walking Street, creating a vibrant visual celebration of Vietnam’s traditional costume.

In addition, an exhibition space known as “Áo Dài Road” will be set up along Nguyen Hue Walking Street and nearby venues, offering visitors opportunities to try on Áo dài, take photos and learn about the history and evolution of the traditional attire.

Beyond a traditional costume, Áo dài has long been regarded as a cultural symbol of Vietnam, representing elegance, grace and national identity. Over the years, the timeless attire has continued to evolve through creative designs while preserving its distinctive silhouette. Events such as the Ho Chi Minh City Áo dài Festival not only celebrate this heritage but also help introduce the beauty of Vietnamese culture to international audiences, inspiring pride among Vietnamese people and appreciation from visitors around the world.

March shines with elegance of “Ao dai”

Every March, from bustling cities to quiet villages, the graceful colours of “Ao dai” (traditional Vietnamese long dress) return to streets, offices and schools across the country as part of the annual “Ao dai Week” launched by the Vietnam Women's Union ahead of International Women's Day on March 8.