VIMAF 2025 is organized by the Vietnam Cultural Industry Development Association (VCIDA), coordinated by the Vietnam Institute of Arts Education (VIA Education) in collaboration with VCIDA’s Ho Chi Minh City branch for communications and events, and professionally advised by the Soul Institute of Arts (SIA).

According to the organizers, VIMAF is not merely a festival but a comprehensive journey of connection-where music, performing arts, and creative education converge with the spirit of international integration.

“We hope this festival will mark a new milestone for Vietnam’s cultural industry, opening doors for young artists to reach international standards and be heard on home ground. It also aims to become a regional meeting point where young talents from Southeast Asia can learn, collaborate, and grow together, helping position Vietnam as a new artistic destination in Asia,” said Pham Minh Toan, a representative of the organizing committee.

Musician Thanh Bui, founder of the Soul Institute of Arts and a jury member,  highlighted the festival  as an open stage for everyone. Contestants will compete in music and dance categories through live performances evaluated under specific criteria for each discipline and level. The 15 best performances will be selected to appear in the VIMAF 2025 gala night.

Applications are open from October 30 to November 30, and the festival will take place on December 12–13, with the gala night on December 13 in Ho Chi Minh City.

The judging panel includes prominent artists, educators, and international experts such as Thanh Bui, Adam Gyorgy, Nicholas Keyworth, Dr. Alexander Tu, Sabra Elise Johnson, Do Hai Anh, Bui Trieu Yen, and Meritorious Artist Pham Khanh Ngoc.

In addition to music and dance competitions, VIMAF 2025 will feature a series of experiential activities, including workshops with international artists, cultural exchanges, and contemporary art showcases, offering participants the chance to explore the vibrant culture of Ho Chi Minh City.

Ho Chi Minh City International Music Festival opens

The Ho Chi Minh City International Music Festival, known as HOZO, opened on December 22 at Nguyen Hue pedestrian street in Ho Chi Minh City’s District 1.