In 2026, the global tourism map officially turns its spotlight on Gia Lai - a land steeped in Central Highland legends and home to dormant volcanoes dating back millions of years. Under the inspiring theme "Gia Lai: Mountains embrace the Sea," the 2026 Visit Vietnam Year is not merely an invitation to explore the red-soil plateaus, but a journey celebrating the magical connection between majestic forests and the vast ocean.

The Allure of the "Forest-to-Sea" Connection

For the first time, a Visit Vietnam Year event emphasises profound regional connectivity. Travellers will experience a seamless transition from the lush pine forests and cascading white waterfalls of Gia Lai to the golden sands of Binh Dinh and the coastal provinces of Central Vietnam. This is your chance to savour the diverse beauty of Vietnam’s S-shaped land in a single, unforgettable trip.

Queen Beach, Quy Nhon

The Opening Ceremony: A Grand Immersive Spectacle

In just a few days, the nation’s attention will converge on Gia Lai. Do not miss this historic moment:

• Time: 20:10, 28 March 2026.
• Venue: Nguyen Tat Thanh Square, Quy Nhon Ward, Gia Lai
• Highlights: A meticulously choreographed four-chapter immersive art performance. Witness the sacred Gong Culture blending with the heroic spirit of Tay Son and the boundless beauty of the Ocean. Cutting-edge lighting, music, and performance technology will transform the Pleiku night into a dazzling paradise.

244 Events - A Year of Non-stop Celebration

As the host province, Gia Lai offers "one-of-a-kind" experiences found nowhere else:

Prestigious International & National Events:

- International Gong Festival of the Central Highlands: A grand gathering where thousands of artisans from local villages and international friends reunite to revive the heartbeat of the mountains.

- Hot Air Balloon Festival: For the first time, soar hundreds of metres above to gaze upon the Chu Dang Ya volcanic crater and Bien Ho (T’Nung Lake), the "Eyes of Pleiku", from a breathtaking perspective.

Chu Dang Ya Volcanic

K50 aka Hang En Waterfall

- International Marathon: A challenging yet mesmerising route for runners, winding through vibrant wild sunflowers and emerald-green tea hills.

Culinary Excellence & Local Heritage:

- Gia Lai Culture & Tourism Week: Held alongside the opening ceremony, this event immerses you in the world of traditional brocade weaving, basketry, and folk games.

- Culinary Festival: Your journey is incomplete without tasting the "addictive" local delicacies: Dry Pho (Two-bowl Pho), pungent Fermented Crab Noodles, leaves salad or the renowned Sun-dried Beef with Weaver Ant Salt.

Travel Tips for Your Journey

Gia Lai is at its finest in March, with crisp, chilly mornings and brilliant golden sunshine by day. This is the season when coffee blossoms blanket the hills in white, creating a romantic scene reminiscent of snow in the highlands.