‘Ao dai’ show transforms Da Nang’s Han River bridge into open-air runway
A vibrant ‘ao dai’ (Vietnamese traditional long gown) performance lit up the pedestrian Nguyen Van Troi Bridge in Da Nang City, central Vietnam on Sunday night, drawing crowds of locals and tourists to the closing of the Da Nang Ao Dai Festival 2026.
Held from Friday to Sunday, the festival unfolded across multiple venues in Da Nang, with the pedestrian bridge standing out as one of its most striking locations.
The outdoor runway on the bridge offered a seamless blend of traditional fashion and the shimmering nightscape of the Han River, creating a rich cultural experience.
Music and dance performances interwoven with ‘ao dai’ showcases added color to the closing night.
Design collections by Vietnamese designers, presented by models and beauty queens, brought emotional depth and visual appeal to the program.
Highlights included ‘Nhung canh chim hoa binh’ (Bird Wings of Peace) by designer Nhat Thuc and ‘Sac son Da Nang’ (Crimson Hues of Da Nang) by designer Thinh Nguyen, both of which drew strong audience attention.
The open-air setting enhanced the show’s appeal, with flowing silk garments moving in harmony with reflections on the river below.
One of the unique ‘ao dai’ designs presented at the show on the pedestrian Nguyen Van Troi Bridge in Da Nang City, central Vietnam, April 26, 2026. Photo: Thanh Nguyen / Tuoi Tre
Le Thi Thuy Nga, a visitor from central Quang Tri Province, said she was impressed by the event’s creativity and atmosphere.
Visiting Da Nang during the Hung Kings’ Commemoration Day, observed annually on the 10th day of the third lunar month and falling on April 26 this year, and ahead of the 51st anniversary of Reunification Day (April 30), Nga described the festival as a highlight of her trip.
She added that the scenic setting and engaging performances made her visit more memorable, and expressed hope to return for similar cultural events.
Beyond the runway, the festival introduced a fresh approach to promoting ‘ao dai,’ positioning it as a garment for everyday wear rather than solely a symbolic costume.
One of the most impressive ‘ao dai’ designs showcased during a performance on the pedestrian Nguyen Van Troi Bridge in Da Nang City, central Vietnam, April 26, 2026. Photo: Thanh Nguyen / Tuoi Tre
Organizers aim to develop the festival into a distinctive annual cultural event, strengthening Da Nang’s tourism appeal and attracting both domestic and international visitors.
The event also fosters pride in national heritage while providing a platform for collaboration on ‘ao dai’ among researchers, artisans, businesses, and the wider community.
Vinh Tho – Thanh Nguyen / Tuoi Tre News
Link nội dung: https://news.tuoitre.vn/ao-dai-show-transforms-da-nangs-han-river-bridge-into-open-air-runway-103260427152843565.htm