Da Nang to turn My Khe beach into giant open-air stage with 500 glowing kites

The municipal Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism told reporters on Monday afternoon that the city's famous beachfront will serve as the setting for a full-scale live performance for the first time on the evening of July 23, replacing the conventional enclosed stage with the natural backdrop of the sea.

Taking advantage of waves, sea breeze, horizon and nighttime atmosphere, as well as advanced lighting and multimedia technology, the program will tell the story of the city’s culture, history and people.

According to the organizers, the stage will feature the image of a sail stretching out toward the open sea as its centerpiece, symbolizing the coastal region’s history of trade exchanges and its aspirations to venture beyond the shoreline as a land shaped by the sea.

The narrative draws inspiration from the Thu Bon River, guiding audiences through traditional craft villages, fishing communities and historic trading ports, including Trung Phuong, Dien Ban and Hoi An, before arriving at the image of modern-day Da Nang.

Nature is designed to become an integral part of the production.

The sound of crashing waves, ocean winds and the surrounding seascape will merge with music and lighting effects, creating an immersive outdoor theatrical experience unlike conventional stage performances.

Following the opening night, the city's coastline will continue to host the ‘Sea Light Gala - A Thousand Stars Touching Memories’ program from July 24 to 26, as part of the fest.

The highlight will be the simultaneous flight of nearly 500 illuminated kites, filling the night sky above Da Nang's beaches.

As the sea breeze strengthens, the glowing kites will form sweeping ribbons of moving light, creating a striking visual spectacle over the coastline.

During the event, beachfront food stalls will serve visitors with various nostalgic Vietnamese street snacks, while outdoor music performances will provide them with additional entertainment.

The Enjoy Da Nang 2026 Festival will take place from July 22 to 26 at East Sea Park, the city's tourist beaches and a series of venues across Da Nang.

Alongside the two new artistic productions, the festival will feature cultural performances, sporting events, culinary experiences and a variety of beach-themed activities.