Southern folk cake fest kicks off in Vietnam’s Can Tho

Held at Binh Thuy Square, this year’s festival features more than 300 booths showcasing various folk cakes, regional OCOP (One Commune One Product) specialties, and traditional dishes.

The event will also treat fest-goers to baking competitions and performance spaces where artisans demonstrate traditional techniques and guide visitors in making local delicacies.

Participants from across the country have gathered for the festival, including representatives from Ho Chi Minh City, Hue City, Lam Dong, Tay Ninh, An Giang, Dong Thap, and Vinh Long Provinces, reflecting the event’s growing national appeal.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Nguyen Thi Ngoc Diep, vice-chairwoman of the Can Tho People’s Committee, emphasized that the festival has become an annual highlight for the city, now entering its 13th edition.

She noted that the event serves as both a cultural showcase and a major tourism draw, attracting visitors eager to explore and enjoy Vietnam’s diverse culinary traditions.

It contributes to the city’s efforts to preserve the region’s culinary heritage.

Southern folk cakes are not only a distinctive element of regional cuisine, but also play a vital role in promoting tourism in Can Tho, Diep said.

Beyond sampling a wide variety of traditional cakes, visitors are invited to take part in hands-on activities, learning how to prepare these specialties.

The interactive approach is expected to transform the festival from a simple sightseeing event into an immersive cultural experience.

By blending gastronomy with cultural engagement, the festival has established itself as a signature tourism product for Can Tho.