What is the Da Nang International Fireworks Festival?
The Da Nang International Fireworks Festival (DIFF) is an annual fireworks competition where teams from different countries present choreographed pyrotechnic displays. Set against the Han River, the event takes place over several nights, drawing large crowds who gather along the riverbanks, bridges, and rooftop venues to watch the performances.
First held in 2008, the festival has grown into a major cultural event in Da Nang, with each team given 20 minutes to showcase a fireworks performance set to music. The displays often follow specific themes, incorporating colors and effects that reflect each country’s unique style. While the fireworks are the highlight, the event also includes live music, street performances, and food stalls, creating a festive atmosphere throughout the city.
Though the Da Nang International Fireworks Festival is one of the city’s most well-known annual events, it’s important to note that it also draws large crowds and can cause traffic congestion around the Han River. If you’re planning to attend, knowing the best viewpoints and timing can make the experience much more enjoyable.
When is Da Nang International Fireworks Festival 2025?
The Da Nang International Fireworks Festival (DIFF) is traditionally held between late May and early July, spanning multiple weekends. Each year, it features several competition nights, with teams from different countries presenting their displays on Saturday evenings.
For 2025, the festival will take place from May 31 to July 12, with the theme “Da Nang – The New Rising Era”, marking the 50th anniversary of Da Nang’s liberation. This year’s event will be the longest and largest in DIFF history, featuring six fireworks nights and ten competing teams from around the world.
Da Nang International Fireworks Festival 2025 Schedule
| Date | Competing Teams |
|---|---|
| May 31, 2025 | Vietnam 1 vs. Finland |
| June 7, 2025 | Vietnam 2 vs. Poland |
| June 14, 2025 | Canada vs. China |
| June 21, 2025 | Portugal vs. UK |
| June 28, 2025 | South Korea vs. Italy |
| July 12, 2025 | Final Night (Winning teams) |
Each competition night takes place along the Han River, with teams given 20 minutes to perform a fireworks display set to music and a chosen theme. The grand finale on July 12 will see the best-performing teams return for a final showdown.
Da Nang International Fireworks Festival 2025
For 2025, the Da Nang International Fireworks Festival (DIFF) will be bigger and longer than ever, featuring six nights of fireworks displays from ten competing teams. As in previous years, the fireworks stage will be set up along the Han River, providing a picturesque backdrop for the performances. The main stage will be decorated with bell-shaped peach blossoms, a symbolic flower from Ba Na Hills, adding a distinctive visual element to this year’s setup.
Each night, two teams will compete, with 20-minute displays choreographed to music, following a theme set by the organizers. The festival will open on May 31, 2025, with a performance by Vietnam 1 and Finland, themed “Cultural Essence”. This year also marks the first time Vietnam will have two teams competing, adding an extra layer of excitement.
Where can you see the firework?
The Da Nang International Fireworks Festival (DIFF) takes place along the Han River, with the main fireworks launch site at Han River Port. This location provides clear views of the fireworks from both sides of the river, making it the central gathering point for spectators.
In addition to the fireworks, the pavement along Tran Hung Dao Street is used for artistic performances, adding to the festival atmosphere. While there are multiple ways to experience the event, including grandstand seating, free public areas, rooftop bars, and river cruises, each offers a different perspective and experience.
Buying tickets for the International Fireworks Festival in Da Nang
For those who want the best view and a guaranteed seat, tickets for DIFF 2025 will be available for purchase. The grandstand seating area will have around 5,000 seats per night, similar to previous years.
Ticket prices for DIFF 2025
| Category | Seating Zone | Price (VND) |
|---|---|---|
| Category 1 | A1 (Central) | 2,650,000 |
| Category 2 | A2 | 1,750,000 |
| Category 3 | A3, A4 | 1,350,000 |
| Category 4 | B2, B3 | 900,000 |
| Category 5 | B1, B4 | 750,000 |
- Children under 1 meter in height enter for free if seated with parents.
- Early bird discounts of up to 20% are available for advance purchases.
Where to buy tickets
Tickets can be purchased through:
- The official DIFF website (diff.vn)
- Travel agencies and tourism platforms
- Online booking systems
- The Sun Paradise Land app (offers 5% discount for online purchases)
Since ticket availability is limited, booking early is highly recommended.
Free spots to watch the Da Nang fireworks
If you prefer to watch the fireworks for free, there are several public viewing areas along the Han River:
- Tran Hung Dao Street (east side) – After the seating areas, the sidewalk along the river offers a clear, direct view.
- Bach Dang Street (west side) – Located on the city side of the river, this area is also popular but fills up quickly.
- Bridges over the Han River – The Han River Bridge, Dragon Bridge, and Tran Thi Ly Bridge offer elevated views, but they can become extremely crowded.
Since public areas get packed early, arriving at least 2–3 hours before showtime is recommended to secure a good spot.
Rooftop bars and cafes with views
For a more comfortable and less crowded way to enjoy the Da Nang International Fireworks Festival, consider watching from a rooftop bar or hotel café. Many locations along the Han River offer excellent views of the fireworks, along with food and drinks to make the experience more enjoyable. Since these venues are in high demand during the festival, advance reservations are recommended.
Recommended rooftop bars
- Brilliant Top Bar (Brilliant Hotel) – Located in the heart of Da Nang, this open-air rooftop bar provides unobstructed views of the Han River and city skyline. It has a modern, social atmosphere and serves a range of cocktails and international dishes.
- Top View Bar (Vanda Hotel) – Situated on the 19th floor, this rooftop bar offers a panoramic view of Da Nang. It’s a casual yet stylish place to watch the fireworks while enjoying drinks and a light meal.
- F29 Golden Beef & Sky Bar Restaurant – Located on the 29th floor of Wyndham Danang Golden Bay Hotel, this venue faces the Han River and the city’s main bridges, offering a direct view of the fireworks. During DIFF, they offer a special buffet menu for guests.
- SKY36 (Novotel Danang Premier Han River) – One of the highest rooftop bars in Da Nang, located on the 36th floor. With DJ performances, a lively atmosphere, and high-end cocktails, it’s a good choice for those who want a more vibrant setting.
- The Sail (Hilton Da Nang) – A rooftop lounge with relaxed seating and excellent river views, offering a comfortable and stylish way to watch the fireworks.
- Endless Summer Rooftop Bar & Lounge (Wink Hotel Danang Riverside) – A modern, casual rooftop bar with great views of the Han River and DIFF fireworks, perfect for a laid-back experience with drinks and light bites.
Since rooftop seating is limited, reservations well in advance are highly recommended.
Han River cruise
A Han River cruise is another way to experience the Da Nang Fireworks Festival while avoiding crowds on land. These cruises allow you to float along the river, enjoy a cool evening breeze, and watch the fireworks from a relaxed setting.
Many cruise boats operate as floating restaurants or bars, serving drinks and dinner during the show.
Han River Fireworks Cruise Prices:
- 400,000 – 600,000 VND per person ($16–$24 USD)
- Some luxury cruises may charge higher rates, depending on the services offered.
Cruises usually sell out quickly, so booking a few weeks in advance is recommended.
Tips for visiting the firework show in Da Nang
Attending the Da Nang International Fireworks Festival (DIFF) is a memorable experience, but with large crowds and high demand for transportation and accommodations, a little planning goes a long way. Here are some essential tips to help you make the most of the event.
Booking accommodations
Hotels in Da Nang fill up quickly during the fireworks festival, so booking well in advance is highly recommended. Staying in a hotel near the Han River or along Bach Dang Street will put you within walking distance of the event, saving you the hassle of finding transportation after the show.
If you’re staying in Hoi An, expect longer travel times due to increased traffic. Booking accommodations closer to the festival area can make your experience more convenient.
Additionally, since the event is held in the hot and humid summer months, pack light and breathable clothing, and make sure to bring a fully charged camera or phone to capture the fireworks.
Getting a taxi
After the fireworks, demand for taxis and ride-hailing services (Grab, Be) skyrockets, making it very difficult to find transportation—especially if you’re staying far from the Han River or in Hoi An.
To avoid this problem, consider:
- Hiring a private driver – If you’re staying in Hoi An, it may be worth arranging a private driver in advance. Many drivers offer a round-trip service, where they drop you off, wait at a designated spot, and take you back after the fireworks.
- Booking a taxi before the show – Some taxi companies allow pre-scheduled pickups, which can save you time after the event.
If you don’t have pre-arranged transport, be prepared for long waiting times or consider walking a few blocks away from the main event area to find a ride more easily.
Booking seats in advanced
If you plan to watch the fireworks from the grandstand seating area, booking tickets in advance is essential, as seats are limited to 5,000 per night and sell out quickly.
The same applies to rooftop bars and restaurants offering views of the fireworks—these venues tend to get fully booked weeks in advance, so reserving a table early ensures you have a comfortable and crowd-free viewing experience.
For the best experience:
- Reserve rooftop bar seating at least one month in advance, especially for popular venues.
- Book grandstand tickets early through official sales channels (diff.vn or tourism platforms).
