Few dishes capture the heart of Vietnam like banh mi. This crispy, flavorful sandwich—stuffed with pate, pickled carrots, fresh herbs, and meats—has won over foodies worldwide. The Banh mi Festival in Ho Chi Minh City is an annual event that offers a feast of flavors and culture. If you’re a foodie or a curious explorer, this festival is your ticket to experiencing Vietnam’s vibrant soul. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your trip and savor the magic of Vietnamese banh mi.
What is the Banh Mi Festival?
The Banh mi Festival is a ceremony to Vietnam’s most iconic food. Typically hosted at Le Van Tam Park in District 1, this event transforms the city into a playground for food lovers. More than a chance to eat, it’s a celebration of banh mi’s journey from humble street stalls to international fame.
Rows of stalls showcasing regional varieties of banh mi. You’ll find chefs sharing their banh mi stories, which blends French colonial influences with Vietnamese ingenuity. Visitors can taste, learn, and soak in the vibes of this culinary event.
Disposition booth at the 2nd Banh mi Festival, 2024.
What to Expect at the Banh mi Festival
The Banh mi Festival is a sensory overload in the best way possible. Here’s what you can look forward to:
- Culinary Delights: Dive into a world of banh mi varieties—classic pork and pate, grilled chicken, alongside new takes like seafood or vegetarian options. Vendors often set up live cooking stations, so you can watch how they are made. Don’t miss the chance to sip Vietnamese coffee alongside your banh mi—a classic combo in Vietnam.
- Cultural Vibes: Beyond the food, expect music performances, traditional dances, and storytelling sessions about banh mi’s evolution. A special seminar, “Vietnamese Banh Mi in World Tourism and Cuisine,” will explore its global rise, while exhibitions showcase its journey through time.
- Interactive Experiences: Some stalls let you try assembling your own banh mi, while others host mini-contests or tastings to crown the day’s best creation.
The aroma of toasted bread and brewing coffee filling the air at Le Van Tam Park will pull you right into Vietnam’s street food scene. It’s a family-friendly affair, so bring your loved ones and enjoy this unique festive atmosphere.
A banh mi disposition stall
The 3rd Banh mi Festival in 2025
The 3rd Banh Mi Festival builds on the success of its predecessors in 2023 and 2024. This year’s event carries the theme “Giòn ngon bánh mì – Đậm vị cà phê” (Crispy Banh Mi, Bold Coffee), spotlighting the irresistible pairing. What started as a local tribute to a street food staple has grown into a major draw, blending tradition with innovation.
The festival will expand in scale with 150 – 180 booths, expected to attract more than 150,000 visitors. Hosted by the Ho Chi Minh City Tourism Association, the 3rd time Festival will set a record of 100 bread dishes made from seafood ingredients, displayed on a boat symbolizing the journey of Vietnamese bread. With free entry and a central location, it’s an accessible, unmissable event for travelers and locals alike.
Why Ho Chi Minh City is the Perfect Host
Ho Chi Minh City is more than just a backdrop for the festival—it’s the beating heart of Vietnam’s street food scene. Known for its chaotic charm, this city blends old-world colonial architecture with neon-lit skyscrapers, creating a vibe that’s uniquely its own. Food culture thrives in its markets, alleyways, and roadside stalls, making Ho Chi Minh City the ideal stage for a culinary festival.
You can find such banh mi stall anywhere on the streets of Ho Chi Minh City.
Travel tips for the Banh mi Festival 2025
Ready to pack your bags? Here’s how to make the most of your visit to the Banh mi Festival:
Visit Ho Chi Minh City and beyond
The 3rd Banh Mi Festival will take place from March 21 to 24, 2025. During this time the temperatures hover between 28-32°C—perfect for wandering the festival and exploring the city. While you’re in town, don’t miss these highlights:
- Ben Thanh Market: Sample more street eats and shop for souvenirs.
- Notre-Dame Cathedral and Saigon Post Office: Snap photos of colonial gems.
- Cu Chi Tunnels: Take a day trip to this historic site just outside the city.
Ho Chi Minh City’s central location also makes it a gateway to other Vietnamese treasures, like the lush Mekong Delta or the cool highlands of Da Lat. Pairing the festival with a broader Vietnam adventure is a great idea.
Where to stay
Base yourself in District 1 or District 3 for easy festival access. Budget hostels start at $5-10/night, mid-range hotels run $30-50, and luxury spots offer upscale comfort near the action.
Explore Banh mi Festival during your trip to Vietnam
The Banh mi Festival in Ho Chi Minh City is more than a food event—it’s a celebration of Vietnam’s creativity, resilience, and love for good eats. From the crunch of a fresh baguette to the melodies of street performers, it’s an experience that captures the spirit of Ho Chi Minh City in every bite. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, this festival offers a tasty reason to explore one of Southeast Asia’s most dynamic cities. Add the Banh Mi Festival to your travel list, and let Ho Chi Minh City show you why Vietnam’s street food reigns supreme.
