The highlight was the series of events titled “Festival of National Reunification – Hoai Nhon Dong Convergence,” held in Hoai Nhon Dong Ward. The centerpiece was the “Green Lo Dieu Pass Run 2026,” which attracted 374 athletes to a 5-kilometer coastal route, starting from the Historical Site of the Unnumbered Ship, traversing Lo Dieu Pass, and ending at Mui Ganh (Hoai Hai).
Duong Hoang Truc (from Quy Nhon Ward) and the Binh Dinh Runners group arrived early to participate. He shared: “The running route had many steep slopes, which were quite challenging, but the scenery was truly impressive—with sheer cliffs on one side and the pristine, peaceful blue sea on the other, as seen from above. The friendliness and enthusiasm of the local people also contributed to making this a memorable experience for us.”
The festive spirit continued with a variety of cultural and folk activities, such as traditional Bai Choi card games, folk games, the “Kites Reaching the Sea” kite-flying contest, and the “Fishermen’s Hands – Weaving the Silver Sea” net-weaving competition. In the evening, there was an acoustic music night titled “The Sea Echoes the Song of Peace” and an art program called “Lighting Up the Night Sea – Spreading Aspirations.”
To ensure smooth operations, nearly 700 youth union members were mobilized from around 5 a.m.
Actively participating in many activities, Ha Thi Ngoc Bich, Secretary of the Hoai Nhon Dong Ward Youth Union, said: “We prepared in advance with great anticipation. When the festival ran smoothly and attracted large crowds, we felt proud to contribute our youthful energy to promoting our homeland’s image.”
Additionally, many locals and tourists chose to kick off their holiday with mountain climbing. From Ho Chi Minh City, Le Hoang Kha (from Vuon Lai Ward) opted to conquer Chu Nam Mountain on the first day of the break.
According to him, this destination was recommended by friends and locals for its beautiful scenery, convenient location not far from the city center, and accessible trails.
“I plan to stay in Pleiku for about a week to experience Gia Lai’s landscapes. After a few days here, I’ve found the area offers a harmonious blend of urban space and pristine nature, especially the untouched forests—perfect for those who love exploration,” Kha shared.
Similarly, Nguyen Thi My Pho (from Tuy Phuoc Commune) and her friends donned shirts printed with the national flag for their mountain climb. She said: “We prepared these shirts both to celebrate the holiday and to create lasting memories together. Climbing on April 30 made the experience even more special—combining exercise, sightseeing, and meaningful moments to remember.”
In the western part of the province, large numbers of tourists flocked to attractions such as Bien Ho (T’Nung Lake), the centuries-old pine forest, Minh Thanh Pagoda, and Dai Doan Ket Square on the first day of the holiday.
Many visitors set out early to maximize their experience. Nguyen Thi Dao (from Kon Tum Ward) and her family spent a full day exploring Pleiku, combining sightseeing with sampling local cuisine.
“We chose Pleiku to enjoy the fresh air under the pine trees and savor the unique local dishes. Some specialties, like the two-bowl pho for breakfast or bamboo-tube rice for lunch, are best enjoyed here. Gia Lai has many excellent eateries with distinctive flavors, conveniently located near attractions. That’s why we keep coming back for the April 30 holiday,” Dao shared.
In the east of the province, destinations such as Ky Co, Eo Gio, Hon Kho, Trung Luong Beach, and Phuong Mai Sand Dunes drew throngs of visitors. Among them, Ky Co – Eo Gio (Quy Nhon Dong Ward) was a top choice for its unique beauty and open spaces.
Bui Le Quynh Chi (a tourist from Ho Chi Minh City) revealed: “My friends and I chose Ky Co - Eo Gio because of the clear blue sea, beautiful scenery, fresh seafood, and the warm hospitality of the locals, which made us feel very comfortable. Also, knowing that Gia Lai is hosting the National Tourism Year 2026, I wanted to come and experience it firsthand.”
Ahead of the major holiday, tourist attractions and businesses in Gia Lai proactively prepared both human and material resources to meet visitor demand.
At the Center for Science Discovery and Innovation (Quy Nhon Nam Ward), the facility expected to welcome 3,000–5,000 visitors per day. There is no limit on tickets for the main building, with various price options to maximize service for tourists.
In addition to maintaining signature activities (themed science exhibition rooms, planetarium screenings, and special science shows such as an introduction to the Solar System in Room 0 and the Static Electricity – High Voltage show in Room 6), the Center also launched a new science demonstration in Room 5, featuring physics and chemistry experiments for a fresh experience compared to regular days.
By organizing three science shows in three different rooms with staggered schedules, the Center aimed to meet the increased demand from visitors.
Nguyen Ngoc Hoa, Director of the Center, said: “Compared to regular days, we will increase staff, add more showtimes and film screenings throughout the day, especially during lunchtime, to fully meet visitor demand.
At the same time, we have prepared light snacks and set up a lunch area within the premises so guests can rest on-site. Additional outdoor tents have also been installed to provide cool waiting and resting spaces, easing the pressure on the main lobby.”
In western Gia Lai, dining establishments also quickly ramped up their service capacity. HNi Restaurant (Alley 302 Nguyen Van Cu, Dien Hong Ward) activated early preparation plans to accommodate the expected surge in customers.
Pham Thanh Son, the restaurant owner, said: “With the ability to serve about 1,000 guests per day, we have thoroughly prepared to meet the increased demand during the holiday. We have also designed a menu rich in Gia Lai’s local identity to introduce to visitors.”
According to Mr. Son, dishes such as clay-pot chicken, upland sticky rice, Krong Pa beef stew, and craft beers named after local landmarks like Chu Dang Ya Volcano, K50 Waterfall, and Bien Ho are especially popular with out-of-province diners for their unique flavors and strong mountain-forest character.
The first day of the April 30 holiday in Gia Lai was lively, with a diverse range of sports, tourism, and service activities. Thorough preparations and unique experiences contributed to a fulfilling journey for visitors, marking a joyful start to the holiday period.
