The festival themed “Essence of the Highlands - Sea convergence”, running from August 29 to September 2, will highlight the cultural traditions of the two regions under the theme “Aspiration for the blue sea - the great Highlands shine.”
Fireworks and cultural performances
The festival opens with fireworks on August 29 at Nguyen Tat Thanh Square in Quy Nhon Ward, followed by a second display on September 2 at Dai Doan Ket Square in Pleiku after a special art program celebrating Vietnam’s National Day.
Other events include a food festival, Coffee and Gong Day, the “Colors of the Sea” street parade, and a light and drone show titled “Great Highlands - Blue sea reaching new heights.”
Cultural exhibitions
Exhibitions will also run alongside the festival. The “Soul of the Earth” ceramics showcase is scheduled from August 29 to September 29, while the “Green Essence of the Highlands” bonsai exhibition takes place from August 29 to September 5 at the provincial museum.
Tourism demand
In Quy Nhon Ward, the Hai Au hotel chain, with 250 rooms, has reported a 70% booking rate and is offering discounts of up to 20%. Ky Co tourist site has completed upgrades to its 57-room resort and introduced menus featuring Gia Lai specialties.
Hotels and homestays in Pleiku are nearly full. Pleiku Hotel sees the occupancy of 85–90%. It was also decorated with 2,500 national flags. “We’ve set up a special Independence Day check-in spot for guests,” said hotel manager Mai Cong Huan.
Farmstays including Tiên Sơn, Sora, and Xom are almost fully booked. Paksong Farmstay, which also offers coffee and children’s play areas, has seen strong demand from families in Hanoi, according to the owner Nguyễn Thị Bích Vân.
In Pleiku, cafés have introduced themed drinks such as the “Independence Drink,” which changes color when stirred, and “Happiness Tea,” symbolizing reunion.
At Ia Mo Nong community tourism Village, locals will host activities such as traditional fish catching, weaving, and rice pounding. Photography tours for international visitors are planned for September 3 and 4.
Vietnam’s National Day on September 2 commemorates President Ho Chi Minh’s declaration of independence in 1945.
Officials say this year’s 80th anniversary celebrations in Gia Lai are designed to attract both domestic and international tourists with a mix of cultural events and promotional offers.