Da Nang's iconic Han River shines bright at largest fireworks fest in 15 years

The 2025 Da Nang International Fireworks Festival (DIFF) officially lit up the skies over the Han River in Da Nang City, central Vietnam on Saturday evening, marking the grandest and longest edition in the festival's 15-year history.

The opening night featured dazzling performances by the host team from Da Nang and 2024 champion Finland.

Despite a downpour earlier in the day, over 10,000 spectators filled the grandstands well ahead of the event, while tens of thousands lined both banks of the Han River, eager for the return of this iconic festival.

Themed 'Da Nang - The New Rising Era,' DIFF 2025 brings together 10 teams, including two from Vietnam, and one each from Finland, the United Kingdom, Portugal, Poland, South Korea, Italy, Canada, and China.

They are scheduled to compete until July 12.

It is the first time DIFF has introduced a massive outdoor augmented reality (AR) experience that covers an area of 600,000 square meters with nearly 10 million pixels.

Kicking off the season in spectacular fashion, the host team from Da Nang delivered a display that surprised and thrilled the audience with its dynamic energy and masterful fireworks choreography.

Over 5,000 fireworks were launched in a musical display that unfolded in four acts - Harmony, Tribute, Integration, and Glory - celebrating Vietnam's cultural journey onto the global stage.

With glittering rain effects, soft color transitions, cascading fireworks, and thunderous synchronized bursts, the performance took viewers on an emotional ride from deep reflection to explosive joy.

However, some of the visual impact was diminished by lingering smoke from the display.

Meanwhile, the Finnish team showcased its signature water fireworks that helped it secure the victory at DIFF 2024.

The nearly 20-minute performance was marked by sudden climaxes and dramatic high-altitude fireworks.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Le Trung Chinh, chairman of the Da Nang Peoples Committee, emphasized the significance of this years event.

"This year's edition not just offers a sensory experience of light, art, and music, but also serves as a symphony in celebration of the 50th anniversary of the liberation of southern Vietnam and the reunification of the country," he said.

"This is a moment to affirm our aspirations and determination to grow.

"It is an opportunity for Da Nang to reinforce its status as 'Asia's Leading Festival and Event Destination,' drawing international friends to a dynamic and creative city."

Tieu Bac - Truong Trung / Tuoi Tre News

(2025/06/02-11:20)