The Son River Carp Festival and the Boat Racing Festival on April 30 are two distinct cultural events that occur during the celebration of the Liberation of the South and national unification in Phong Nha, Quang Binh. These festivals are very popular among tourists as they provide a unique cultural experience.

The Son River Carp Festival

Son River carp  is a well-known delicacy in the Phong Nha-Ke Bang area of Quang Binh. These fish are bred in the Son River, a tributary of the Gianh River, where the water is fresh and there are plenty of natural food sources. Because of this, Son River Carp has a delicious meat quality that is firm and sweet, with less fishy taste and rich in nutrients.

The Son River Carp is a highly nutritious food source that offers an abundance of protein, vitamins and minerals that are essential for a healthy body. It is also a delicious dish that is prepared in many diverse ways, including carp hotpot, braised carp, steamed carp, carp salad,... The Son River Carp dish is a significant contributor to the tourism brand of Phong Nha - Ke Bang locality.

Time: Take place on April 28 2024

Address: Phong Nha – Ke Bang Tourism Center, Phong Nha Town, Bo Trach District, Quang Binh Province.

Festival Content:

• Carp Fish Contest: Carp farming households along the Son River will bring their biggest and most beautiful carp to the contest.
• Exhibition of Traditional Carp Dishes: This exhibit will feature traditional local cuisine that includes dishes made with carp.
• Enjoy Cuisine: Visitors will have the opportunity to savor delicious dishes prepared with Son River Carp.

The Phong Nha Traditional Boat Racing Festival

The Phong Nha Traditional Boat Racing Festival is a unique cultural event that takes place annually in the Bo Trach District of Quang Binh Province. This festival is held on April 30th and attracts a large number of tourists who come to watch and cheer for the racing teams. 

The festival includes many exciting and attractive activities, with the most prominent being the men's and women's boat races, covering distances of 200m, 500m and 1000m. Racing teams come from communes and towns in Bo Trach District, as well as from neighboring localities. The atmosphere at the festival is always lively and festive with visitors cheering and creating a vibrant and jubilant atmosphere.

The Son River Carp Festival and Boat Racing Festival on April 30  are not just an opportunity for local people to have fun but also to promote the image of Phong Nha - Ke Bang tourism to domestic and foreign tourists. 

If you plan to attend the festival, it's recommended that you book hotel rooms and plane/train/bus tickets in advance due to the peak tourist season. As Quang Binh experiences sunny weather during this time, do not forget to bring sunscreen, hats, sunglasses and appropriate clothing for recreational activities. Additionally, you should combine visiting tourist attractions around Phong Nha Town to have a more fulfilling experience.

 >>>Discover attractive destinations tourist in Quang Binh