Culinary bliss and ballet enchantment shine in Saigon's weekend

Festival "Glory of Vietnamese culinary culture"

A food festival titled the "Glory of Vietnamese Culinary Culture" is scheduled to take place in Ho Chi Minh City from Friday to Sunday. The event is organized to pay homage to the rich and diverse culinary heritage of Vietnam. It will showcase an array of 126 dishes, representing all 63 cities and provinces across the country.

A poster of the "Glory of Vietnamese culinary culture" festival. Photo courtesy of Glory of Vietnamese Culinary Culture

The festival will feature over 100 booths, each dedicated to introducing regional dishes. There will also be food demonstrations and a music program.

The festival will span three days, from Oct. 20 to 22, and run from 8:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. during these days. It will take place at the Independence Palace, at 135 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia Street, District 1. Admission is free.

Saigon Brew Fest 2023

Rehab Station presents the 3rd Beer Festival, the Saigon Brew Fest, a celebration of craft beer in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City. This event brings together 12 independent local breweries and brands.

Saigon Brew Fest 2023 poster. Photo courtesy of Rehab Station - Social Craft Beer Hub

In addition to the beverages, guests will have the opportunity to partake in a diverse selection of culinary offerings to enhance their tasting experience. Furthermore, the festival atmosphere will be enriched by musical accompaniments.

The Saigon Brew Fest 2023 will take place on Oct. 21, 2023, from noon to midnight at the Rehab Station - Social Craft Beer Hub, at 27/6 Nguyen Binh Khiem Street, District 1.

Made in Vietnam 2023

Saigon Outcast is set to host the premiere edition of the "Made in Vietnam" market, an exclusive event curated to provide a platform for local craftsmanship and creativity. The event features a diverse range of locally crafted products, including handmade jewelry, custom clothing, and gourmet food and beverages, all meticulously created by skilled local artisans.

"Made in Vietnam" poster. Photo courtesy of Saigon Outcast

The event takes place on Oct. 21 from noon to 10 p.m. at Saigon Outcast, at 188/1 Nguyen Van Huong Street, District 2.

Giselle Ballet

The classic ballet "Giselle" will grace the stage of the Saigon Opera House this Friday and Saturday. "Giselle" is known for its exploration of themes like love, deception, and deep human emotions.

"Giselle" will be performed by a Vietnamese ensemble of talented dancers. Photo courtesy of Ho Chi Minh City Ballet Symphony Orchestra and Opera

"Giselle" was first presented in Paris in 1841. It marked a departure from traditional ballet by emphasizing storytelling and human emotions over technical prowess. The story follows Giselle, a young woman who falls in love with a nobleman in disguise. When she learns the truth, heartbreak leads to a supernatural twist as she returns as a vengeful spirit. The ballet explores themes of love, betrayal, and forgiveness.

The performance will be presented on Oct. 20 and 21, at 8 p.m., at The Opera House, at 07 Lam Son Square, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1. Ticket prices vary from VND400,000 to VND750,000 ($16 to $30).

Vietnamese Women's Day dinner buffet

The Vietnamese Women's Day dinner buffet is an event hosted at Market 39 in celebration of Vietnamese Women's Day, serving a wide array of local and international delicacies.

The chefs at Market 39 have curated a selection that includes fresh sashimi, seafood, premium imported meats, bulot snails, raclette cheese, and an assortment of appetizers and desserts. Women in attendance will also receive a gift from the brand Elixir by Shiseido.

The Vietnamese Women's Day dinner buffet will feature a wide range of fresh seafood. Photo courtesy of Market 39

The dinner buffet is priced at VND1,200,000 ($48) per person for food only. An additional VND300,000 per person grants access to a free flow of house wines, beer, and soft drinks.

The event is slated for Oct. 20, running from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., and it will take place at Market 39, situated on the ground floor of the InterContinental Saigon, at the intersection of Hai Ba Trung Street and Le Duan Boulevard in District 1.