Saigon weekend: what to do and where to go

Rock Symphony Vol. 3

Experience the fusion of classical and rock music at Rock Symphony Vol. 3 concert, held at the HCM City Opera House this weekend. Hosted by the HCM City Ballet Symphony Orchestra and Opera (HBSO), the concert will feature 17 iconic rock and roll songs from legendary artists like The Beatles, Simon & Garfunkel, ABBA, Michael Jackson, Queen, and more.

"Rock symphony vol.3" poster. Photo courtesy of Ho Chi Minh City Ballet Symphony Orchestra and Opera

These tunes will be given a fresh twist as they are arranged for a symphony orchestra by Slovenian composer and conductor Fedor Vrtachnik.

The event will be held at 8 p.m. on July 29 and 30, at Saigon Opera House, 7 Lam Son Square, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1. Tickets start at VND600,000 ($25.36) per person.

Saigon spice festival

The Saigon Spice Festival 2023 will feature a diverse range of curry dishes from different places, such as the Caribbean, India, Indonesia, Japan, Thailand and Vietnam.

"Saigon spice festival 2023" poster. Photo courtesy of Saigon Outcast

Visitors will have the opportunity to enjoy the festival ambiance, which includes music, dance, and games. There will be live performances by local bands and DJs, along with various food stalls offering fruits, sweets, and beverages for refreshment.

The festival will start at noon and end at 10 p.m. on July 29, at Saigon Outcast, located at 188/1 Nguyen Van Huong Street, Thao Dien Ward, District 2. The entrance ticket is VND50.000 ($2.11) per person (excluding food and drink).

French movie "L'Extraordinaire Voyage de Marona" (Marona's Fantastic Tale)

"L'Extraordinaire Voyage de Marona" is an animated film following the life of a dog named Marona through different owners as she experiences the joys and challenges of being a pet. The story begins with Marona's birth and her life with various owners, including an acrobat named Manole, a construction worker named Istvan, and a little girl named Solange. Throughout her journey, Marona learns the meaning of love, loyalty, and happiness.

"L'Extraordinaire Voyage de Marona" poster. Photo courtesy of French Cinema Rendez-vous

"L'Extraordinaire Voyage de Marona" will be shown at DCiné Cinema, 6 Mac Dinh Chi Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, on July 29 at 7 p.m. Tickets cost VND60,000 ($2.54) per person.

Beethoven piano sonatas cycle: Recital I "Waldstein"

The "Piano Recital I - Waldstein" is a classical music concert featuring four piano sonatas by Ludwig van Beethoven. The concert is part of the series "The Journey of Infinite Creativity," co-organized by Saigon Classical, Arietta, and pianist Nguyen Duc Anh, with events scheduled from July 2023 to July 2024.

The concert will have four sonatas that show Beethoven's different styles and moods, including No.1, No.13, No.21, and No.24. These sonatas were chosen as they represent significant milestones in the composer's artistic journey, offering the audience a diverse and colorful musical experience.

The event will be held from 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., on July 28, at the Arts and Literature Center, 1st floor, 81 Tran Quoc Thao Street, District 3. A suggested donation of VND150,000 ($6.34) is welcomed at the entrance of the "Waldstein" Piano Recital.

Sunday with your pets

The Pet Sunday event at Steersman Brewery in Ho Chi Minh City is an opportunity for pet owners to gather and enjoy a lively atmosphere and beer. Attendees can bring all types of pets to socialize with other pet owners and beer enthusiasts in the brewery's outdoor area.

"Bring your pet Sunday" poster. Photo courtesy of Steersman Brewery - Taproom & Restaurant

Each person accompanied by a pet will receive one complimentary drink, choosing from the brewery's selection of craft beers, cocktails, or nonalcoholic beverages. The brewery offers a diverse range of beverages, along with snacks and food options. It is important to adhere to responsible pet ownership during the event, as pets must be kept on a leash and any waste should be promptly cleaned up.

The event is scheduled for July 30 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Steersman Brewery, located at 18 Phan Ke Binh Street, Da Kao Ward, District 1.