This growth was not merely numerical; the holiday tourism also recorded a distinct shift in visitor trends as travelers sought historical depth, cultural immersion, and professionally organized tourism products.

At the dawn of the new year, a vast number of tourists arrived at the Điện Biên Phủ Victory Museum to begin their spring with a historical exploration. Although the museum remained closed on February 17, it reopened normally on February 18 and saw an immediate rise in attendance. A major highlight this year was the “Tết of Điện Biên Soldiers - Spring 1954” space, which was recreated in a poignant and meaningful atmosphere. Within a rustic battlefield setting, images of Hoàng Cầm stoves, traditional cakes, bamboo tables, and canteens transported the public back to the simple yet faith-filled Tết of the soldiers seventy-two years ago.

Beyond the static displays, the organizers established themed check-in points to attract younger crowds and coordinated activities to pay tribute and present gifts to Điện Biên veterans living in Điện Biên Phủ and Mường Thanh wards. These activities caught the attention of many residents and tourists, helping to spread historical values and the spirit of solidarity between the military and the people. Trần Hữu Bình, a visitor from Hanoi, remarked that participating in this event allowed him to appreciate the sacrifices of previous generations and bolstered his sense of pride and responsibility in preserving history.

To serve tourists effectively, the provincial Monument Management Board enhanced sanitation and assigned guides to sites such as the Temple of Martyrs, Hill A1, the De Castries bunker, and the Campaign Headquarters in Mường Phăng. Special decorations also transformed the Mường Thanh Bridge into a bridge between memory and the present, ensuring that every step taken by visitors became a journey of gratitude.

Alongside the historical focus, a lively atmosphere filled the Mường Thanh Flower Road at the pedestrian street of the Mường Thanh Tourism Market. Under the theme “Mường Thanh Flower Road,” the project harmoniously combined traditional aesthetics with the modern pulse of a walking street. Elaborate zodiac mascots and miniatures were displayed from February 10 to 26, creating an impressive highlight for photography.

The Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism noted that entertainment and sightseeing were concentrated in the center of Điện Biên Phủ ward. The provincial Ethnic Art Troupe performed programs praising the Party and President Hồ Chí Minh at May 7th Square. Additionally, the Movie and Cultural Center organized the “Spring Dance 2026” festival and a mobile book stall for the Spring Newspaper Fair, celebrating both the new year and the 96th anniversary of the founding of the Communist Party of Vietnam.

Thanks to synchronized preparation, the province recorded 70,000 visitors, including 300 international travelers. Over 21,000 guests stayed overnight, resulting in an average room occupancy of 45%. Total tourism revenue reached VND 110 billion, which was 1.43 times higher than the previous year. Many travel agencies observed positive growth trends and intensified their marketing efforts.

Ngô Xuân Cảnh, the Director of Thanh Thanh Tourism Ltd, explained that the company utilized social media promotions and maintained an 8% discount for visitors from Southern provinces, leading to a 20% increase in customers. Reflecting on the 2026 Tết holiday, the most significant achievement was the evolution in the tourism mindset. From local authorities to private businesses, the organization and service standards showed a shift toward being more professional and proactive in welcoming the world.