From the construction of the massive opening stage to intense art rehearsals and the final touches on the tourism exhibition areas, a festive buzz has taken over the city ahead of the grand opening.

In the late afternoon at the central square of Điện Biên Phủ ward, the last rays of sunlight catch the intricate metalwork of the main stage currently being assembled. Workers are meticulously tightening bolts and inspecting the structural integrity of the frames, their rhythmic drilling punctuated by the urgent calls of teams coordinating the setup. Nearby, groups of young performers are repeating choreography to the beat of drums, their movements becoming sharper and more synchronized with every pass to ensure a flawless presentation for the thousands of expected guests.

The city’s main thoroughfares have been completely redressed with vibrant and large-scale banners and decorative landscapes that highlight the iconic bauhinia flowers. This visual splash, combined with the natural bloom of the trees, has turned the heart of Điện Biên Phủ into a brilliant gallery. Pedestrians and motorists frequently pause to snap photos of the decorations, while many parents take the opportunity to explain the festival’s significance to their children. This physical transformation is mirrored online, where trailers and articles about the festival are being shared widely across social media, fueling the growing sense of anticipation.

The opening program for this year is designed on a monumental scale, blending traditional ethnic art with modern performance technology. Both professional artists and hundreds of local volunteers are currently training at high intensity to ensure the program, which is scheduled to be broadcast live on national television, captures the essence of the province for a countrywide audience.

Meanwhile, on Võ Nguyên Giáp road, the atmosphere is equally electric as teams prepare for the Street Carnival. This event is expected to feature a massive parade of over 2,700 participants, creating a moving mosaic of cultural colors.

“The whole team has been practicing for many days,” shares Lò Thị Biên, a local performer in the carnival. “Everyone is striving to perfect every movement to give visitors a beautiful performance. It is a great joy to participate because this is our chance to introduce the culture of our homeland to friends from near and far.”

At the Mường Thanh Tourism Market, the exhibition booths are rapidly taking shape. Bamboo and wooden frames are being erected and thatched with care, while early arrivals are already test-arranging their OCOP products, handicrafts, and regional specialties. Lý Thanh Tiềm, Director of the provincial Investment, Trade, and Tourism Promotion Center, reports that 136 units have registered to participate with a total of 199 booths, including many representatives from other provinces across the country. This space is expected to be a primary draw for tourists looking to experience the diverse cultural products of various regions in one spot.

For the folk song and dance troupes, the final preparations are deeply personal. Senior artisans are patiently guiding the youth through traditional dance steps at communal houses, while vibrant traditional costumes are being meticulously readied. This folk festival will involve 29 communes and wards, bringing together over 400 artists to perform sets that are steeped in ethnic identity. From the grand art stage to the smallest village booth, every detail is being polished. Điện Biên is not just ready; it is eager to welcome the world.