The Games also serve to assess the development of sports and physical training, as well as the movement “All people exercise following Uncle Hồ’s example” across the province. To ensure the event’s success and effectiveness, the Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism has been actively advising and implementing comprehensive preparations.

The Games are expected to take place from May 7 to 11, 2026, drawing 56 delegations from sectors, agencies, units, and localities, with around 1,500 coaches and athletes. Competitions will be held in 20 sports with 143 events. Sports with the largest number of events include tug of stick (23 events), athletics (22), crossbow shooting (16), and swimming (14). Venues include the provincial stadium, the provincial multi-purpose gymnasium, and several other locations in Điện Biên Phủ ward. The opening ceremony is scheduled for the morning of May 7, with more than 10,000 delegates and participants expected, while the closing ceremony will take place on the afternoon of May 11.

According to Nguyễn Hoàng Hiệp, Deputy Director of the Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism, as the standing agency, the department has advised the provincial People’s Committee to issue plans for organizing sports games at all levels across the province, as well as the plan for the 12th provincial Sports Games. It has also proposed the consolidation of the Games’ Steering Board and Organizing Panel. At the same time, the department has reviewed facilities, equipment, and venues for the opening, competitions, and closing ceremonies to ensure readiness during the Games. Relevant sectors, agencies, and localities have been urged to promptly complete sports games at their respective units.

By the end of December 2025, 4 of 11 departments, sectors, and units, along with 40 of 45 communes and wards, had completed their sports games and selected outstanding athletes to compete at the provincial level. Under the plan, the remaining departments, units, and communes will complete their games in the first quarter of 2026.

To keep preparations on schedule, the Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism has advised and organized competitions in several sports ahead of the main event. Three sports: basketball, volleyball, and football covering a total of nine events have already been completed, with nine sets of medals awarded to top performing teams. In the first quarter of 2026, additional pre-Games competitions will be held, including pickleball (five events), sport dancing (four events), recreational dance (one event), and cycling (eight events). The remaining sports will be contested during the official Games period.

In the coming period, the department will expedite the development of detailed plans and competition regulations for each sport, and coordinate with relevant agencies and units to mobilize participating forces, training groups, and performers for the opening ceremony. Draft documents, scripts, and overall programs for the Games are being prepared, alongside rehearsals for parades, formations, lettering displays, and mass sports performances at the opening ceremony. Public communication about the Games will also be stepped up through mass media so officials and residents are informed of competition schedules and venues and can attend to cheer on the athletes.

With proactive and thorough preparations, the 12th provincial Sports Games in 2026 is expected to be held successfully, ensuring absolute safety, solidarity, and strong overall results. Featuring a wide range of attractive competitions, the Games are anticipated to draw large crowds, creating a vibrant, lively, and uplifting atmosphere among officials and the public throughout the province.