A performance at the opening ceremony of the Amazing Bình Định Fest. — VNA/VNS Photo Sỹ Thắng

BÌNH ĐỊNH — The Amazing Bình Định Fest, an impressive art show involving hundreds of artists, has kicked off Bình Định culture, sports and tourism week.

The fest, one of the biggest events in the central province of Bình Định, showcased a musical play depicting the history of Bình Định. The performance combined elements of traditional music, world music and local traditional martial arts.

Addressing the opening ceremony, Chairman of the provincial People’s Committee Phạm Anh Tuấn said the festival runs from March 22-31, featuring a variety of cultural, sports and tourism activities. It aims to promote the culture, tourism and sporting spirit of people in Bình Định Province.

“Through this special event, Bình Định aims to promote the image of its people and its scenic landscapes to tourists and investors both domestically and internationally. The goal is to foster sustainable tourism development and establish connections between the province and reputable organisations, corporations and businesses nationwide and internationally,” he noted.

The highlights of the festival include the UIM-ABP Aquabike World Championship taking place from March 22-24 and the UIM-F1H2O Grand Prix from March 29-31.

According to the Chairman, Bình Định is the first locality in Việt Nam to host a World Championship in aquatic sports. Particularly, one representative from Việt Nam, the F1H20 Bình Định - Vietnam Powerboat Racing Team, participate in the competition.

“This is a special and prestigious sporting event with the participation of top racers from around the world. The race promises to be a turning point for maritime sports in Việt Nam, bringing a new model of sports economy associated with international events that will spread throughout the country.

Other main activities include a culinary fest, a buffet party with 77 specialties of Bình Định Province, an international music night, the Bình Định martial arts night, the Aquabike Show, a Drone Light and motorised paragliders show, as well as investment and trade promotion conferences with the Vietnam-Canada Business Association.

Some cultural, sports and tourism activities will also be held within the framework of the festival, such as a street carnival programme, a street music and arts performance programme, and a traditional boat racing tournament.

Bình Định welcomed more than five million tourists in 2023, earning more than VNĐ16.5 trillion (US$666 million), an increase of 25 per cent compared to 2022. The province targets 5.5 million visitors and VNĐ18.5 trillion in tourism revenue this year. — VNS