Brian Jeffrey
Beyond the primary grandstand seating of 10,000, residents, hotels, and eateries along Tran Hung Dao Street in Son Tra District, which has a direct view of the fireworks display, are benefiting by renting out rooftop spots. Prices vary, starting from several hundred thousand to several million VND per individual.
On May 20, reporters from VietNamNet observed numerous high-rise buildings along the Han River displaying signs for rooftop seating availability. Social media and travel forums are filled with posts promoting these options.
A recent survey indicated that cruises on the Han River offer seats at prices ranging from 800,000 VND to nearly 3 million VND ($32 to $120) per person, depending on the type of boat, seating position, and the specific fireworks date. For example, the Han River Cruise Company charges 1 million VND for seats on the lower level and 1.2 million VND for the upper level, both inclusive of a light meal and drinks.
On Tran Hung Dao Street, rooftop seating typically costs between 300,000 and 1 million VND ($12 to $40) per person. Booking a whole rooftop for 15 to 30 individuals can exceed 10 million VND, based on the services provided.
At 185 Tran Hung Dao, front-row rooftop seats for the grand opening night are priced at 700,000 VND, while seats further back are available for 350,000 VND. Both options include light snacks.
“The fourth floor is completely booked. Only the fifth and sixth floors have seats left,” stated Ms. M.B., a representative of the building.
In the vicinity, another tall building is providing rooftop seats for 400,000 VND each, with a preference for groups of 10 to 15. Smaller groups may be accommodated depending on seat availability.
Along with private residences and hotels, several restaurants are also entering the fireworks-viewing market.
Ms. N., a representative of restaurant L.G. on Tran Hung Dao Street, mentioned: “We offer rooms for fireworks viewing at 2 million VND per room for groups of 10 or more, not including food. For groups of five or more, the viewing fee is set at 1 million VND. Individuals who do not order food will be charged 200,000 VND each, but we may limit solo bookings.”
The DIFF 2025 festival, themed “Da Nang – A New Era,” will take place from May 31 to July 12, featuring six nights of fireworks with competing teams from various countries including Vietnam, Finland, the UK, Portugal, Poland, South Korea, Italy, Canada, and China.
