Top Events & Things to Do in Hue This April 2026
The “Imperial Citadel by Night in April” program
Vividly recreates the atmosphere of the Royal Palace after dark through a series of artistic performances and cultural experiences.
As a highlight activity of the Summer Festival “The Citadel Shines”, the program is open to the public with free admission.
The program opens with the Changing of the Guards Ceremony at Ngọ Môn Gate, combined with ceremonial cannon-fire effects marking the official opening of the Imperial Palace. This is followed by a 3D mapping performance showcasing royal court motifs on Trung Đạo Bridge. A graceful lantern dance performed by court ladies then leads visitors toward the courtyard of Thái Hòa Palace.
At this central space, the program’s main highlight is the staged Royal Court Ceremony (Thiết Triều), recreating the solemn atmosphere of governance during the Nguyễn Dynasty. The experience continues with the Military Departure Ceremony and Royal Guard Demonstration on the eastern side of Thái Hòa Palace, featuring traditional martial performances such as flag dancing, staff and spear demonstrations, archery, and fire effects, evoking the powerful presence of the imperial army. Meanwhile, the western side of Thái Hòa Palace hosts the Imperial Market, offering visitors a variety of distinctive cultural experiences.
Notably, starting from 5:30 PM daily, the Imperial Culinary Space at Phủ Nội Vụ welcomes visitors before they begin their evening exploration of Huế Imperial City. This activity takes place from April 24 to May 2, 2026, with flexible dining formats available.
The Huế Culinary Buffet (ticketed event) will be organized on April 26, 28, 30 and May 2. On the remaining dates (April 24, 25, 27, 29 and May 1), visitors may enjoy Huế cuisine through set menus and à la carte options, catering to diverse dining preferences.
Image 1 : Hue Arts Museum (15–17 Lê Lợi Street, Thuận Hóa Ward)
The VnExpress Marathon,
Hue’s largest annual running event, will be held on April 19, 2026, bringing together thousands of runners to experience the historic city through a vibrant sporting celebration.
Hue Dien Hue Nam Festival – April 18–19, 2026
The traditional Dien Hue Nam Festival will take place on April 18–19, featuring one of its most sacred highlights — the Procession of the Holy Mother on the Perfume River. A ceremonial fleet of dragon boats will escort Holy Mother Thiên Y A Na along with ritual offerings, creating a mystical and spiritual spectacle on the water, deeply rooted in Huế’s folk beliefs and royal-era traditions.
Exhibition on French Architecture & Historical Heritage in Hue — Throughout April 2026
Throughout April 2026, the Hue Arts Museum (15–17 Lê Lợi Street, Thuận Hóa Ward) will host a special exhibition showcasing French colonial architecture and historical heritage sites of Huế. The exhibition presents archival materials, images, and cultural narratives highlighting the architectural dialogue between Eastern imperial heritage and Western influences that have shaped the city’s unique urban identity.
Image 2 : Imperial Citadel by Night in April
