Capture the Magic: Nguyen Hue Flower Street Welcomes the Year of the Horse

Step into the vibrant “heart” of Ho Chi Minh City as it celebrates the Year of the Horse 2026! Nguyen Hue Flower Street, a 23-year-old tradition, has officially opened for visit, transforming the iconic pedestrian into a breathtaking floral wonderland. Under the theme “Spring of Unity – Steady Growth,” the 2026 display highlights the city’s new stature following its historic merger with Binh Duong and Ba Ria–Vung Tau

As hosts, we are thrilled to see the city come alive with such artistry! This year’s theme celebrates spring, family, and the city’s aspiration for smart urban development. From massive mascots inspired by Vietnamese legends to the cutting-edge integration of AI and AR technology, the 2026 Flower Street offers a seamless journey where tradition meets the future!

Whether you are looking for a perfect “check-in” spot or a deep dive into Vietnamese Tet culture, this is the unmissable destination for your Lunar New Year journey in Saigon.

Information

• Date:  February 15 – February 22, 2026

• Time: 19:00 (Feb 15) – 21:00 (Feb 22)

• Featured Location: Nguyen Hue Walking Street, Sai Gon Ward, HCMC

Event Summary

Key Highlights of the Flower Street

1.  The Mighty Mascots

At the entrance near the City People’s Committee, you’ll be greeted by a 7-meter tall golden horse mascot. Inspired by the legend of Saint Giong, this “fire horse” is equipped with motors to move its head and legs, symbolically greeting visitors as it “rides into the sky” to protect the nation.

Along the street, look out for the “Nine Red-Maned Horses” (inspired by the legend of Son Tinh and Thuy Tinh) uses color-shifting paint that changes hue as you walk past, creating a mesmerizing 3D effect, and the eco-friendly “Leisurely Steed” crafted from woven bamboo.

2. Where Tech Meets Tradition

 For the first time, Visitors can use AI and AR (Augmented Reality) via smartphones to “transform” into fairy tale characters or receive personalized greetings. By scanning QR codes, vivid 3D images of Tet stories will appear on your smartphone. Don’t miss the Projection Mapping show at night, where dynamic visuals are cast directly onto the mascots’ surfaces.

3.  “Ly Ngua O” & Cultural Zones

Explore different zones featuring traditional apricot and peach blossoms, a creative zone for youth, and installations inspired by Southern folk songs like “Ly Ngua O” (Song of the Black Stallion), featuring 3D holographic patterns.

Small Tips for Airbnb Guests

• ⏰ Arrive early in the morning (around 7-8 AM) to avoid the heat and crowds, or after 7 PM to see the light performances.

• 👟 Wear comfortable walking shoes and consider wearing an Ao Dai (traditional Vietnamese dress) for the most authentic Tet photos!

• 📱  Keep your phone charged and data ready to scan QR codes for the augmented reality experiences.

• 🎒  As the street gets very crowded, keep your personal belongings (wallets, phones) in front of you. 

Traffic & Movement Guide

🚫 Road Closures: Nguyen Hue Walking Street and several surrounding intersections will be closed to vehicles during the event.

🛵 Parking: Look for designated parking lots on nearby streets like Ham Nghi, Le Loi, or inside shopping malls like Saigon Centre/Takashimaya.

💡 Fun Fact: This year’s display celebrates the “New Saigon” after its landmark expansion, symbolizing the city’s growth and dynamic future!

The 2026 Flower Street also features the most diverse collection of flowers ever assembled in HCMC, including rare orchids and temperate species brought in specifically to celebrate the city’s expansion and prosperity. Oh, and don’t forget to visit the nearby Tet Book Street and Calligraphy Street for a complete cultural experience!