Banh mi has long been a simple yet familiar dish for Vietnamese people, with a history of more than 150 years since its introduction to Vietnam. Thanks to the ingenuity and sophistication of the Vietnamese people, Vietnamese Banh mi has established its brand on the global culinary map.  

From being a familiar daily food for locals, Banh mi has also reached international tourists around the world. This is clearly demonstrated through the three previous Vietnam Banh Mi Festivals held in Ho Chi Minh City, all of which received strong public support. 

With the attention and approval of the Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee and relevant departments, agencies, and organizations, the Tourism Association, in collaboration with the Center for Research, Preservation and Development of Vietnamese Cuisine, organizes the 4th Vietnam Banh Mi Festival 2026 with the theme: “Vietnamese Banh mi – A Global Culinary Value Spreading Across Continents.”. The festival will be held from April 23 to April 26, 2026, at Le Van Tam Park, Tan Dinh Ward, Ho Chi Minh City.

In addition to honoring the value of Vietnamese Banh mi, this year’s festival will also serve as an impressive and engaging cultural exchange space between Vietnam and France. Notably, 2026 marks the 15th anniversary since the word “Banh mi” was officially added to the Oxford English Dictionary (March 24, 2011 – March 24, 2026). 

Festival Highlights and Activities includes:

• Participation of businesses from the French Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Vietnam, featuring various activities such as the Baguette Award competition, seminars, and trade exchange activities.

• Thematic seminar: “Vietnamese Banh mi: From Culinary Heritage to Global Brand Positioning”, with the participation of experts, researchers, artisan bakers, and successful Banh mi shop owners from overseas.

• Experiential spaces including lotus-themed mascots, a lotus made of Banh mi, and an Eiffel Tower made of Banh mi.

• Exhibition space showcasing Banh mi of the past and present.

• Record attempt or performance featuring 50 vegetarian dishes served with Banh mi.

• Souvenir booths offering products related to Banh mi.

• Stage performances with vibrant music programs.

• Trade and exhibition areas with culinary booths.

• Donation of Banh mi carts to support startups.

Scale of the Festival: The festival will feature approximately 150 booths, with an expected attendance of over 200,000 visitors. Nearly 100 booths have already been registered.​