From Pho to Handicrafts: Vietnam’s Vibrant Cultural Showcase at Colombo’s Charity Bazaar Bridging Sri Lanka and Vietnam’s Growing Tourism- Everything You Need to Know About the Global Festival

Published on November 25, 2025

The annual festive charity event at the historic Galle Face Hotel in Colombo, Sri Lanka, turned into a vibrant celebration of Vietnam’s cultural identity as crowds gravitated toward its distinctly styled booth. This year’s expanded bazaar, featuring more than 100 global stalls, offered visitors a colourful mix of crafts, flavours and traditions, yet it was Vietnam’s showcase that pulled remarkable attention. The presence of pho, spring rolls, handicrafts and lively cultural symbols created an inviting ambience that stood out across the venue. The impressive turnout also reflected growing curiosity about Vietnamese culture among Sri Lankan and international visitors. As the event continued to uplift cross-border friendship, the strong engagement around the Vietnamese booth further emphasised the rising popularity of Vietnam as both a culinary gem and a promising travel destination. With Colombo, Sri Lanka and Vietnam all in the spotlight, the occasion strengthened cultural ties and widened tourism interest.

Vietnam Captivates Global Guests With Authentic Experiences

The expanded charity fair, featuring over a hundred international stalls, provided guests with a wide variety of global experiences, yet Vietnam’s booth maintained a compelling presence throughout the day. The vivid red décor inspired by the Vietnamese flag, traditional clothing and cultural symbols immediately drew attention.

One of the strongest pulls for visitors was the wide array of well-known Vietnamese dishes. Items such as pho, fresh spring rolls, Vietnamese coffee, dried fruits, coconut sweets and handmade souvenirs captured long, enthusiastic queues. Vietnamese coffee, known for its rich flavour, sold out rapidly, while the aroma of pho and the freshness of spring rolls made the booth one of the busiest corners of the entire bazaar.

Many guests expressed familiarity with Vietnamese tastes through local restaurants, past travels or global media coverage. This familiarity boosted excitement, encouraging them to try new snacks and purchase artisanal crafts including bamboo dragonflies and leather goods.

Strengthening Cultural Connections Between Vietnam And Sri Lanka

Vietnam’s presence at the charity event served as a meaningful representation of cross-cultural connection. The participation of the Vietnamese community in Colombo contributed significantly to the event’s vibrancy, highlighting pride in national heritage and community solidarity.

Diplomatic representatives emphasised that the fair acts as an annual opportunity to promote cultural expression and enhance people-to-people engagement between Vietnam, Sri Lanka and international attendees. The popularity of the Vietnamese booth symbolised the increasing recognition of Vietnam’s cultural and culinary identity in Sri Lanka, reinforcing mutual goodwill between the two nations.

Proceeds from the Vietnamese booth were directed toward humanitarian relief, including support for Vietnamese communities affected by natural disasters and charitable projects in Sri Lanka. This humanitarian aspect added a meaningful layer to the overall celebration.

Tourism Growth And Travel Prospects Between Both Countries

Travel interest between the two nations continues to rise steadily. Sri Lankan authorities recorded an average monthly flow of 300 Vietnamese visitors to Sri Lanka and 1,000 Sri Lankan tourists travelling to Vietnam in the first ten months of 2025. The anticipated launch of a direct flight route between the two countries is expected to significantly increase tourist numbers on both sides.

Vietnam remains a favourite among Sri Lankan travellers for its mix of cultural heritage, beaches, street food and UNESCO sites such as Hoi An and Ha Long Bay. Similarly, Sri Lanka appeals to Vietnamese travellers with its coastal retreats, tea plantations, wildlife sanctuaries and historical sites like Sigiriya.

The bazaar acted as an indirect promotional platform, strengthening travel curiosity and encouraging travellers to explore destinations featured at the fair.

What Travellers Should Look Forward To

Visitors planning future travel between Vietnam and Sri Lanka can look forward to:

• Immersive local cuisine featuring unique flavour profiles.
• Distinctive handicrafts and souvenirs such as bamboo art and traditional textiles.
• Heritage sites and natural landscapes embraced by both countries.
• Convenient itineraries once the upcoming direct flights begin operations.

Both destinations are known for warm hospitality, making cross-border travel appealing for families, solo travellers and cultural explorers.

Travel Tips For Visitors Exploring These Destinations

1. Try Authentic Street Food

Vietnam’s street food culture is globally admired. Travellers should try local markets in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City or Da Nang. Sri Lanka’s vibrant food scene, from hoppers to seafood, is equally rewarding.

2. Carry Lightweight Clothing

Both Vietnam and Sri Lanka have tropical climates. Light and breathable clothing ensures comfort during sightseeing.

3. Learn Simple Local Phrases

Although English is widely used in tourist zones, learning basic Vietnamese or Sinhala greetings enhances interactions with locals.

4. Explore Offbeat Attractions

In Vietnam, consider destinations like Ninh Binh or Phu Yen. In Sri Lanka, explore less crowded gems such as Jaffna or the Knuckles Mountain Range.

5. Support Local Crafts

Handmade crafts help sustain local communities. Items like bamboo carvings, woven baskets or natural-based products make memorable keepsakes.

A Vibrant Moment Strengthening Regional Bonds

The energy and enthusiasm around Vietnam’s stall in Colombo made the event more than just a seasonal charity bazaar. It evolved into a celebration of cultural pride, tourism potential and shared community spirit. As visitor interest in Vietnamese cuisine and crafts continues to rise, the ties between Vietnam and Sri Lanka grow stronger, paving the way for future collaboration in hospitality, travel and cultural exchange.