Hoi An to Host the Vietnam International Choir Competition — Voices Meet Heritage

Hoi An is preparing to take centre stage in the music world again. The UNESCO-listed town hosts the Vietnam International Choir Competition, organised with Interkultur — the body behind the famous World Choir Games — bringing choirs from around the globe to sing among its lantern-lit streets and riverside venues.

Vietnam’s first international choir competition

Held in Hoi An, this is Vietnam’s first international choir competition, gathering singers from many countries every two years for competitions, friendship concerts and evaluation performances. The most recent (8th) edition has wrapped up, and registration is now open for the next, with an Early Bird deadline in September 2026 and final registration by the end of November 2026.

Hoi An’s beautifully preserved Old Town, historic architecture and riverside stages give the event an extraordinary backdrop where musical excellence meets living heritage.

The Hoi An Legendary Night

A highlight of the festival is the renowned “Hoi An Legendary Night,” when lanterns illuminate the ancient streets and music, local cuisine and shared celebration bring participants and visitors together. Even if you’re not competing, it’s a magical time to be in town.

Turn a concert trip into a Hoi An adventure

Choir events fill the calendar with rehearsals and performances spread across different venues — so easy, independent transport makes all the difference. A motorbike rental in Hoi An lets singers and supporters move between stages, hotels and the Ancient Town without waiting on taxis, then explore the beaches and countryside on their free afternoons.

Travelling as a group or prefer something low-key? An electric scooter or bicycle from hoianit.com is an easy, eco-friendly way to get around between performances.

What the Vietnam International Choir means for visitors

For travellers, the Vietnam International Choir Competition turns an already beautiful town into a stage. Performances spill out of formal halls into the lantern-lit streets, riverside squares and centuries-old assembly halls, so even an evening stroll can come with a soundtrack of choirs from dozens of countries. It is run with Interkultur, the organisation behind the World Choir Games, which gives the event genuine international weight.

The timing is ideal if you want culture without the chaos of a mega-festival. Hoi An stays walkable — or easy to explore by scooter — the heritage backdrop is unbeatable for photos, and many performances are free to watch in public spaces. Book accommodation early, though, as competition weeks draw extra visitors.

It is also a reminder that Hoi An is far more than a daytime sightseeing stop. Stay into the evening and the Vietnam International Choir gives you one more reason to linger after the day-trippers leave.

FAQ

Where is the Vietnam International Choir Competition held?

In Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage town, with performances at riverside venues and around the historic Ancient Town.

How do visitors get around Hoi An during the festival?

Renting a motorbike, electric scooter or bicycle is the most flexible way to move between venues, hotels and Hoi An’s attractions.

When is the Vietnam International Choir Competition in Hoi An?

The Vietnam International Choir Competition is scheduled for 2026 in Hoi An. Exact dates are confirmed by the organisers closer to the event, so check official channels before booking your trip.

Explore Hoi An your way

Ready to explore Hoi An on your own terms? Rent a motorbike, electric scooter, electric bike or bicycle at hoianit.com — free delivery to your hotel and 24/7 support!

Part of our complete guide: Motorbike Rental in Hoi An — The Complete 2026 Guide.