Ha Long Bay at night, shimmering with lights (Photo: Truong Giang/VOV-Northeast)

Quang Ninh is one of 12 provinces and cities permitted to pilot the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism’s Night-time Tourism Product Development scheme under the national project on developing the night-time economy approved by the Prime Minister.

Leveraging its breathtaking natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, including two world heritage sites, Ha Long Bay and Yen Tu, Quang Ninh has diversified its night tourism offerings to create distinctive experiences while increasing visitor stay duration and spending.

Doan Anh Vu, Marketing Director of BIM Group, which is developing a series of pedestrian streets, water music shows, and music festivals, said that Quang Ninh needs a signature product which instantly comes to mind for both domestic and international tourists.

Cruise dining is one of Quang Ninh’s standout night tourism offerings. (Photo: Truong Giang/VOV-Northeast)

“We also need to accelerate night-time economy development during the off-season, after the summer peak, as this is prime time for international visitors. I believe the leadership and coordinating role of state agencies is crucial in tourism policy planning and support,” said Vu.

One of the most prominent night-time economy spaces in Quang Ninh is the Halong Marina Street Fest, a pedestrian street located in Bai Chay ward.

Unlike traditional night market models, Halong Marina is designed as an open, international-style festival space, serving visitors day and night with full amenities and diverse experiences for all age groups.

Halong Marina Street Fest, which takes place throughout the week rather than being confined to a few evening hours, features food stalls, entertainment zones, shopping areas, check-in points, and events. The street fest drew 12,000 visitors in the first few days after its July opening.

Nguyen Thi Thanh Dung, a resident of Bai Chay ward, said, “The street fest offers an enjoyable weekend experience for families and friends. I particularly like the music shows here. They are just excellent.”

Quang Ninh hosts a number of large-scale concerts. (Photo: Truong Giang/VOV-Northeast)

Night-time economic activities contribute approximately 70% of tourism revenue in the former Ha Long area. Visitors increase their spending by 300-400 USD thanks to night-time services.

But according to the provincial Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism, the local night-time economy has yet to reach its full potential due to limited scale, weak regional connectivity, and inconsistent infrastructure and security in some areas.

Dr. Nguyen Anh Tuan, Director of the Institute for Tourism Development Research, offered several recommendations for more robust growth.

“Plans to transform Quang Ninh into a regional and international connectivity hub underline the need for large-scale night performances and outdoor live shows, as nowhere compares to Ha Long Bay. Infrastructure planning and the integration of products and services into a unified night-time ecosystem are essential,” Dr. Tuan noted.

Street carnivals are a highlight of Quang Ninh's tourism. (Photo: Truong Giang/VOV-Northeast)

Quang Ninh has a major opportunity to turn its night-time economy into a driver of sustainable development for tourism and the local economy. The Halong Marina Street Fest, pedestrian streets, music festivals, and cultural entertainment spaces are shaping a busy 24-hour city.

Despite existing challenges, with clear strategic direction, sustained investment, and professional management, Quang Ninh is well positioned to unlock its night-time economic potential.

By transforming nighttime into a new resource, Quang Ninh is set to increase visitor experiences, spur growth, and establish itself as a dynamic domestic and international tourism and service hub.