Notre-Dame Cathedral
Notre-Dame Cathedral, proudly standing in the heart of District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, is a must-visit destination as Christmas approaches. Despite being under renovation, this iconic structure still captivates visitors with its grandeur, attracting both locals and tourists for sightseeing and photography.
With its two bell towers soaring 60 meters towards the sky, the cathedral is more dazzling than ever, thanks to a massive 500,000-meter LED lighting system that illuminates the nights leading up to Christmas and the New Year 2025.
This is the second time this symbolic landmark has been adorned for the holidays since its renovation began in 2017. The lighting system’s unique feature is the use of LED bulbs that don’t emit heat, ensuring aesthetic beauty while protecting the church’s precious architecture and greenery. Last year, 80,000 meters of lights were used to accentuate the twin bell towers, creating a magical and vibrant atmosphere during the festive season.
If you’re seeking a sparkling setting to immerse yourself in the Christmas spirit, Notre-Dame Cathedral is the perfect spot, where light and sanctity blend to offer peace and warmth during the year’s final days.
Tan Dinh Church
Featured in CNTraveler magazine’s list of “The World’s Most Beautiful Pink Destinations,” Tan Dinh Church, affectionately known as the “Pink Church” by locals, shines brightly during the Christmas season. Beyond being a sacred place of worship, it captivates those who appreciate a blend of antique and modern charm.
Its striking facade boasts a main tower reaching 52.6 meters high, complemented by two symmetrical side towers. Atop the main tower, a 3-meter-tall copper cross shines brightly against the sparkling lights.
The main tower also houses a set of five bells, weighing a total of 5.5 tons, that ring out emotional carols during the festive season.
The church’s architecture seamlessly blends refinement and solidity. The side towers are designed with lamp towers, ventilation holes, and intricate carvings, resulting in a perfect balance. The roof’s fish-scale tiles, round windows adorned with foliage and angel statues, lend a unique and graceful touch that captivates all who visit.
Not only does Tan Dinh Church attract locals, but it has also become a “virtual living room” for young people and international tourists, especially those enamored with the sweet pink hue. During Christmas, the church becomes even more vibrant, providing a splendid backdrop for memorable photos while exuding peace and warmth during the year’s final days.
Christian Hamlet on Pham The Hien Street
Stretching along Pham The Hien Street, about 4 kilometers long, the Christian Hamlet in District 8, Ho Chi Minh City, is dubbed one of the “hearts” of Saigon’s Christmas celebrations. It comprises five adjacent parishes: Binh Thai, Binh An Thuong, Binh An Ha, Binh Thuan, and Binh Son, infusing the area with festive cheer and warmth.
As Christmas approaches, the hamlet glows with elaborately decorated grottoes, sparkling lights, and shining stars. Along the street, residents enthusiastically craft unique miniatures, depicting the story of the birth of Christ, bringing the entire area to life with vibrant colors.
Unlike the bustling central streets, the Christian Hamlet on Pham The Hien offers a peaceful and intimate atmosphere. It attracts not only locals but also tourists seeking to experience the community-centric Christmas spirit.
Strolling along this street during the year’s final days, you’ll be immersed in a dazzling display of lights and sounds of sacred carols, feeling the warmth of the hamlet’s unity and hospitality. It’s a meaningful destination to bid farewell to the old year and welcome a fresh start.
Binh An Thuong Church
For over a decade, Binh An Thuong Church in District 8, Ho Chi Minh City, has been a beloved Christmas destination, thanks to its unique artificial snow spraying feature. The grotto area, with its floating snow, creates a European-like setting in the heart of Saigon, offering a novel and exciting experience for hundreds of visitors.
From mid-November, the church begins its festive preparations. The grotto is meticulously constructed with two foam-generating machines installed at the top, creating a romantic snow-falling effect.
Inside, statues of Baby Jesus, Mother Mary, angels, and small donkeys are carefully arranged to vividly portray the Christmas story.
Not only the grotto but also the entire interior of the church and its premises are lavishly decorated. Sparkling lights, the colors of the Christmas tree, and meticulously crafted miniatures transform the place into a warm, sacred, and vibrant space.
A visit to Binh An Thuong Church offers not just architectural admiration and a unique Christmas atmosphere but also a chance to experience the warmth of the local religious community. It’s an ideal spot to capture memorable moments during the festive season in Ho Chi Minh City.
