Vietnam and the Federal Republic of Germany established diplomatic relations on September 23, 1975, and elevated their bilateral ties to a Strategic Partnership for the Future in October 2011. Since then, friendship and cooperation between the two countries have developed positively, becoming increasingly extensive, effective, and comprehensive across various sectors. Germany is currently one of Vietnam’s most important partners in Europe, its largest trading partner within the European Union (EU), and one of the EU’s leading investors in Vietnam.
Vietnam and the Federal Republic of Germany established diplomatic relations on September 23, 1975, and elevated their bilateral ties to a Strategic Partnership for the Future in October 2011. Since then, friendship and cooperation between the two countries have developed positively, becoming increasingly extensive, effective, and comprehensive across various sectors. Germany is currently one of Vietnam’s most important partners in Europe, its largest trading partner within the European Union (EU), and one of the EU’s leading investors in Vietnam.
Vietnam holds a unique position in Southeast Asia thanks to its strong and enduring people-to-people connections with Germany. A large number of Vietnamese students, workers, and professionals have lived, studied, and worked in Germany, gaining familiarity with the German language and culture. The multigenerational Vietnamese community in Germany is deeply integrated into German society and has made significant contributions to the country’s economic and social development. These connections represent an invaluable shared asset and serve as an essential catalyst for the diverse and distinctive development of bilateral relations.
In Da Nang, foreign relations, trade and investment promotion, and cooperation with German partners have been actively strengthened in recent years. Each year, the city welcomes numerous German business delegations seeking to explore its investment environment. In return, Da Nang regularly organizes delegations of city leaders and business representatives to Germany to promote investment, tourism, trade, and other areas of cooperation.
To date, Da Nang has attracted approximately 24 German foreign direct investment (FDI) projects, with a total registered capital of around USD 233.3 million. These projects are primarily concentrated in manufacturing and processing industries, automotive component production, plastic products, textiles and garments, and software services.
In accordance with the 2026 Plan for People-to-People Diplomacy Activities in Da Nang, approved by the Da Nang People’s Committee under Decision No. 2006/QD-UBND dated October 15, 2025, the Da Nang Union of Friendship Organizations (DAFO) and the Da Nang Vietnam–Germany Friendship Association, in collaboration with Thuan Nhi One Member Limited Liability Company, will organize “Oktoberfest – The Heritage Train to Munich 2026”.
The festival celebrates the 51st anniversary of diplomatic relations between Vietnam and Germany (September 23, 1975 – September 23, 2026) and the 15th anniversary of the Vietnam–Germany Strategic Partnership (October 11, 2011 – October 11, 2026).
As an annual event, the festival provides a meaningful opportunity for Vietnamese people who have previously lived, worked, or studied in Germany to reunite, exchange experiences, and share cherished memories with German friends. Through these interactions, the event contributes to strengthening friendship, mutual understanding, and cooperation between the peoples of both countries.
The festival also aims to stimulate tourism demand and promote Da Nang’s image as a vibrant city of events and festivals, as well as a safe, attractive, and welcoming destination for domestic and international visitors.
The German Beer Festival and Cultural and Culinary Exchange Program was previously held in 2019, 2023, 2024, and 2025, attracting large numbers of Da Nang residents and international friends.
Returning for its fifth edition in 2026, the festival promises a larger-scale celebration, taking place from October 22 to 24, 2026, from 6:30 PM to 11:00 PM each evening, at 83–85–87 Tran Phu Street, Hai Chau Ward, Da Nang City.
The opening ceremony will take place at 6:30 PM on October 22, 2026, while the closing ceremony is scheduled for 11:00 PM on October 24, 2026.
Visitors can look forward to a diverse and exciting program of cultural, culinary, and entertainment activities, including:
- Traditional Beer Keg Tapping Ceremony: The symbolic opening ritual marking the official start of the festival.
- German Beer and Asian–European Culinary Feast: An opportunity to experience authentic German beer culture alongside a diverse selection of Asian and European cuisine.
- “Colors of Vietnam and Germany” Traditional Costume Showcase: A celebration of the traditional attire and cultural identities of both countries.
- Bavarian-Style Festivities: Lively activities inspired by the festive atmosphere and traditions of Bavaria, Germany.
- German Beer Challenge: An entertaining competition bringing excitement and friendly interaction to the festival.
- Lucky Draw and Prize-Giving Ceremony: Exciting opportunities for participants to win attractive prizes.
- Cultural and Musical Exchange Program – “Vietnam and Germany: Together Towards Integration and Development”: A series of performances featuring renowned singers and musicians from Vietnam and abroad.
With its vibrant festive atmosphere, rich cultural experiences, distinctive cuisine, and engaging entertainment, “Oktoberfest – The Heritage Train to Munich 2026” promises to deliver memorable experiences and a wide range of emotions for all participants.
DANANG TOURISM PROMOTION CENTER
Source information: Da Nang Union of Friendship Organizations (DAFO)
