As one of the variety of interesting cultural activities on the sidelines of the Da Nang International Fireworks Festival 2017, a parade of eye-catching flower-decorated vehicles representing the 8 participating countries, along with ones from Da Nang, took place in the city last Friday.

The vehicles were decorated with the countries’ symbols such as the Elizabeth Tower, the Tower Bridge, the Thames River, a double-decker bus for the UK, and sakura flower and Torii gate for Japan.  Meanwhile, a vehicle representing for Switzerland featured its special instrument called ‘Alphorn’, whilst that of China boasted its special own symbol of Great Wall.

The parade started at the Sun World Danang Wonders (Asia Park), and passed along many major local streets. 

Unlike any parades which have been held in the city before, the parade stopped at 12 local venues to ensure the close interactions between festival-goers and 150 domestic and foreign performers on the mobile stages.  The stop venues included the 2 September Peace Monument, a park opposite the Novotel Danang Premier on Bach Dang, an intersection of Tran Hung Dao and Nguyen Cong Tru, and an area near the beautiful Bridge of Love nearby the 'Carp Turns into a Dragon' statue.

Similar events will take place along certain inner-city streets every Friday and Saturday (excepting for fireworks display nights) until 23 June.

Here are some photos of the parade, taken by our reporter Ngoc Ha.

The vehicle of Da Nang featured the re-creation of the city’s Rong (Dragon) Bridge, and on board were some beautiful local ladies in ‘ao dai’ (Vietnamese traditional long dress)

Domestic and foreign artistes taking photos with locals and visitors

Some foreign performers recording their memorable moments at the parade

A section of Bach Dang crowded with locals and visitors

Foreign artistes treating audience members to a fascinating drum performance

An exciting lion dance