Notre Dame Cathedral in Ho Chi Minh City: A dazzling LED display for Christmas nights.

In early December, Notre Dame Cathedral (Saigon Ward) became a visual focal point in Ho Chi Minh City: over 1,000 LED lights illuminated the cathedral from 6:45 PM to 11:00 PM each evening, expected to remain illuminated until January 5, 2026. This year's lighting system is more elaborate, creating a dazzling facade and a distinct Christmas atmosphere right in the heart of the city.

Father Ho Van Xuan, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Ho Chi Minh City, said that 2025 is a Jubilee Year of the Universal Catholic Church, so the decorations have been enhanced; the number of LED lights has doubled compared to the previous season. Symbolic motifs such as bells, stars, and Christmas trees make the space vibrant, with multiple layers of interwoven light.

Experience the vibrant nightlife in the heart of the city.

When the lights came on, crowds continuously flocked to admire the scene and take photos. Some likened the scene to Paris, amidst the chatter and the incessant clicking of cameras. Many passersby also stopped their vehicles on the roadside to take pictures. From groups of young friends to families and foreign tourists, everyone wanted to capture a vibrant moment at the end of the year.

Phan Trung Hieu and Le Nguyen Khanh Ngan shared that this was their second time returning to the church this season. Pham Tan Phat's family (from Binh Tri Dong ward) took the opportunity to bring their young children to take photos after seeing pictures of the decorations in newspapers and on social media. An international tourist staying nearby said they wanted to capture a special moment during their holiday in Vietnam. Khuu Quang Sang (from Binh Loi Trung ward), who brought his pet, simply said: "I want to keep this memory with my 'boss'."

In front of the cathedral, the marble statue of Our Lady of Peace stands out under hundreds of lights, creating a powerful visual focal point. The light streams down onto the tiled floor, illuminating each window and architectural detail, making the facade shimmer in the night.

Architecture and historical landmarks

Notre Dame Cathedral is one of Ho Chi Minh City's iconic landmarks and a familiar destination for international tourists. Construction began in 1877, designed by architect J. Bourard, and it was granted the title of Minor Basilica by the Vatican in 1959.

The cathedral is 60.5 meters tall; the cluster of zinc towers and bell towers accounts for more than half of its height, creating its characteristic upright form. After more than 130 years of use, the structure is currently fenced off for restoration. The restoration project, which began in 2017, includes many complex items, requires significant funding, has a long timeline, and is expected to be completed in 2027.

Practical information for your visit

• The lights will be on from 6:45 PM to 11:00 PM daily, expected to remain on until January 5, 2026 (according to Father Ho Van Xuan).
• This year's decorations feature over 1,000 LED lights, double the number from last season; with added bell, star, and Christmas tree motifs.
• Sightseeing context: crowded with people checking in, especially in the evenings at the beginning of the season; the brightly lit facade area is a major attraction.
• Status of the structure: many sections are undergoing restoration, and the area remains fenced off for conservation purposes.

Quick experience suggestions

• Choose a time after 6:45 PM when the lights are turned on to fully experience the Christmas atmosphere.
• Move around the facade area to admire the overall lighting and decorative details; taking photos with the statue of Our Lady of Peace as a striking backdrop.
• Remember that the lights will be turned off at 11 PM to plan your evening photoshoot accordingly.