As Christmas approaches, two Catholic churches in southern Vietnam - Song Vinh Church (Ho Chi Minh City) and Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church (Dong Nai Province) - are attracting large crowds with dazzling decorations. The star attractions? A light tunnel and a stalactite-themed nativity cave, both handcrafted with a mix of artistry and environmental mindfulness.

Dong Nai: A recycled wonder lights up Christmas spirit

In Thong Nhat Commune, Dong Nai province, a quiet rural road has transformed into a glowing corridor. Leading to the Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish, a tunnel-like nativity display stretches for tens of meters, mimicking natural rock formations and illuminated with waves of colorful light.

From the entrance, visitors are welcomed by a vibrant “Merry Christmas” sign above a light tunnel sculpted to resemble a winding cave. The walls, designed to look like rugged stone, are lined with thousands of shimmering lights in hues of blue, red, purple, and gold.

Suspended from the ceiling are handmade stalactite models, creating a surreal underground grotto experience. This isn’t just a visual treat - it’s become a favorite Christmas check-in spot, especially for families and young people seeking Instagram-worthy backdrops.

“I saw the photos online and came with my friends. It’s even more stunning in real life,” said Thanh An, a visitor from Gia Kiem. “At the end of the tunnel is a nativity scene depicting the birth of Jesus - it’s both magical and meaningful.”

What makes this installation special is its sustainable approach. Parishioners collected thousands of used plastic bags from local farms to construct the cave walls and festive displays. The entire project was community-built, blending craftsmanship with environmental awareness.

“We want visitors to not only admire the beauty but also reflect on the true meaning of Christmas,” said Father Dominic Tran Kim Quang, the parish priest. “By using recycled materials, we hope to inspire responsibility and gratitude.”

Ho Chi Minh City: Gothic beauty meets Christmas charm

Over in Tan Phuoc Ward, Ho Chi Minh City, Song Vinh Church has become another magnet for Christmas revelers. By nightfall, its Gothic-style façade, bell towers, and grounds are aglow with thousands of LED lights.

Viewed from above, the church glistens like a jewel along National Route 51, making it a striking landmark against the night sky.

Built over 11 years and completed recently, Song Vinh Church is part of the Ba Ria Diocese and sits on an 82-meter-long plot. The structure boasts twin bell towers soaring 55 meters, echoing classic European Gothic architecture.

Each evening from 6:30 PM, the church comes alive with Christmas-themed installations - simple yet elegant, emphasizing harmony between modern lighting and historical design.

Among the most popular spots is a “light tunnel” formed by arches draped in white, blue, and gold LED strands. Here, visitors stroll beneath the lights, taking in the warmth and magic of the season.

“The lighting is soft, not too harsh - perfect for evening walks and photos,” said Nguyen Thi Thu Hoai, a local from Vung Tau visiting with family. “It’s peaceful and beautiful.”

Despite large crowds, the atmosphere remains orderly and respectful, with visitors ranging from local Catholics to tourists from neighboring areas.

“This year’s decoration is subtle but stylish,” said Tran Minh Tuan, a tourist from Dong Nai. “There are beautiful photo angles everywhere, and the whole place feels like Christmas.”

Hoang Anh & Quang Hung