One Day Away From VPG Ho Chi Minh, Huge Turnout Brewing

Anticipation is high for the return of live poker in Ho Chi Minh City and making that happen is the Vietnam Poker Games (VPG) with the upcoming VPG Ho Chi Minh. Set to kick off on Friday, November 1, 2024 for an eleven-day run, host venue Saigon Poker Room has already been experiencing a tremendous surge in activity.

This week, players have been flocking in, gearing up for what is shaping up to be one of the most promising poker festivals of the year. To further emphasize the excitement and high interest, VPG recently announced that Early Bird Packages have sold out.

For those that missed out on those discounts, VPG has other promos and rewards to consider. Let’s have a look at these offerings along with a review of what’s in store and why this is a must-attend event. 

VPG Ho Chi Minh

In past years, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam was once a major hub for poker in Southeast Asia until games halted abruptly. Coming November 1-11, 2024, VPG Ho Chi Minh hopes to put it back on the poker map. This will be the first full scale poker festival in the city in over two years featuring an overall guarantee of VN₫ 25 Billion (~ US$ 984,000) and 35 trophy events. 

Main Event, Madness Kick Off, Mini Main

Out of the many games in the list, the most sought after title will be the Main Event which comes backed by a VN₫ 6 Billion (~US$ 237,000) guarantee. This mid-stakes tournament runs November 7-11, 2024 with four starting days. Buy in is an affordable VN₫ 16,500,000 (~US$ 650). 

Setting the tone for the festival is the Madness Kick Off featuring a VN₫ 2 Billion (~US$ 79,000) guarantee. Four entry flights are scheduled with buy in at VN₫ 5 Million (~US$ 200). With many players already onsite, this event is expected to pack the house. Players are advised to arrive early to avoid waiting for a seat. Event runs November 1-3, 2024. 

Also expected to draw a large crowd is the Mini Main VN₫ 2.5 Billion (~US$ 98,700) guaranteed. This is a great way to practice for the headliner as it shares the same structure with faster blinds. Event runs November 4-6, 2024 with three entry flights. Buy in is VN₫ 8,800,000 (~US$ 350). 

These key events are just a teaser. Be sure to dive into the Player Guide for the full lineup and all the details.

VPG Ho Chi Minh – Player Guide

Freeroll To Kick Off And Main Event

On opening day, players have two reasons to get up early, the Freeroll To Kick Off and Main Event! Only the first 150 players will be accommodated. At absolutely no cost to the wallet, the winner will be awarded a ticket to the Kick Off and to the Main Event. Cards in the air at 10am on November 1, 2024.

VPG Championship Pass

One week ago, the VPG Championship Pass was unveiled as a prize for the Main Event champion. This exclusive ticket grants the winner entry into the VPG Championship, where Main Event champions will compete for the prestigious title of ultimate VPG champion. This event is exclusively for champions, offering free entry for their achievement. The prize pool and event date are still to be announced.

High Roller Lineup

The schedule also features a total of eleven high roller events with buy ins ranging from VN₫ 11 Million (~US$ 435) to VN₫ 66 Million (~US$ 2,600). The first on the plate is the High Roller Open VN₫ 1.5 Billion (~US$ 59,000) guaranteed which runs on opening day. Be the first to secure a high roller title. Buy in is VN₫ 22 Million (~US$ 870). 

Livestream Schedule

Players, fans, spectators near and far can also keep tabs on the festival’s prime events via the livestream which will be broadcasted on the VPG Facebook page.

Flight Promo

To support players traveling by air to the festival, VPG extends a grand gesture with a special promotion to help offset travel costs. Players need only present their boarding pass, and will instantly receive a VN₫ 1,000,000 (~US$ 40) deduction from their tournament registration fee.

Tourist / Travel Tips

One of the reasons for poker at an all-time high in Asia is the added influx of international players from all over the world. For first timers to Ho Chi Minh City, most often called Saigon, this is the most lively city in Vietnam. So lively that it barely sleeps. While there are plenty of sites to visit that includes the old Post Office, Notre Dame Cathedral, and Ben Thanh Market, the true charm lies in exploring the alleyways and old buildings where the coolest coffeeshops, restaurants, boutique shops, and bars are hidden. For food lovers, it is a paradise for the tummy especially with amazing street food stalls scattered all over the city.

Traveling to Ho Chi Minh City should be a breeze for every traveler as the airport is a major port in the country. Once landed, book a Grab car to take you to your destination. Rates are set and reasonable. To get around the city, the best way is by Grab Motorbike. 

This time of year, the weather is fairly decent in the city however it does rain occasionally. Travelers are advised to prepare accordingly. As for currency, make sure to have the local Vietnamese Dong on hand as it is the only currency accepted. There are money-changers at the airport however for the best rates, Ha Tam Jewelry outside of Ben Thanh Market usually offers close to actual rate.

VPG Ho Chi Minh – Player Guide