Picture this: thousands of glowing lanterns floating in the sky or gently drifting down a river, illuminating the night like tiny fireflies carrying people’s hopes and dreams. No, this isn’t a scene from a Disney movie—this is the Lantern Festival in Vietnam, and it’s every bit as magical as it sounds.
Whether you’re a hopeless romantic, a culture enthusiast, or just someone who likes shiny things, this festival is something you have to experience. So, let’s dive into what makes the Lantern Festival in Vietnam so unforgettable!
Hoi An’s Legendary Lantern Festival
First things first: if you’re looking for the most famous Lantern Festival in Vietnam, you’re heading to Hoi An. Every month on the 14th day of the lunar calendar, the ancient town goes lights out—literally. Streetlights and neon signs are dimmed, leaving the warm glow of thousands of silk lanterns to illuminate the UNESCO-listed streets. It’s like stepping into a fairytale (minus the evil witches, but plus a lot of delicious street food).
The best part? You can buy a paper lantern, make a wish, and set it afloat on the Thu Bon River. Legend has it, the lanterns carry your wishes into the universe, and if they come true, you owe Vietnam another visit (okay, I made that last part up, but you will want to come back).
A Feast for the Eyes (and the Stomach)
No festival in Vietnam is complete without food, and the Lantern Festival is no exception. The streets of Hoi An come alive with vendors selling everything from bánh mì to cơm gà Hội An (Hoi An chicken rice). And of course, there’s mì Quảng, a must-try noodle dish that will have you slurping in pure happiness.
For dessert? Try bánh đậu xanh (mung bean cakes) or chè, a sweet and colorful Vietnamese dessert soup that’s as fun to eat as it is to look at.
Cultural Performances & Lantern-Making Fun
Besides launching your own lantern, you can also watch lion dances, traditional folk music, and even take part in a lantern-making workshop. Spoiler alert: it’s harder than it looks, but it’s a fantastic way to get hands-on with Vietnamese culture.
You’ll also see locals playing Bài Chòi, a traditional Vietnamese card game that’s part bingo, part singing contest. Even if you don’t understand a word, the energy and laughter are contagious.
Other Places to See the Lantern Festival
Hoi An might be the star of the show, but other parts of Vietnam also celebrate the Lantern Festival in their own way.
- Hanoi: The capital lights up with lanterns during the Mid-Autumn Festival, especially around Hoan Kiem Lake.
- Hue: The Imperial City hosts traditional lantern displays near its ancient temples.
- Ho Chi Minh City: The Chinatown district, Chợ Lớn, becomes a sea of glowing lanterns during the festival season.
Why You Can’t Miss This Festival
The Lantern Festival in Vietnam isn’t just about beautiful lights—it’s about hope, love, and new beginnings. Whether you’re making a wish on a river, enjoying street performances, or just soaking up the magical atmosphere, this is an experience that stays with you long after the lanterns have faded.
So, what are you waiting for?
👉 Book your Vietnam adventure today at Vietnam Packages Tour and be part of one of the most breathtaking festivals in the world!
Trust me, your Instagram (and your soul) will thank you. ✨
