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Hoi An Lantern Festival
Hoi An Lantern Festival│A Galore of Lights and Colors in Vietnam
Have you ever seen entire streets dotted with colorful lanterns or candlelights swaying on the water? People celebrating together with glitters and joy, wearing traditional clothes and having fun? If that sounds like your way of celebrating life, tick Vietnam as your next holiday destination. Here you will witness the very popular Hoi An Lantern Festival as the perfect celebration for a happening holiday.
CONTENTS:
Hoi An Lantern Festival Dates 2024 and 2025
Why You Should Attend the Hoi An Lantern Festival?
You Will Experience the Vietnamese Culture
You Will Enjoy Breathtaking Views
You Can Witness Traditional Functions
It’s Perfect for All Travelers
Things to Do at Hoi An Lantern Festival
Visit Popular Attractions in Hoi An
Enjoy a Boat Ride on Thu Bon River
Take Part in Traditional Activities
Want to Experience the Hoi An Lantern Festival in Vietnam?
About Hoi An Lantern Festival
The Hoi An Lantern Festival is a monthly event held in the historic town of Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Every full moon, on the 14th day of the lunar calendar, the town's streets are lined with beautiful, handcrafted lanterns, and the entire old town is bathed in their warm, glowing light. You can see a spectacular display of lights in places like the Thu Bon River, its tributary Hoai River, Japanese Covered Bridge, and the Hoi Bridge.
The full moon is significant among Buddhists, as it is believed that Buddha was born and attained enlightenment on a full moon day. That's why the Hoi An Lantern Festival in Vietnam is not just a celebration of lights; it's a celebration of peace, prosperity, and good fortune. It's believed that lighting lanterns and floating them on the Hoai River brings good luck and prosperity.
Another interesting aspect of the Hoi An Lantern Festival is that locals consider this day auspicious for honoring ancestors and visiting family shrines.
If you are planning to visit Vietnam, make sure your trip is scheduled around the festival. It offers a unique opportunity to experience Vietnamese culture in its most beautiful and serene form.
Hoi An Lantern Festival Dates 2024 and 2025
Every year the schedule of Hoi An Lantern Festival changes as it’s celebrated according to the lunar calendar. Don’t worry as we bring you the tes when this festival is held in Hoi An Ancient Town. So you can plan your visit accordingly and not miss the amazing sky lantern festival in Vietnam.
Lantern Festival Hoi An 2024
In 2024, the Hoi An Lantern Festival will be held on the following dates:
|
Month |
Date |
Day |
|
January |
24 Jan |
Wednesday |
|
February |
23 Feb |
Friday |
|
March |
23 Mar |
Saturday |
|
April |
22 April |
Monday |
|
May |
21 May |
Tuesday |
|
June |
19 June |
Wednesday |
|
July |
19 July |
Friday |
|
August |
17 Aug |
Saturday |
|
September |
16 Sep |
Monday |
|
October |
16 Oct |
Wednesday |
|
November |
14 Nov |
Thursday |
|
December |
14 Dec |
Saturday |
Lantern Festival Hoi An 2025
In 2025, the Full Moon Festival in Hoi An will be held on the following dates.
|
Month |
Date |
Day |
|
January |
13 Jan |
Monday |
|
February |
11 Feb |
Tuesday |
|
March |
13 Mar |
Thursday |
|
April |
11 April |
Friday |
|
May |
11 May |
Sunday |
|
June |
9 June |
Monday |
|
July |
8 July |
Tuesday |
|
August |
7 Aug |
Thursday |
|
September |
5 Sep |
Friday |
|
October |
5 Oct |
Sunday |
|
November |
3 Nov |
Monday |
|
December |
3 Dec |
Wednesday |
Make sure you plan your visit around one of these dates to witness the magic firsthand and take a closer peek at Vietnam’s culture and festive vibrancy.
Why You Should Attend the Hoi An Lantern Festival?
The Sky Lantern Festival in Hoi An is among the most popular attractions in Vietnam, and there are many reasons for it. Here we bring you some on why you should include this enchanting event in your Vietnam itinerary.
You Will Experience the Vietnamese Culture
The Hoi An Lantern Festival is deeply rooted in Vietnamese tradition. It's a time when locals honor their ancestors and make wishes for good luck and happiness. By attending, you'll gain a deeper understanding of Vietnamese culture and customs.
You Will Enjoy Breathtaking Views
The sight of thousands of lanterns illuminating the ancient town of Hoi An is nothing short of breathtaking. The colorful lanterns create a magical atmosphere that feels like stepping into a fairytale. The reflection of lantern lights on the Thu Bon River adds an extra layer of enchantment to the scene.
You Can Witness Traditional Functions
During the festival, you can witness as well as partake in various traditional activities. Try your hand at making your own lantern, enjoy traditional Vietnamese music and dance performances, and savor local delicacies from street vendors. Don't miss the chance to release a lantern on the river and make a wish—a highlight of the festival.
It’s Perfect for All Travelers
Whether you're traveling solo, with a partner, or with family, the Hoi An Lantern Festival offers something for everyone. If you’re in Vietnam with your partner, you will find the festival's romantic ambiance perfect for a memorable evening. Or if you’re there will our family, get ready to enjoy the fun and educational activities, especially for kids.
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Things to Do at Hoi An Lantern Festival
The Sky Lantern Festival in Hoi An, Vietnam, is truly unique, and that’s why it has gained popularity worldwide. Many travelers visit Vietnam specifically to experience this captivating event, and it’s no exaggeration. There’s plenty to do while enjoying the festivities. Here are a few things you must do at the Full Moon Festival in Hoi An.
Try Out Local Food
One of the best things to do at the Hoi An Lantern Festival is to indulge in the local cuisine. The streets are lined with food stalls offering delicious Vietnamese dishes. Don’t miss trying Cao Lau, a local noodle dish, or Banh Mi, the famous Vietnamese sandwich.
Got a sweet tooth? Savor some local desserts like coconut pancakes or sesame balls. You must try the street food available in the markets. It’s a fantastic way to experience the flavors of Hoi An as well as indulge in its local culture.
Visit Popular Attractions in Hoi An
Hoi An is rich in history and culture, and the festival is the perfect time to visit its popular attractions. Explore the Japanese Covered Bridge, a beautiful symbol of Hoi An, or visit the ancient houses and museums that tell the story of this charming town. The Assembly Hall of the Fujian Chinese Congregation is another must-see—known for its intricate architecture and serene ambiance.
You should also make a trip through the Hoi An Night Market. Here you can shop for souvenirs and interact with local people as well. As you wander through the streets lit by countless lanterns, each glowing warmly, the magical setting will make discovering these attractions a truly unforgettable part of your visit.
Buy Handmade Lanterns
This is definitely one of the most memorable things to do in Hoi An. Buy a handmade flower lantern and release it in the Hoai River. With this, you can truly take part in the festival, and as the locals believe, it might even bring you some good fortune.
You can also buy and take these lanterns back home as a souvenir, bringing a piece of the Hoi An Lantern Festival with you. These lanterns, made of paper or silk, come in different shapes, sizes, and colors, making them perfect keepsakes. Visit the local markets and shops where artisans create these beautiful pieces right before your eyes.
Enjoy a Boat Ride on Thu Bon River
A boat ride on the Thu Bon River during the Hoi An Lantern Festival is a must-do, especially with your partner. As you glide along the river, you’ll be surrounded by the enchanting glow of countless lanterns floating on the water. The serene and picturesque setting offers a breathtaking view. It’s a perfect moment that’ll leave you with unforgettable memories.
Take Part in Traditional Activities
Participating in traditional activities is a highlight of the Hoi An Lantern Festival. Try your hand at making your own lanterns with the guidance of skilled artisans. Join in on folk games, or watch traditional music and dance performances that bring the culture of Hoi An to life. These activities are not only fun but also offer a deeper understanding of Vietnamese traditions and customs.
Capture Memorable Moments
Don’t forget to capture the beauty of the Hoi An Lantern Festival with your camera. The town’s streets and the Thu Bon River are illuminated by thousands of lanterns, creating stunning photo opportunities.
Take pictures of the glowing lanterns, the vibrant street scenes, and the joyful moments with locals and fellow travelers. These photos will be cherished memories of your magical time at the festival.
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Want to Experience the Hoi An Lantern Festival in Vietnam?
The Sky Lantern Festival in Hoi An, Vietnam, is a mesmerizing event that draws thousands of visitors each year. If you're planning a trip to Vietnam, make sure your travel dates align with this stunning festival. It offers a glimpse into Vietnam's rich culture and traditions, along with a memorable experience under a canopy of glowing lanterns.
Looking forward to visiting Vietnam? Book your Vietnam tour package today and get ready to experience the full splendor of the festival of lights and lanterns in Hoi An.