Vietnam’s 7 most spectacular festivals
From impressive processions and luminous light displays, to vibrant street-art performances and blessing the souls of the dead – these are the festivals you must attend in Vietnam
1. Hoi An Lantern Festival
Boasting magnificent architecture and riverside settings, Hoi An’s ancient town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site on Vietnam’s central coast. Every month, when the full moon shines, fluorescent lights are switched off, roads are closed to traffic and the streets are illuminated with thousands of colourful lanterns. Join in with the festivities: full of old-fashioned games, delicious food and tuneful music.
When? Throughout the year
2. Chu Dong Tu Festival
Named after one of four immortal gods in the Vietnamese pantheon, the festival takes place in Chu Dong Tu Temple in Da Hoa and Da Trach, near Vietnam’s capital, Hanoi. A dragon procession, martial arts competition, powerful lion dances and soulful Cheo (traditional music) performances commemorate Saint Chu Dong Tu, who introduced the practice of agriculture into Vietnamese society.
When? 10-12 March
3. Thay Pagoda Festival
A celebration of Buddhist monk Tu Dao Hanh’s life in Quoc Oai (just below Hanoi), with water puppetry performances and a procession of monks from Thay Pagoda. During his life, Tu Dao Hanh made many advances in medicine and religion, and invented the Vietnamese water puppet show.
When? 11-13 April
4. Hue Festival
The biennial cultural event honours the social values of Vietnam’s former capital city, Hue (Hanoi became the capital of Vietnam in 1976 after the North’s victory in the Vietnam War). Enjoy the wide variety of poetry, exciting street art performances, colourful exhibitions, drum and percussion concerts, and historical films.
When? 29 April-3 May
