The Hoi An Full Moon Festival, held monthly, celebrates the town’s history and culture. With lanterns illuminating the streets and floating on the river, it is a captivating experience. Plan your Vietnam trip around this magical event.
Held in Hoi An, this festival happens every month on the full moon night. But don’t worry, it’s not just about lanterns; it’s a mix of history, culture, and good vibes. This festival dates back to the 16th century when Hoi An was a busy trading port. Traders and locals started lighting lanterns as a way to honor their ancestors and bring in good luck.
Over time, it became a mesmerizing spectacle, attracting thousands of travelers. The festival’s beauty lies in the beautifully lit streets, traditional music, and the peaceful sight of lanterns floating on the Thu Bon River. If you’re booking Vietnam tour packages, make sure you plan your trip during this festival.
How Vietnam’s Lantern Festival is Celebrated:
- Glowing Lanterns on the River – Release a lantern with a wish and watch it float away, carrying your dreams (and maybe your bad luck) with it!
- Ancient Town Without Electricity – For one night, Hoi An switches off its streetlights, and the entire town glows in warm lantern light—no power cuts, just pure magic!
- Street Performances – Watch traditional Vietnamese dances, folk music, and even a dramatic lion dance that gets the crowd cheering.
- Candlelit Boat Rides – Hop onto a wooden boat and sail through a sea of lanterns on the Thu Bon River. It’s romantic, even if you’re single!
- Local Street Food – Try Vietnamese delicacies like Banh Mi, Cao Lau noodles, and sweet sesame candies as you stroll through the festival streets.
- Paper Lotus Offerings – People light paper lotuses and set them afloat as a sign of good fortune and respect to their ancestors.
- Night Market Shopping – Grab souvenirs, handmade lanterns, and even traditional silk garments at the bustling Hoi An Night Market.
- Temple Visits – Temples hold special ceremonies where monks chant and people offer prayers for health and happiness.
Timings and Entry Fee for Lantern Festival in Vietnam:
- Timings: The festival takes place every full moon night, from sunset to around 10 PM. The best time to visit is between 7 pm and 9 pm when the town is fully illuminated.
- Entry Fee: Entry to Hoi An Ancient Town costs INR 500 per person. Releasing a lantern on the river costs around INR 100-150.
- Boat Rides: A candlelit boat ride on the Thu Bon River costs INR 300-600, depending on the duration.
Travel Tips / Essential Information for Lantern Festival in Vietnam:
- Best Time to Visit: October to April is ideal as the weather is pleasant, and the monsoons won’t rain on your parade.
- Where to Stay: Choose a hotel near Hoi An Ancient Town for easy access. Many budget stays offer stunning river views.
- What to Wear: Comfortable cotton clothes and good walking shoes—you’ll be strolling a lot! Avoid heels unless you’re auditioning for a balancing act.
- Food to Try: Don’t miss Banh Mi, Vietnamese Pho, and coconut ice cream. Your taste buds will thank you!
- Photography Tip: Bring a good camera or a phone with night mode to capture the glowing beauty of the lanterns.
- How to Get There: Hoi An doesn’t have an airport. Fly into Da Nang International Airport and take a 45-minute cab ride (costs around INR 1,200-1,500).
- Cultural Etiquette: Be respectful in temples—cover your shoulders and avoid loud chatter.
Safety First: Hoi An is safe, but watch your belongings in crowded areas.
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Also Read: Things to do in Vietnam
