Vietnam is a country where traditions, spirituality and beauty come together in unforgettable ways, and one of the most enchanting examples is the Lantern Festival. Celebrated most vibrantly in the ancient town of Hoi An, this festival paints the streets, rivers and skies with thousands of glowing lanterns. It is a moment when locals pause to honour their ancestors, families gather to pray for good fortune, and visitors are invited to be part of something truly magical.
The Lantern Festival promises even more charm with riverfront ceremonies, traditional performances, bustling night markets and lantern-lit boat rides on the Thu Bon River. Whether you are a curious traveller or a seeker of peace, the festival allows you to experience Vietnam in its most spiritual and picturesque form.
Dates and Venues
- The Lantern Festival in Hoi An takes place every month during the full moon, but the grandest celebration in 2026 will be held in March, coinciding with the Lunar New Year festivities. The main venue
- is the Hoi An Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site where the old-world charm and colourful lanterns create an atmosphere straight out of a storybook.
- The festival is most alive around the Japanese Covered Bridge, Thu Bon River, and Nguyen Thai Hoc Street, where lanterns light up the surroundings and the air fills with music, chanting and joy.
Major Highlights of Lantern Festival in Vietnam
1. Thousand Lanterns on the Thu Bon River
The most iconic sight is the release of thousands of lanterns on the Thu Bon River. Visitors can buy a lantern, make a wish, and gently set it afloat, watching as the river glows with moving lights. It is a deeply symbolic act that brings hope and serenity.
2. Traditional Vietnamese Music and Dance
The streets of Hoi An come alive with traditional music, folk performances and lion dances. Local artists perform with passion, creating a festive yet soulful atmosphere that captures the spirit of Vietnam’s heritage.
3. Night Markets and Street Food
The Hoi An night market becomes a paradise during the festival. From handcrafted lanterns and souvenirs to sizzling Vietnamese street food, every corner is filled with colour, aroma and laughter. Trying local dishes like banh mi, cao lau noodles or sweet sesame desserts adds another layer of joy to the evening.
4. Lantern-Making Workshops
For travellers seeking hands-on experience, lantern-making workshops are a must. Local artisans guide you through the process, allowing you to create and carry your own lantern as a memory of this extraordinary festival.
5. Spiritual Offerings and Prayers
Locals gather at temples and pagodas to light incense, offer prayers and express gratitude. Visitors are welcome to observe or even join respectfully, making it a unique cultural and spiritual immersion.
How to Reach Hoi An for the Lantern Festival
Hoi An does not have its own airport or railway station, but it is easily accessible through nearby cities.
- By Air: The nearest airport is Da Nang International Airport, located about 30 kilometres from Hoi An. Da Nang is well connected with major cities across Asia. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a shuttle bus to Hoi An.
- By Train: The nearest railway station is also in Da Nang. Trains from Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City and other major destinations stop here. From Da Nang, a short road trip takes you directly into the heart of Hoi An.
- By Road: Buses, taxis and private cars are easily available from Da Nang, Hue and other nearby towns. Many travellers prefer hiring a motorbike for a more adventurous ride along the coastal roads.
Reaching Hoi An is part of the adventure, as the journey itself offers glimpses of Vietnam’s scenic countryside, coastal views and charming villages.
Conclusion
The Lantern Festival in Vietnam is more than an event, it is a beautiful blend of culture, spirituality and community spirit. Watching thousands of lanterns float across the river while music fills the night is an experience that stays in your heart long after the lights fade.
If you are planning a trip to Vietnam, make sure this festival is on your list. It is the perfect way to witness traditions, connect with locals and immerse yourself in the magic of Hoi An.
With Adotrip, planning your Vietnam holiday becomes effortless. From flights and hotels to curated travel experiences, we help you create journeys filled with memories. So, get ready to walk through glowing streets, release a lantern of your own, and let the Lantern Festival light up your travel story.
With us, nothing is far!
Frequently Asked Questions About Lantern Festival in Vietnam
Q1: When exactly is the Lantern Festival in 2026?
A1: The Lantern Festival in Hoi An is celebrated on the 15th day of the first lunar month, which follows the Vietnamese Lunar New Year. In 2026, it will fall in March. Exact dates may vary slightly depending on the lunar calendar.
Q2: Where is the best place to experience the Lantern Festival?
A2: Hoi An Ancient Town is the most famous location, especially along the Thu Bon River and historic streets like Nguyen Thai Hoc and the Japanese Covered Bridge. Hue and Hanoi also host celebrations, but Hoi An offers the most magical and immersive experience.
Q3: Can tourists participate in the lantern rituals?
A3: Yes! Visitors are encouraged to buy lanterns and release them on the river or hang them along the streets. It is a respectful and symbolic act where you can make a wish for good fortune and happiness.
Q4: Is the festival family-friendly?
A4: Families can enjoy the lantern displays, cultural performances, street food, and workshops. Children are often fascinated by the lanterns and can even join in creating their own lanterns at workshops.
Q5: How should I dress for the festival?
A5: Comfortable clothing and footwear are recommended, as you will be walking along streets and riverbanks. Since it takes place in the evening, a light jacket or shawl is useful, as nights in Hoi An can be cool.
Q6: Are there any tips for photography during the festival?
A6: Early evening is ideal for capturing the lanterns before it gets too crowded. Use a tripod or stabiliser for night shots, and try photographing the reflections of lanterns on the river for magical results.
Q7: How do I get to Hoi An for the festival?
A7: Hoi An is best reached via Da Nang International Airport, about 30 km away. Trains to Da Nang are also available from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, and from there you can take a taxi or bus. Roads are well connected if you prefer travelling by car or bus.
Q8: Are there other activities besides lanterns at the festival?
A8: Yes! You can enjoy traditional music and dance performances, visit temples and pagodas, explore night markets, and participate in lantern-making workshops. The festival offers a full cultural and spiritual immersion.
