Hoi An Lantern Festival – Where is it and 6 useful tips

I – What is Hoi An Lantern Festival and When It Takes Place?

The Hoi An Lantern Festival, also known as the “Full Moon Festival,” is a magical event celebrated in the historic town of Hoi An, Vietnam. This enchanting festival coincides with the full moon each month, a day believed to bring prosperity and spiritual fulfillment in Vietnamese culture. Visitors can track the dates of the festival using the lunar calendar. During the festival, the streets of Hoi An are illuminated by hundreds of colorful lanterns, creating a mesmerizing and romantic atmosphere.

In 2025 and 2026, the festival will occur on the following dates:

Hoi An Lantern Festival 2025 Dates

Hoi An Lantern Festival 2026 Dates

Each full moon brings a unique charm, making the festival a must-visit event in Vietnam.

II – Where Can You Enjoy the Lantern Festival in Hoi An?

The heart of the Hoi An Lantern Festival is the Old Town, particularly around the Thu Bon River. The central location, highlighted by landmarks such as An Hoi Bridge, serves as the hub for all festival activities. As you step into the Old Town, you’ll find it transformed into a dreamy landscape of glowing lanterns and vibrant decorations.

The festival’s compact area ensures that everything is within walking distance. From riverside stalls to cozy cafes, you can immerse yourself in the festival’s charm as you stroll through the narrow streets of the Old Town. The calm reflections of the lanterns on the water add to the magical experience, creating a picture-perfect setting for visitors.

III – What Do People Do on the Lantern Festival?

The Hoi An Lantern Festival revolves around meaningful traditions and captivating performances, including:

• Turning Off the Lights and Lighting Lanterns: Locals turn off all electric lights and light colorful lanterns to illuminate the town.
• Worship Rituals at Family Altars: Families honor their ancestors by presenting offerings and prayers.
• Mid-Autumn Festival Highlights: On special occasions like the Mid-Autumn Festival, visitors can witness vibrant lion dance performances in the Old Town.

IV – 4 Activities to Fully Enjoy the Lantern Festival

1. Admire the Beauty of Thu Bon River at Night
   The river becomes a glowing tapestry of lanterns floating on its surface. Strolling along its banks or enjoying the view from a riverside café offers a tranquil experience.
2. Take a Boat Trip and Release a Lantern
   For a more immersive experience, hop onto a small boat and release a lantern into the river. This symbolic gesture is believed to bring good luck and happiness.
3. Participate in Mini Games in the Old Town
   The Old Town hosts traditional games like Bai Choi (a type of bingo with singing) during the festival. Engaging in these activities allows you to connect with the local culture.
4. Observe Worship Rituals
   Witnessing families perform ancestral worship rituals provides a deeper understanding of Vietnamese spirituality and traditions. The combination of incense, offerings, and lanterns creates an unforgettable scene.

V – Common Questions

1. Can I Still See Lanterns Without the Lantern Festival?

Yes, the Old Town is adorned with lanterns year-round. While the festival amplifies the charm with special rituals and performances, you can still enjoy boat rides and lantern releases on non-festival days.

2. What Happens If It Rains?

Rain can dampen some outdoor activities like boat rides and lantern releases. However, the Old Town retains its beauty in the rain, with cozy shops and cafes providing shelter while you enjoy the view.

3. Should I Book a Boat Ride in Advance?

Absolutely. During the festival, the Old Town is crowded, and the boat ride areas are especially busy. Booking in advance ensures a hassle-free experience. You’ll avoid street vendors offering inconsistent services and enjoy a smoother process with a pre-arranged meeting point and a guaranteed route.

4. Common Scams for Boat Rides

• False Advertising: Some sellers misrepresent their routes or services, leading to disappointing experiences.
• Overcharging for Rides: Prices may be inflated if you’re unaware of the standard costs.
• Overpriced Lanterns: Mini lanterns typically cost 5,000–10,000 VND, but some vendors charge significantly more.

5. How Much Does a Lantern Cost?

The mini lanterns used for river releases are quite affordable, ranging from 5,000 to 10,000 VND.

6. Is It Environmentally Friendly to Release Lanterns on the River?

Yes and no. The city makes efforts to clean the river each night. However, strong currents may carry lanterns away, causing occasional environmental concerns. Visitors are encouraged to use eco-friendly lanterns.

VI – Outbound Links

• Explore More Festivals in Vietnam
• Hoi An Old Town Official Travel Guide
• Eco-Friendly Travel Tips for Hoi An

This comprehensive guide to the Hoi An Lantern Festival offers insights into its traditions, activities, and practical tips to ensure you have an unforgettable experience in this historic town. Whether you’re visiting during the festival or another time, Hoi An promises a magical journey illuminated by its iconic lanterns.

From Vincent – the Author

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