Summary: (Last Modified: December 2025) Uncover the magic of the Lantern Festival of Vietnam 2026, especially in Hoi An, where glowing lanterns, traditional performances, and cultural rituals light up the streets. This blog explains the festival’s origins and tips for enjoying it as a visitor.
While exploring a new country, have you ever felt to pause and soak in the moment? Well, buckle up, with this blog – I am about to take you to one such experience while travelling to Vietnam. Now, we all know that Vietnam is a country full of cultural charm. Why not visit to experience one of its most magical traditions—the Lantern Festival? No, this isn’t some high-tech light show or a scene from a movie.
Imagine a serene evening sky lit by colourful lanterns floating along the river, casting their soft glow over the ancient streets. It is a magical sight and feels like an out-of-this-world experience. So settle in and let me share about a celebration that might inspire your next holiday. Are you ready to explore a world where ancient traditions create sheer magic?
Also Read: Top 5 Reasons Indian Tourists Love Traveling to Vietnam and Thailand
The Lantern Festival in Vietnam is an enchanting celebration of culture, light, and traditions. Rooted in Buddhist customs, it is a time when locals and tourists release glowing lanterns into the sky or onto rivers. It represents getting rid of worries and bringing in good luck. It happens every month in the ancient town of Hoi An – a UNESCO site.
The festival alters the ancient town into a magical place. It is not just about watching the lantern float – but the entire vibe of the city with aromas of local dishes, traditional music, and a strong feeling of joy and togetherness.
Lanterns in Vietnam symbolize hope, good fortune, and spiritual connection. Historically influenced by Chinese and Japanese trading communities, lantern lighting became an essential part of Hoi An’s cultural identity.
During the festival:
This deep cultural meaning makes the festival much more than just a visual spectacle.
If you wonder why you should attend the Lantern Festival – here are all the reasons for it.
The Lantern Festival in Hoi An is celebrated on the 14th day of every lunar month. It is the night of the fullest and brightest moon. But the most spectacular and the biggest celebration is on the first full moon after the Lunar New Year.
The Lantern Festival often starts around 1930 – 2000 hours. However, people start to gather in the Old Town area at sunset time. It is ideal to stroll, have a drink, and have dinner and then stay for the event to start. Arrive earlier to soak in the pre-festival buzz and secure a good spot.
From 2000 hours, all the shops and buildings in the area begin to turn off their lights to allow the glow from the lantern to light up the surroundings and create a magical radiance.
Well, the Lantern Festival is celebrated all over the country – but the POV is the Lantern Festival in Hoi An. The whole Ancient Town turns into a glowing show. The main spots are the banks of the Hoai River and the An Hoi Bridge.
Also Read: A Complete Travel Guide To Hoi An – Vietnam’s Most Charming Town
At the Lantern Festival, there is lots to see and do. Whether you like fun activities, watching cultural shows, or just taking in the sights, this festival has something special for everyone.
To fully enjoy the Lantern Festival, get ready and expect a lively atmosphere. A few simple tips can help you avoid crowds, stay comfortable, and make the most of your experience. Following these will ensure you have a memorable time at the festival.
Also Read: Perfect 7-Day Vietnam Itinerary for First-Time Visitors!
Tip: A tripod or night-mode camera works best for low-light shots.
Conclusion
As the last lanterns fade, you will realize that the Lantern Festival is not just an event; it is a memorable experience. It’s Vietnam at its most magical, a perfect blend of tradition and beauty. Whether you are travelling solo, as a couple, or with family, this is an experience you do not want to miss.
Want to experience this festival while exploring Vietnam? Ensure that your travel dates align with the Hoi An Lantern Festival. Our Vietnam travel packages offer the perfect itinerary to experience this magical festival and other interesting aspects of Vietnam. So, are you ready to see Vietnam in a whole new light?
Also Read: How to Plan A Budget Trip To Vietnam Under ₹60,000!
The Lantern Festival in Hoi An is held on the 14th day of each lunar month, so it will occur on specific full-moon dates throughout the year. For 2026, the key festival dates include: January 2, February 1, March 2, April 1, May 30, June 28, July 27, August 26, September 24, October 23, November 22, and December 22.
Yes — the most famous and iconic Lantern Festival experience is in Hoi An Ancient Town, where streets and the Hoai River are lit with thousands of lanterns.
The festival typically runs from around 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM, with the main lighting and lantern release taking place in the early evening.
There is no general admission ticket to walk around and enjoy the festival atmosphere. You pay only for optional items like floating lanterns, boat rides, food, or souvenirs.
The first full-moon festival after Lunar New Year (Tết) — usually February or March — is considered the most vibrant with cultural performances, crowds, and ceremonies, so plan early for this period.
While lanterns are visible in Hoi An year-round (the town is always decorated), the official festival experience — with electric lights off and ceremonial floating lanterns — happens only on the designated full-moon nights listed above.
Places inside or very close to Hoi An Ancient Town book out fast during full-moon nights, especially in early 2026. It’s best to book hotels 2–3 months in advance for peak dates.
Yes — besides lantern lighting and floating ceremonies, you’ll find traditional music (Bài Chòi), folk games, night markets, and local street food, which enrich the festival experience.
You can still experience lanterns and the magical ambiance in Hoi An any night, but the festival night is unique because electric lights go off and the full moon elevates the visual effect.
Yes. The festival is family-friendly, but due to crowds on full-moon nights, it’s recommended to arrive early and stay nearby so walking around is easier.
I graduated in commerce from Bombay University and run a family-owned business where we believe in transparency, trust, knowledge distribution and provide quality tours to our customers. According to me “Customers are our brand ambassadors and employees are our biggest Strength”. I also believe that “Travel brings knowledge, Knowledge brings opportunity and Opportunity brings prosperity”. With God’s grace was awarded the “Best Female Entrepreneur of India” by Tourism awards Gujarat. And currently, I am actively involved in key decisions and itinerary staff management in the travel industry.
