Hoi An Lantern Festival

Hoi An lantern festival: The MOST brilliant time of the ancient town Hoi An lantern festival, held on the 14th day of the lunar month, is a distinct feature of Hoi An.This is also an opportunity for tourists from all over the world to come and admire the unique beauty of the ancient town.

Hoi An lantern festival is a special event that attracts not only foreign tourists but also Vietnameses locals, who come to see a more alluring Hoi An when the town is lit up with colorful lanterns. This is a one-of-a-kind experience that travelers should not miss out on in their Hoi An itinerary.

1. When is Hoi An lantern festival held?

Hoi An lantern festival is held on the 14th day of the lunar month, when the moon is at its fullest and brightest, from 6 pm to around 10 pm. Many people choose to arrive early, often before 6 pm, to enjoy the sunset and dinner before the glimmering colorful lanterns steal the show. The festival is celebrated in and around the ancient town, particularly in areas near Hoai River, Japanese Covered Bridge, and Hoi Bridge. On this night, Hoi An Ancient Town becomes beautiful in the magical light of lanterns.

2. What to learn about the origin of Hoi An lantern festival?

Hoi An lantern festival dates back to the 16th and 17th centuries, when Hoi An was a bustling trading post. The Chinese and Japanese who settled in Hoi An brought lanterns and hung them in front of their door as a reminder of their homelands.

As time went by, lantern making became a staple of family businesses, festivities, and celebrations. Vietnamese locals began to hang lanterns out as well, in hopes of bringing good fortune and happiness. The colorful lanterns have eventually been considered a symbol of Hoi An. Around 1988, local authorities made a decision to organize the lantern festival on the full moon day of every month. In particular, residents are encouraged to replace electrical lights with the warm glow of lanterns. Since then, the festival has become one of the most anticipated events for locals and tourists.

3. How does Hoi An Lantern Festival take place?

On the day of the festival, from around 5 pm to 10 pm, all the vehicles in the town are temporarily stopped. Meanwhile, all the houses, restaurants, and cafes turn off their electric lights. The whole neighborhood is bathed in the light of the full moon and thousands of lanterns, creating a magical glow.

Coming here at this time, you can freely wander around and soak in the peaceful ambiance. This is also the perfect time to enjoy many impressive performances, which are held along the river with music or poetry recitals. Additionally, there are many traditional activities organized, such as folk games. At Hoi An lantern festival, you can not only feast your eyes but also delight your taste buds. A variety of mouth-watering street foods are waiting for you to try.