Vietnam is like a colorful painting come to life, filled with festivals that show off its rich culture. From the busy excitement of Tet to the glowing lanterns of the Mid-Autumn Festival, these celebrations are like open doors inviting travelers to experience Vietnam’s heart.
Tet Nguyen Dan (Lunar New Year)
Think of Tet as Vietnam’s biggest family reunion mixed with a giant birthday party for the new year. Falling in late January or February, it’s like spring knocking on the door. Streets dress up in bright colors, families make special rice cakes called banh chung, and cities like Hanoi explode with fireworks and parades like a dragon waking up.
Mid-Autumn Festival
Picture a night when the moon is the spotlight and children are the stars. Around September, lanterns bob like fireflies, mooncakes sweeten the air, and lion dances bounce through the streets. Hoi An turns into a fairy tale with lanterns floating like stars that fell to earth.
Hue Festival
Every two years, Hue rolls out the royal carpet to its past. It’s like a time machine showing off Vietnam’s imperial glory through plays, art shows, and games. Mark your calendars for April 2024 when the next show begins.
Lim Festival
Up in Bac Ninh province, the Lim Festival is like a giant concert for Quan Ho folk singing – so special UNESCO gave it a gold star. In the first lunar month, performers in traditional outfits turn the festival into a living rainbow of music.
Whale Festival
Down by the sea in places like Phan Thiet, fishermen throw a thank-you party for the ocean. Around March or April, they honor the sea god with parades and temple ceremonies, hoping for safe voyages and nets full of fish.
Perfume Pagoda Festival
From January to March, the Perfume Pagoda becomes a spiritual hiking adventure. Visitors ride boats and climb through stunning mountains like nature’s staircase to reach this sacred spot near Hanoi.
These festivals are like keys unlocking Vietnam’s traditions. Ready for more? Visit Journey Vietnam or check out @JourneyVietnam on YouTube.