Vietnam is a country brimming with cultural richness, and one of the best ways to experience its vibrant traditions is by participating in the country’s numerous traditional festivals. These festive occasions offer a unique opportunity to delve into Vietnam’s myths and customs. With so many events taking place throughout the year, it can be overwhelming to decide which ones to attend. To help you make the most of your visit, we have compiled a list of Vietnam’s most popular festivals along with some useful travel tips.
Tet Holiday: A Celebration of Family Reunions
Tet holiday, also known as Lunar New Year, is undoubtedly the most significant festival of the year in Vietnam. It is a time for family reunions and traditional rituals. Tet falls on the first night of the new moon in the first lunar month, which usually occurs between the last week of January and the third week of February in the Gregorian calendar.
During Tet, various special customs are observed, including cleaning and decorating homes, buying salt at the beginning of the year, giving lucky money to children and elders, and visiting pagodas. While Tet is a religious celebration, it is more of an intimate affair than a wild party.
If you plan to start your journey in Vietnam during Tet, there are some important things to keep in mind. Firstly, be aware that all shops and stores are typically closed until the third day of Lunar New Year, so it’s essential to plan your activities accordingly. Additionally, it is advisable to book flights, hotels, and services to popular attractions well in advance to avoid overcrowding. Lastly, be mindful when bargaining, as vendors believe that excessive haggling at the beginning of the year brings bad luck to their business. It’s better to ask for small discounts than to push for significant reductions.
New Year: An International Celebration in Vietnam
Different from the traditional festivals, New Year in Vietnam is celebrated to mark the transition between the old and the upcoming year in the Gregorian calendar. With the widespread adoption of the solar calendar, New Year has become one of the most important festivals in Vietnam, second only to Tet Holiday.
During New Year, the atmosphere in Vietnam is electrifying, with numerous street performances, grand firework displays, music shows, and countdown programs taking place across the country. The most dynamic celebrations can be found in big cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, particularly around Hoan Kiem Lake in Hanoi and District 1 in Ho Chi Minh City.
To fully immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere, head to event venues, bars, or nightlife spots, where you can enjoy great cocktails while waiting for the New Year countdown. However, as a tourist, it is important to pay attention to your personal belongings and avoid crowded areas.
Full Moon Festival: A Magical Harvest Celebration
The Full Moon Festival, also known as the Mid-Autumn Festival or ‘Tet Trung Thu’ in Vietnamese, is celebrated on the 14th and 15th of the August lunar month. This important harvest festival is not only observed in Vietnam but also in other countries with a significant rice-growing tradition, such as China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Japan, and Korea.
The Full Moon Festival provides an opportunity for families to come together and engage in various activities. These activities include children carrying paper lanterns, lion dances, altar setups during the festival night, and food booths selling moon cakes, sticky rice, fruits, and sweets.
For an enchanting Full Moon Festival experience, head to places like Hoi An, where you can stroll along the Thu Bon Riverside, admiring colorful paper lanterns floating in the night sky. In Hanoi, it is highly recommended to visit Thang Long Royal Citadel, My Dinh National Stadium, West Lake, or Hoan Kiem Lake to immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere, enjoying the celebrations in a safe and peaceful environment.
Hung King Memorial Festival: Honoring Vietnam’s First King
The annual Hung King Memorial Festival, hosted by the northern province of Phu Tho, commemorates King Duong Vuong, the first king of Vietnam. The festival takes place between the 6th and 10th day of the third lunar month, and it includes various ceremonies and entertaining activities.
The main worship event occurs at the Hung Temple, located atop Nghia Linh Mountain, to pay respect to the Hung Kings and commemorate National Father Lac Long Quan and National Mother Au Co. Additionally, a flower ceremony is held at Den Thuong (Upper Temple), where the Hung Kings used to worship deities during their reign. Visitors can also enjoy vocal folk activities, exhibitions, cake-making contests, sport tournaments, and folk games that showcase the local culture.
To make the most of your experience at the Hung King Memorial Festival, it is advisable to wear appropriate clothes and shoes, as many temples and pagodas are situated atop hills and mountains. Bringing your own food and water is recommended, as purchasing necessities outside might be challenging. Lastly, it is important to keep your personal and valuable items secure, as large gatherings may attract opportunistic thieves.
Experience the Vibrant Traditions of Vietnam!
Vietnam’s festivals offer a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in the country’s rich culture and traditions. With Tet Holiday, New Year celebrations, the Full Moon Festival, and the Hung King Memorial Festival, you can witness the diversity and vibrancy of Vietnam’s cultural heritage.
To make the most of your festival experience in Vietnam, it is crucial to plan ahead, book accommodations and attractions in advance, and be mindful of local customs. By immersing yourself in these vibrant celebrations, you will gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of Vietnam’s myths and customs. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable journey into Vietnam’s festival scene!