Hoi An Lantern Festival: The Most Magical Night in the Ancient Town
The Hoi An Lantern Festival is one of Vietnam’s most enchanting cultural traditions. As night falls, thousands of lanterns light up Hoi An Ancient Town, turning the riverside into a scene of color. Let’s discover how to enjoy this unforgettable festival and make the most of your trip.
1. What Is the Hoi An Lantern Festival?
The Hoi An Lantern Festival is held on the 14th day of the lunar month when the moon is at its fullest and brightest. The tradition began in the late 16th century, when Hoi An was a busy trading port and lanterns were introduced by Japanese and Chinese merchants. Over time, lighting lanterns on the full moon became a local custom, symbolizing peace, luck, and family reunion.
On this evening, electric lights are limited, and the town is lit by colorful lanterns hanging in front of houses, shops, and across the streets. Many visitors also join locals to light small paper lanterns and place them on the river, making wishes for good health and happiness.
A magical night in Hoi An, where lanterns turn the town into a dream.
Simple but special, this Festival has become one of the most famous events in Hoi An. For travelers wondering “Is the Lantern Festival in Hoi An worth it?”, the answer is yes, it is the night when the Old Town shows its most iconic and memorable beauty.
2. When Is the Hoi An Lantern Festival in Hoi An?
The Hoi An Lantern Festival is held once a month on the 14th day of the lunar calendar, the night before the full moon. This is considered the brightest and most beautiful moon phase, making it the perfect time for celebration.
The festival usually starts around 6:00 pm, as the sun sets and the lanterns are lit. The most lively time is between 8:00 pm and 9:00 pm, when the streets are crowded, the Hoai River fills with floating lanterns, and cultural activities take place. By 10:00 pm, the event slowly winds down.
the Lantern Festival happens every full moon in Hoi An.
3. Best Experience The Hoi An Lantern Festival
3.1. Take a boat ride on the Hoai River
A highlight of the festival is taking a short boat ride along the Hoai River. For a small fee, locals will row you across the water where you can see hundreds of lanterns reflecting on the surface. During the ride, you can also release a flower lantern onto the river.
Many people light a candle, make a wish, and gently place the lantern on the water. Watching the small lights float together is one of the most memorable moments of the Hoi An Lantern Festival.
Glide along the Hoai River for the best lantern views.
3.2. Join a Lantern-Making Workshop
Another way to enjoy the festival is to try making a lantern yourself. In Hoi An Ancient Town, there are small family-run shops where you can sit down, choose the frame and fabric, and learn each step of the process. At the end, you will have your own colorful lantern to take home as a reminder of your trip.
Turn colorful silk into your very own lantern souvenir.
3.3. Try local food at night markets
The Lantern Festival is also a great time to taste Hoi An cuisine. As you walk through the night market, you’ll find plenty of street food stalls with local favorites. You should try cao lau (Hoi An noodles), banh mi, grilled skewers, or sweet soups like “che”. The food is inexpensive, delicious, and adds even more flavor to the festive night.
Quang noodle
3.4. Take Part in Many Traditional Activities
Besides lanterns, the festival also features many traditional activities around the Ancient Town. You can watch folk games like bài chòi (a form of traditional singing bingo), listen to live music, or join small cultural performances along the streets. These activities bring visitors closer to local life and make the night even more lively.
4. Tips to Make the Most of the Festival
- Wear comfortable footwear: You’ll walk a lot around the Ancient Town and along the river, so good shoes make a big difference.
- Choose the right season: The festival happens every month, but if you travel in the festive season like Christmas or year-end, you can enjoy fewer crowds and better hotel deals, making it a smart time for luxury on budget.
- Arrive early: Come before 6:00 pm to enjoy the sunset and dinner before the lanterns light up.
- Join the locals: Take part in activities like releasing flower lanterns, playing traditional games, or watching folk performances for a more authentic experience.
- Plan ahead for crowds: The Ancient Town can still get busy on weekends or public holidays, so booking accommodation and boat rides in advance is a good idea.
To make your visit even more memorable, many travelers choose to stay at Victoria Hoi An Beach Resort & Spa. Located on beautiful Cua Dai Beach, just 10 minutes from the Ancient Town, the resort blends Indochine-inspired design with modern comfort.
Guests can enjoy stylish rooms with garden or ocean views, a beachfront pool, luxury spa and wellness services, as well as international and Vietnamese dining options. It is the perfect base for exploring Hoi An’s attractions while experiencing authentic boutique hospitality.
Victoria Hoi An Beach Resort & Spa
Visiting during the right season can make your trip even more special with fewer crowds and better rates for boutique hotels, spa packages, and dining. Discover how in our Hoi An Travel Guide: Experience Affordable Luxury and start planning a trip that feels both indulgent and smart.
The Hoi An Lantern Festival is not just about lights. It’s a chance to enjoy the beauty of the Ancient Town at night and feel its calm atmosphere. You can join by releasing a lantern, walking along the quiet streets, or just watching the town glow, a memory that will stay with you for a long time.
Ready to discover the charm of Hoi An? Partner with us or send a booking enquiry today, and start planning your trip to see the scenery that makes unforgettable.
