The Hoi An Lantern Festival turns the town into a magical wonderland every month on the 14th day of the lunar calendar. The festival kicks off in the evening around 6 PM and continues until late night, when Hoi An Old Town and the Thu Bon River glow with thousands of colorful lanterns. Visitors can release candle-lit lanterns for good luck, enjoy traditional music, dance performance and enjoy vibrant night markets.
Planning your visit is easier with curated Vietnam tour packages that combine Hoi An with nearby destinations like Da Nang, Phu Quoc and the countryside villages, ensuring you experience the festival fully without missing a beat. But, if you are chasing glowing lanterns, cultural insights, or serene river reflections, the Hoi An Lantern Festival Vietnam is an unforgettable highlight of any Vietnam travel itinerary.
What is Hoi An Vietnam Lantern Festival?
The Hoi An Lantern Festival Vietnam, also known as the Hoi An Full Moon Lantern Festival, is a monthly cultural event in Hoi An, Vietnam, where the town celebrates the full moon by illuminating streets, rivers and homes with thousands of colorful lanterns. Unlike ordinary festivals, electricity in the Ancient Town is switched off, allowing the soft glow of lanterns to create a magical, almost dreamlike atmosphere.
Rooted in centuries-old tradition, the festival is a way for locals to honor ancestors, bring good luck, and celebrate community. Visitors can watch paper lanterns floating on the Thu Bon River, release their own lanterns with personal wishes, and enjoy performances, traditional music, and vibrant street markets.
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Hoi An Lantern Festival Dates 2026
These are the Lantern festival Hoi An dates that you should know for 2026.
- January: 2nd Jan, 2026
- February: 1st Feb, 2026
- March: 2nd March, 2026
- April: 1st April, 2026 and April 30th, 2026
- May: 30th May, 2026
- June: 28th June, 2026
- July: 27th July, 2026
- August: 26th Aug, 2026
- September: 24th Sept, 2026
- October: 23rd Oct, 2026
- November: 22nd Nov, 2026
- December: 22nd Dec, 2026
Where to See Lanterns in Hoi An
The river is the heart of the lantern festival. Thousands of floating lanterns drift gently on the water, creating a beautiful experience. Visitors can release their own lanterns, making it a perfect spot for photography and personal wishes.
Hoi An’s historic streets come alive as lanterns hang from every building, shop and tree. Walking through the cobblestone alleys during the festival feels like a whole new world.
This iconic landmark is illuminated with lanterns, with all the ancient architecture and soft glowing light. It’s one of the best vantage points to capture the festival’s unique charm and cultural essence.
The Hoi An night market glows under lanterns, combining the festival’s visual magic with local flavors and crafts. Visitors can shop for souvenirs, taste street food and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere while surrounded by shimmering lights.
Things to Do During Hoi An Lantern Festival Vietnam
Release Lanterns on the river
Be part of the tradition by setting afloat paper lanterns on the Thu Bon River. During the Hoi An Vietnam Lantern Festival, locals and tourists alike make wishes for happiness, health, and prosperity.
Experience the festival from the water. Gliding along the river during the Hoi An Full Moon Lantern Festival offers the most magical views and incredible photo opportunities.
Explore Hoi An’s historic temples, beautifully decorated for the festival in Hoi An. Candlelight, incense and ceremonial lanterns create a spiritual and immersive atmosphere.
Get a chance to savor local delights at the night market and riverside stalls. From Cao Lầu noodles to sweet lantern-shaped treats, the Hoi An Lantern Festival in Vietnam is a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds, offering an authentic taste of Vietnamese cuisine.
Enjoy folk music, lion dances and cultural shows that bring the Hoi An Full Moon Lantern festival to life. These performances showcase the rich heritage that makes this festival in Hoi An amazing.
Where to Buy Lanterns and How to Use Them?
Lanterns are easy to find in Hoi An Old Town, just look for stalls along the streets and near the Thu Bon River. Prices usually range from 50,000 to 150,000 VND, depending on the size and design. Most lanterns are made of paper or silk with a small candle inside, and some shops even sell floating lantern kits specifically for the river.
How to use them safely:
- Light the candle carefully and place it inside the lantern.
- Hold it upright until it fills with air and floats steadily.
- Release it on the river or hang it on a lantern frame along the streets.
- Make a wish or dedication-it’s part of the tradition!
- Always follow local guidelines and don’t release lanterns in restricted areas for safety reasons.
Travel Tips and Rules for Hoi An Lantern Festival Vietnam
- Go early to avoid crowds – Arrive before sunset to secure the best spots along the Thu Bon River and in the Ancient Town. The Hoi An Lantern Festival attracts large crowds, so early planning is key.
- Photography - As the lighting is not so good, you should take your ring light and other essentials for some good photos at this beautiful place.
- Wear comfortable shoes or sandals, as you’ll be walking extensively through Hoi An Ancient Town and visiting temples during the festival.
- Carry cash – Many riverside vendors, markets, and food stalls don’t accept cards. Bring local currency for lanterns, snacks, or souvenirs during the festival in Hoi An.
- Respect local customs – Participate in traditions like releasing lanterns respectfully. Avoid touching temple altars or disturbing ceremonial activities at the Hoi An Lantern Festival Vietnam.
- Dress modestly – Since the festival involves temple visits and cultural rituals, covering shoulders and knees shows respect and ensures comfort while exploring the Hoi An Full Moon Lantern Festival.
- Avoid littering – Keep the streets and river clean. Dispose of trash properly and avoid leaving lanterns that aren’t biodegradable behind, helping preserve the charm of this festival in Hoi An for future visitors.
By Air:
- Nearest airport: Da Nang International Airport
- Then taxi/bus to Hoi An (30-45 minutes)
By Train:
By Bus:
- From Hanoi: 30 hours
- From Ho Chi Minh City: 27 hours
- From Da Nang: 45 Mins
Best Time to Visit Vietnam for Hoi An Lantern Festival
The Hoi An Vietnam Lantern Festival happens every month on the 14th day of the lunar calendar, but timing your visit can make all the difference in your experience of this iconic festival in Hoi An.
- Evening is magical – The festival truly comes alive after sunset, when lanterns glow on the Thu Bon River and Ancient Town streets are lit with soft, flickering lights. For photography and immersive experiences, plan to arrive in the late afternoon.
- The dry season is ideal – The best months to visit Hoi An are February to April and June to August, when the weather is warm and rainfall is minimal. Avoid September to November, when heavy rains can disrupt both travel plans and festival activities.
The Hoi An Lantern Festival is a truly magical experience that lets you see Vietnam’s culture and traditions come alive. From floating lanterns on the Thu Bon River to exploring night markets and enjoying local performances, there’s something for every traveler. Plan your visit around the 14th day of the lunar month and make the most of it. A night in Hoi An during the Lantern Festival is an experience you won’t forget.
