Culture & Heritage
History, traditions, and festivals that shape Vietnamese life.
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Festivals & Events
Photographing Vietnam Festivals in 2026: Etiquette, Temple Rules, and Consent
This guide explains how to photograph Vietnam festivals in 2026 without causing offence. It covers dress, greetings, consent, temple and photo rules, regional differences, dates for Tết Nguyên Đán, Hùng Kings Commemoration, and Mid-Autumn Festival, plus practical transport and drone advice. Use it to plan respectful, useful images.
by Phạm Quốc Bảo
4 min readAcross Vietnam
Vietnam’s Water Puppet Theater: Practical Guide for International Visitors
Vietnamese water puppetry is a centuries-old art form that brings folklore and rural life to the stage through wooden puppets and live music. This guide covers its history, where to see authentic shows, ticketing, and tips for visitors.
Hoi An After Dark: Experiencing Lanterns, Local Life, and Nighttime Heritage
Hoi An transforms after sunset, when lanterns illuminate the ancient streets and local traditions come alive. This guide focuses on how international visitors can experience the town’s living heritage at night—beyond the usual tourist circuit—through festivals, workshops, and authentic local encounters.
Hue Festival: A Practical Guide for International Visitors
The Hue Festival is Vietnam’s largest biennial cultural event, bringing traditional and contemporary performances to the historic city of Hue. This guide covers essential facts, tips, and resources for planning your visit to the 2024 edition.
Exploring Ethnic Culture in Ha Giang: A Guide for International Visitors
Ha Giang, Vietnam’s northernmost province, is known for its mountain scenery and diverse ethnic groups. This guide covers how to experience local culture, practical travel tips, and what visitors should expect.
Visiting the Traditional Stilt Houses of the Tay Ethnic Group in Northern Vietnam
The Tay ethnic group’s stilt houses, or 'nhà sàn', offer a window into centuries-old traditions in the mountains of Northern Vietnam. This guide covers where and how to experience these unique homes, what to expect from a homestay, and practical tips for international visitors.
Hue Festival for Families: How to Enjoy Vietnam’s Royal Celebration with Kids
A practical guide for families planning to attend the Hue Festival, with tips on child-friendly events, logistics, and how to make the most of Vietnam’s royal heritage celebration with children.
Elephant Race Festival in Dak Lak: A Guide for International Visitors
The Elephant Race Festival in Dak Lak province is a rare chance to experience the traditions of Vietnam’s Central Highlands. Held annually in Buon Don district, this spring event features elephant races, traditional music, and local food, highlighting the unique relationship between the Mnong and Ede people and their elephants. This guide covers essential details, practical tips, and ethical considerations for attending.
Hue’s Imperial City After Dark: Nighttime Visits in 2026
Hue’s Imperial City opens its gates after dark from March to October 2026, offering international visitors a chance to explore royal architecture, illuminated courtyards, and live cultural performances. Updated ticketing, transport options, and practical tips make it easier to plan an evening heritage walk in this UNESCO-listed site.
Dong Ho Folk Painting: Experiencing Vietnam’s Visual Heritage in 2026
Dong Ho folk painting, a centuries-old Vietnamese art form, is thriving again in 2026 thanks to local artisans and cultural initiatives. This guide covers the origins of Dong Ho painting, how to visit its ancestral village near Hanoi, and practical tips for international travelers interested in workshops, festivals, and authentic art experiences.
Nghinh Ong Whale Festival in Can Gio: Visitor Guide for 2026
The Nghinh Ong Whale Festival in Can Gio is a major cultural event in southern Vietnam, honoring the whale as a spiritual guardian of fishermen. Held September 11-13, 2026, the festival features processions, folk performances, and seafood feasts, offering visitors a chance to experience local maritime traditions.
Buffalo Stabbing Festival (Lễ Hội Đâm Trâu) in Vietnam’s Central Highlands: Tradition and Change in 2026
The Buffalo Stabbing Festival (Lễ Hội Đâm Trâu) is a centuries-old ceremony of the Bahnar, Jarai, and Ede peoples in Vietnam’s Central Highlands. In 2026, the festival continues to evolve, with some communities adapting rituals in response to animal welfare concerns. International visitors can witness this rare event by planning carefully, respecting local customs, and coordinating with local guides.
Attending the Đền Hùng Festival in Phú Thọ, Vietnam (2026 Guide)
The Đền Hùng Festival is Vietnam’s largest pilgrimage, honoring the legendary Hùng Kings. Held in Phú Thọ Province from April 22–25, 2026, this UNESCO-recognized event draws crowds for processions, music, and traditional rituals. Here’s how international visitors can experience the festival, with practical tips on transport, accommodation, and what to expect.