Hoi An Lantern Festival
Central Vietnam · January – December
On the full moon each month, the ancient town switches off electric lights and floats lanterns on the river.
About this event
When to go
The lantern festival happens on the 14th day of each lunar month — roughly once a month all year. The biggest nights are during Tet, the Mid-Autumn Festival, and the Hoi An Lantern Festival week in spring and autumn.
What to expect
The Old Town dims its electric lights and thousands of silk lanterns glow along the Thu Bon river. Locals release lanterns on the water as offerings, food stalls line the streets, and traditional music plays in the Assembly Halls. Boat rides along the river are the classic way to see it.
Practical tips
Book a riverside restaurant table in advance on lantern nights, or arrive by 6pm to watch the lighting from the Japanese Bridge. Entry to the Old Town requires a ticket; keep it with you. The festival is family-friendly and free to watch from the bridges.
Photos
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