The Hoi An Lantern Festival, or Full Moon Lantern Festival, is simply one of the most beautiful and special events in Vietnam. If you’re planning one of your trips to Hoi An, you must choose to go during this amazing festival that occurs every month. For me, walking into Hoi An on a festival night was like walking into a vibrant, living painting. Every corner of the Hoi An Ancient Town was glowing with color and gentle light.
This post will get you on your way to planning the perfect trip, with all the important information you’ll need from official dates, to local foods to enjoy while you’re there.
If you’re planning to visit, I recommend checking out this complete travel resource to Hoi An to make the most of your trip.
The Meaning and Origin of the Hoi An Lantern Festival
The root of the Lantern Festival in Hoi An can be traced back to the 16th and 17th centuries when Hoi An flourished as a major trading port. The tradition of hanging lanterns in front of homes came from Chinese and Japanese settlers to attract luck and prosperity and it became a custom. Through time, the Vietnamese locals incorporated it into a custom, where they celebrated by hanging lanterns every full moon.
In 1988, the local government revived the custom, and encouraged locals to use lanterns instead of electric lights for the monthly full moon festival.
Now, it is not just a festival; it is a glimpse of the cultural soul of Hoi An. The lanterns made of silk or paper represent light, hope and happiness. Every lantern tells a story and is the result of careful preparation by artisans who have passed down their art for generations.
When I first went to the festival, I remember how surreal it was to see something that didn’t have neon labels or loud music, just a thousand of lanterns glistening in the water.
What Happens During the Lantern Festival in Hoi An
During the Festival, the ancient town transforms into a peaceful, glowing masterpiece. The streets close to traffic, allowing everyone to walk freely among the lantern-lit alleys and bridges.
All electric lights are switched off. Only handmade lanterns and candles illuminate the night. The Thu Bon River becomes a ribbon of light, reflecting the floating lanterns like stars on water. It’s breathtaking, especially when viewed from a sampan boat.
There’s also a deep spiritual feeling in the air. Locals visit temples to pray for health, luck, and happiness. The festival connects everyone through shared wishes and quiet appreciation of beauty.
Top Things to Do at the Lantern Festival
Release Lanterns on the Thu Bon River
One of my favorite experiences was purchasing a tiny paper lantern for about 5,000 VND and floating it on the Thu Bon River. Each floating lantern symbolizes a wish; mine was for peace and for safe travels.
According to the locals, releasing a lantern brings well wishes and happiness. I joined the crowd along the riverbank, got onto a tiny wooden sampan, and carefully released my lantern. Watching it float away with hundreds of lanterns around it was fantastic.
Be sure to be conscious of safety and the environment when using floating lanterns, especially opting for eco-friendly options when possible.
Explore Lantern Parades and Cultural Performances
The lantern parade resembles a flowing ocean of colors. Locals, children, and visitors all carry lanterns in the form of dragons and butterflies, and flowers. Temple offerings come to life in the town squares with musicians and dancers performing their traditional music and dance.
The temples perform rituals that have been done for hundreds of years. I recall stopping to watch a group of locals perform some folk songs by moonlight—it was truly from another time.
Join Lantern-Making Workshops
If you want to make a lantern, join one of the lantern-making workshops offered throughout the town. Local artisans teach the art of stretching silk over a bamboo frame to make their own lanterns and paint traditional patterns.
It’s a wonderful way to understand lantern craftsmanship, and you get to bring home a unique souvenir made by your own hands.
Enjoy Local Cuisine and Night Markets
Food is a must for any trip to Hoi An. During the festival, stalls of food line the streets, offering a variety of tasty, hot food to feast on. I tried the local noodle dish called Cao Lau which is made up of noodles, roasted pork, fresh greens, and crunchy croutons. It was unlike anything else we found throughout Vietnam.
Other must-try dishes include:
- Cao Lau: chewy noodles with pork, greens, and crispy croutons.
- Banh Mi Hoi An: a crunchy baguette filled with meat, herbs, and tangy sauce.
- Com Ga (chicken rice): fragrant rice topped with shredded chicken and herbs.
- Mi Quang: noodles served with pork, shrimp, and quail eggs.
At the night market, you’ll also find local snacks, handmade jewelry, and lantern souvenirs. It’s the perfect place to pick up something authentic and enjoy the festive mood.
Best Time and Tips for Experiencing the Lantern Festival
To enjoy the Fullmoon Lantern Festival at its best, plan your visit during the dry season (February to August). The weather is pleasant, and the river glows beautifully under the clear sky. Read more to discover when to visit Ancient Town for the best experience.
Tips from my own experience:
- Go early – the town fills up quickly after sunset, and arriving a bit sooner lets you enjoy the peaceful charm before the crowd.
- Dress comfortably, but don’t forget to look nice – even a simple outfit or an Ao Dai makes your photos shine under the lantern light.
- Bring your camera (or just your phone) – the way the lanterns reflect on the Thu Bon River is something you’ll want to capture and remember.
- Stay quiet and respectful near temples – this is a spiritual moment for many locals, and your calm presence adds to the serenity.
- And before you plan your trip, always check the festival dates so you don’t miss this magical night in Hoi An.
If you’re into photography, the bridge near Japanese Covered Bridge offers one of the best views.
How to Get to Hoi An and Around During the Festival
Getting to Hoi An is easy. I usually recommend flying into Da Nang International Airport and then booking a private car transfer to Hoi An—it takes around 45 minutes.
Once in town, most streets are pedestrian-only, especially during the festival night. You can walk or rent a bicycle. For a unique view, take a boat ride along the Thu Bon River to see the floating lanterns up close.
Parking near the town can be tricky, so it’s best to arrive before sunset.
Why the Hoi An Lantern Festival Is Special
This festival is special because of its balance of tradition and modernity. It is not merely a tourist event; it represents a celebration of the UNESCO World Heritage values that Hoi An is proud of.
The lanterns symbolize more than just decorative elements. They symbolize hope, prosperity, and peace. The water of the Thu Bon River reflects this symbolism as all the lights drift downstream in the river’s flow, much like flowing wishes.
As I stood there watching thousands of lanterns sail into the night, I felt both small and a part of something much bigger. This is the beautiful thing about Hoi An; it captivates you in gentle, unforgettable ways that remain with you long after your visit.