HOI AN LANTERN FESTIVAL: THE GLOWING SYMBOL OF VIETNAM’S ANCIENT TOWN

Culture

HOI AN LANTERN FESTIVAL: THE GLOWING SYMBOL OF VIETNAM’S ANCIENT TOWN

Golden walls, mossy roofs, and quiet lantern-lit streets give Hoi An Ancient Town a timeless charm that feels almost untouched by modern life. But when the Hoi An Lantern Festival begins and countless glowing Hoi An lanterns light up the night, the ancient town transforms into a fairytale scene that captivates every tourist.
13 March, 2026

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Hoi An Lantern Festival: The Glowing Symbol of Vietnam’s Ancient Town

The story behind Hoi An Lantern Festival 

When does the festival take place? 

The Hoi An Lantern Festival is one of the most enchanting cultural events in Hoi An Ancient Town, taking place on the full moon night of every lunar month. During this time, the historic streets transform into a glowing wonderland where thousands of colorful Hoi An lanterns illuminate the ancient houses, temples, and riverside paths, creating a magical atmosphere that attracts travelers from around the world.

The origin of the festival

hoi an lantern festival

The origins of the festival are deeply rooted in local culture and spiritual traditions. Historically, the full moon has long been considered a sacred moment in Buddhist belief, symbolizing reflection, renewal, and enlightenment. From the 16th to the 17th century, when Hoi An flourished as a busy international trading port, merchants from Japan and China introduced the custom of hanging decorative lanterns in front of houses and shops to bring luck and prosperity. Over time, this practice blended naturally into local life and gradually evolved into a defining cultural symbol of the town.

In 1998, local authorities officially incorporated the lantern tradition into monthly cultural celebrations, giving birth to the modern Hoi An Lantern Festival. On festival nights, electric lights are turned off throughout the old town, allowing the warm glow of countless lanterns to light up the streets and reflect gently along the peaceful Hoai River. The streets become quieter as traffic is restricted, inviting visitors to slow down, wander through the lantern-lit alleys, and experience the timeless beauty and culture that make Hoi An Ancient Town one of Vietnam’s most magical travel destinations.

Things to explore at Hoi An Lantern Festival

Admire the illuminated beauty of the town 

During the Hoi An Lantern Festival, Hoi An Ancient Town reveals a dreamlike beauty that feels almost straight out of a fairytale. As the evening begins, electric lights throughout the old town are switched off, leaving the streets illuminated only by the warm glow of hundreds of colorful Hoi An lanterns hanging from ancient houses, balconies, and narrow alleyways. The soft golden light reflects gently on old yellow walls and tiled roofs, creating a magical atmosphere that feels reminiscent of a Disney film scene.

Hoi An lantern festival

Strolling through the lantern-lit streets becomes one of the most memorable travel experiences in Hoi An. Visitors can wander slowly along the historic lanes, admire the glowing lanterns swaying gently in the night breeze, and capture stunning photos that look like something straight from Pinterest. Sharing this peaceful walk with loved ones, surrounded by the enchanting lights and timeless charm of the town, allows travelers to slow down and truly appreciate the culture and beauty that make Hoi An Ancient Town so unforgettable.

Release lanterns on poetic Hoai River

One of the most unforgettable experiences during the Hoi An Lantern Festival is releasing lanterns along the peaceful Hoai River. As night falls over Hoi An Ancient Town, visitors often step onto small wooden boats drifting slowly along the river, taking in the enchanting views of the lantern-lit town from the water.

Releasing a floating lantern is more than just a beautiful activity. Each lantern carries a quiet wish for happiness, luck, or love, gently gliding across the river’s surface. As hundreds of glowing lights drift downstream, the Hoai River sparkles like a ribbon of dreams under the night sky, creating one of the most magical scenes of the Hoi An lantern culture. Before leaving, many travelers also choose to buy colorful lanterns as souvenirs, bringing home a small piece of Hoi An’s light and the wishes they once set afloat on the poetic river.

Release lanterns on poetic Hoai River

Join in traditional activities

While the glowing Hoi An lanterns create the magical backdrop of the Hoi An Lantern Festival, the celebration is also filled with lively cultural activities that bring the town’s traditions to life. As you walk through the streets of Hoi An Ancient Town, you may encounter performances of folk singing, poetry recitals, and traditional Vietnamese musical instruments that echo through the lantern-lit alleys.

One of the most beloved cultural highlights during the festival is Bai Choi, a unique art form that blends music, poetry, storytelling, and acting. Recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2017, Bai Choi performances reflect the everyday life, humor, and spirit of local communities. Between songs and poetic chants, performers also host a traditional card game similar to bingo, where visitors can join in and test their luck. Even if you simply watch the performance from the crowd, the joyful atmosphere captures the vibrant culture of the Hoi An Lantern Festival, making the night even more memorable for every traveler.

Join in traditional activities

If you are planning a travel journey to Hoi An, witnessing the magical glow of the Hoi An Lantern Festival is an experience you simply should not miss. From strolling through the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An Ancient Town to releasing a wish-filled lantern on the peaceful Hoai River, every moment offers a glimpse into the rich culture and timeless charm of this enchanting destination.

To make your trip even more memorable, let ACT Travel help you plan the perfect itinerary. With carefully designed tours and local expertise, ACT Travel ensures you experience the most magical side of Hoi An while enjoying a smooth and unforgettable travel adventure in Vietnam.

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