Immerse Yourself in Cultural Splendor – Must-Experience Festivals in Vietnam

Vietnam, with its rich tapestry of traditions, boasts a myriad of festivals that offer a glimpse into the country’s vibrant culture and heritage. Here are some must-experience festivals that will immerse you in the lively spirit of Vietnam.

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1. Tet Nguyen Dan (Lunar New Year):

Celebrated in late January or early February, Tet is the most significant and widely celebrated festival in Vietnam. Experience colourful parades, traditional performances, and the iconic Dragon and Lion Dances. Don’t miss the festive atmosphere and traditional dishes associated with Tet.

2. Huong Pagoda Festival:

Taking place in the Perfume Pagoda, near Hanoi, this festival spans from January to March. Join pilgrims on a boat journey to the pagoda, nestled amid picturesque limestone mountains. The festival is a blend of religious rituals, cultural performances, and stunning natural scenery.

3. Mid-Autumn Festival (Tet Trung Thu):

Celebrated on the 15th day of the eighth lunar month, usually in September, the Mid-Autumn Festival is a joyous occasion for families. Lantern processions, lion dances, and mooncakes mark this festival, creating a lively and colourful atmosphere making it one of the best things to do in Quy Nhon.

4. Yen Tu Festival:

Held at Yen Tu Mountain, this festival attracts pilgrims during the first months of the Lunar New Year. It’s associated with the founder of Truc Lam Zen Buddhism, and participants climb the mountain to visit pagodas and partake in spiritual activities. If you book in advance and plan out your stay, you can even get great offers and discounts from hotels such as Avani Quy Nhon Resort.

5. Hoi An Lantern Festival (Tet Nguyen Tieu):

Celebrated on the 15th day of the first lunar month, this festival transforms the ancient town of Hoi An into a magical spectacle of lantern-lit streets and vibrant cultural performances. Join locals in releasing lanterns into the Thu Bon River for good luck.

Festivals That Will Leave You Speechless – A Quy Nhon, Vietnam Travel Guide

This coastal city in Bình Định province, Vietnam was once flourishing in agriculture and fishing as their primary commercial activities. Quy Nhon has now become a widely popular tourist destination that attracts travellers from all corners of the world. While you may be planning a vacation to Quy Nhon, be sure to note if your trip coincides with any of the below festivals in the city.

Kick Up a Session of Martial Arts

The Vietnamese traditional martial arts are honoured once every two years on a platform created especially to discuss all things martial arts, delegation meetings, exchanges and promoting this art on a global scale. Participants of this event will be able to reside at a Quy Nhon hotel. The Bình Định traditional martial arts festival kicks off with performances in the town of Quy Nhon, a convenient location to reach for guests staying at Anantara Quy Nhon Villas.

Dong Da Festival

The Dong Da Festival is an annual tradition that takes place for Emperor Quang Tung and the leaders of the Tay Son movement. Festivities of this tradition are carried out on the fifth day of the first lunar month and will involve Vietnamese martial arts, Kung Fu (di quyen), a drumming competition and playing with fighting sticks.

Summer Sea Festival to Explore

The Summer Sea Festival includes an entertainment-filled series of activities for all. This family-friendly festival features events in both culture and sport. As means of attracting local and foreign travellers, the Summer Sea Festival offers an assortment of exciting activities like futsal for children, martial arts competitions, culinary contests and tourism workshops.

Do Gian Festival – the Story of a Goddess

The Do Gian Festival is a special ceremony held in the village of An Thai on the fifteenth day of the seventh lunar month, to worship Ba, Goddess of the Sea. While villagers celebrate this festival in song and dance, they seek the blessings of Ba for good weather, wealth and joy. The village community also practises a sacrifice offering of roasted pork which is thrown down from the trellis after the festival.