The Mid-Autumn Festival (Tết Trung Thu) is one of Vietnam’s most magical and exciting cultural celebrations. Full of glowing lanterns, vibrant parades, and delicious mooncakes, this festival is a must-see during your Vietnam travel. If you’re planning a trip during this festive season, you’ll want to know the best places to immerse yourself in all the traditions, from lion dances to lantern-lit streets. To help you experience the Mid-Autumn Festival in the most unforgettable way, here are the top four destinations across Vietnam where the magic of this special celebration comes alive.
1. The Old Quarter, Hanoi: A Nostalgic Vietnam Festival Experience
If you’re visiting Hanoi during the Mid-Autumn Festival, there’s no better place to be than the Old Quarter. The narrow streets of this historic neighborhood transform into a sea of glowing lanterns and bustling markets. As one of the best places to soak in the festive atmosphere, the Old Quarter is famous for its traditional toys, colorful lanterns, and bustling night markets that spring to life during the festival.
In the weeks leading up to the Mid-Autumn Festival, Hang Ma Street becomes the heart of the celebration. Lined with shops selling lanterns, masks, and other festive decorations, this vibrant street draws both locals and tourists. You can wander the streets, enjoy the energetic lion dances, and even try your hand at making your own lantern.
Travel Tip: Don’t miss the evening parades, where children carry lanterns of all shapes and sizes, lighting up the Old Quarter’s already charming streets.
2. Hoi An: A Lantern Wonderland
Famous for its charming streets and beautifully preserved architecture, Hoi An takes the Mid-Autumn Festival to a whole new level. The town’s already renowned lantern displays become even more spectacular as the entire ancient town turns into a glowing wonderland. Lanterns of all colors and designs light up the streets, canals, and rivers, creating a magical, dreamy atmosphere that’s hard to find anywhere else.
During the festival, Hoi An’s waterfront comes alive with floating lanterns. As night falls, you’ll see hundreds of lanterns floating gently along the Thu Bon River, each one carrying wishes of good fortune. The sight is breathtaking and offers a perfect opportunity for romantic evening strolls or serene boat rides.
Travel Tip: Visit the central market to try local mooncakes, and don’t forget to join the locals in releasing your own lantern into the river—it’s said to bring good luck!
3. Ho Chi Minh City: A Modern Twist on a Traditional Celebration
For those wanting to experience a vibrant and modern take on the Mid-Autumn Festival during their Vietnam travel, Ho Chi Minh City is a great choice. The city comes alive with colorful lights and bustling events across various districts. District 5 (Chinatown), in particular, is the best place to experience traditional lion dances and parades, mixed with the dynamic energy of modern-day Saigon.
District 1 also hosts street festivals and family-friendly activities where children can join in lantern-making workshops or enjoy music performances. You’ll find mooncakes and local delicacies at street stalls, perfect for getting a true taste of the festival. While it’s a more modern celebration, the rich traditions are still very much alive.
Travel Tip: Head to Nguyen Hue Walking Street in District 1 to catch the grand light displays and performances. It’s a great place to see the city at its most festive!
4. Hue: A Cultural Mid-Autumn Delight
The ancient capital of Hue offers a unique and peaceful way to enjoy the Mid-Autumn Festival during your Vietnam travel. Known for its historical significance and slower pace, Hue’s festival celebrations tend to focus more on cultural performances and family gatherings. The city’s imperial charm is enhanced during the festival, with lanterns lighting up the Perfume River and historical buildings.
In addition to the lantern displays, Hue hosts several cultural events such as traditional music performances, dragon dances, and mooncake tastings. The calmness of the city allows visitors to experience the festival at a more relaxed pace, soaking in the rich heritage and enjoying traditional Vietnamese hospitality.
Travel Tip: If you’re looking to experience a more intimate and traditional celebration, head to the riverside near Trang Tien Bridge, where you can enjoy the sight of floating lanterns while taking in the peaceful ambiance.
Why the Mid-Autumn Festival Is a Must-See Event for Vietnam Travel
The Mid-Autumn Festival offers a unique opportunity to witness the magic of Vietnamese culture at its finest. Each of the cities mentioned above offers something special, from Hanoi’s nostalgic streets to Hoi An’s dreamy lantern-lit nights, to Ho Chi Minh City’s energetic festivities and Hue’s serene riverside celebrations. No matter which destination you choose, experiencing this festival during your Vietnam travel is sure to leave lasting memories.
Whether you’re captivated by the glowing lanterns or tempted by the sweet taste of mooncakes, the Mid-Autumn Festival will give you a deeper appreciation for Vietnam’s traditions and customs. Plus, you’ll have the chance to pick up unique souvenirs from Vietnam, like handmade lanterns and traditional mooncakes, that will remind you of this magical time long after your trip ends.
