Hoi An Lantern Festival 2023: A magical event on every full moon

The Hoi An Lantern Festival leaves a profound impression on distant travelers as the ancient streets become vibrant with lanterns and wishes under the full moon.

This is a must-see event in the ancient town, where small, radiant lanterns float dreamily along the Hoai River. It’s a spectacle that everyone wants to witness when visiting this historic city.

Here, let’s learn about the Lantern festival in Hoi An with Nghe Prana and tips to keep in mind when you visit Hoi An during this festival.

1. The Lantern Festival showcases unique cultural heritage of Hoi An

1.1. When did this festival first appear in Hoi An?

The lantern releasing activity takes place at 6 PM on the following special days:

• The 1st, 14th, and 15th day of each lunar month. And on the full moon of the eighth month (Lunar Calendar), the festival is even more bustling.
• Every Saturday.

Releasing lanterns is a traditional and unique activity of the Vietnamese people, especially in Hoi An. Hoi An lantern release festival is held on the 14th and 15th lunar days of each month and every Saturday from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm. But the most special lantern release festival is on the Mid-Autumn Festival night (“Têt Trung Thu” in Vietnamese). In 2023, Mid-Autumn Festival will fall on September 29.

The festival also known as the full moon festival. During these days, the streets of Hoi An glow with hundreds of hanging lanterns. Visitors can personally release small, colorful lanterns onto the water, creating a romantic scene.

The Lantern Festival began in 1998 and has attracted many tourists, becoming a distinctive cultural feature. Make sure to gather additional travel tips for a complete and memorable journey to this destination.

1.2. Where does the Lantern Festival take place?

The Hoi An Lantern Festival takes place on the peaceful Hoai River, nestled in the heart of the ancient town. The river is closely associated with the local people’s cultural and daily activities. While normally tranquil, on full moon nights, it becomes lively and poetic as hundreds of visitors gather to release their wishes on brightly lit lanterns.

1.3. What is the significance of the lantern release ceremony in Hoi An?

In Hoi An, people and Vietnamese culture believe that releasing lanterns brings good health and prosperity. Releasing lanterns symbolizes hope for a fortunate and peaceful future, eagerly anticipated by tourists.

2. Best time to see the Lantern festival?

For the best experience, you must visit Lantern Festival during the dry season from March to September. If unable to attend on the full moon, Saturdays are also lively for lantern releases on the Hoai River.

3. How to join the Lantern Festival in Hoi An?

Before joining the lantern festival, stroll through the streets to admire the colorful lanterns. From a bridge or a boat, immerse yourself in the festival’s ambiance.

4. Experiencing lantern release on the river in Hoi An

Buy small lanterns for 5,000 – 10,000 VND each along the Hoai River. Choose to release from the shore or while rowing a boat. After the festival, explore Hoi An’s specialties on the streets.

The most beautiful view for releasing lanterns in Hoi An can be found along the steps near the Hoai River. It offers both proximity to the water and safety.

Another option is to release lanterns while sitting on a boat, which can be reached by walking along the Hoi An pedestrian street. Boat trips cost around 30,000 – 100,000 VND per person (serving approximately 3-4 guests per boat). While on the boat, you can not only listen to fascinating stories about the region but also enjoy the gentle folk melodies of the hospitable locals.

During the full moon, Hoi An becomes bustling as tourists eagerly participate in this unique festival.

5. Note to visitors when visit Hoi An during the Lantern Festival

When participating in the festival, there are important points to note:

• The festival is open to locals and tourists, so it can be crowded. Be cautious for personal safety and belongings as the entire Old Town will have no electric lights.
• Arrive early around 6 PM as the lanterns will be ready for release. This allows you to choose a beautiful spot and capture memorable photos.
• The ideal time to visit Hoi An for lantern releasing is during the dry season, from March to September.
• Wear comfortable shoes when exploring the Old Town since vehicles (except bicycles) are not allowed, and you will need to do a lot of walking.

6. Where to stay in Hoi An during the Lantern Festival?

If you are seeking a place to relax and unwind while visit Hoi An’s ancient town, Nghê Prana Villa & Spa Hoi An is an excellent choice!

Nghê Prana Villa & Spa Hoi An is conveniently situated just a stone’s throw away from the heart of Hoi An’s old town. Its enchanting allure and captivating view of the Thu Bon River immerse guests in the embrace of nature and the authentic local lifestyle. A journey to Nghê Prana is a nostalgic and romantic experience, capturing the essence of the true “Hoi An” spirit.

Additionally, Nghê Prana offers an array of premium facilities and services, including:

• Infinity pool
• Spa, Beauty salon, Jacuzzi, Sauna
• Restaurant with a diverse selection of Asian, European, and vegetarian dishes
• Bar counter
• Airport shuttle service
• Laundry service
• 24/7 room service

Book rooms in Nghê Prana Villa & Spa Hoi An now to get the best deals!

For a long time, many excited tourists have come to this heritage land to experience the unique Hoi An lantern festival, sending their wishes into the small and lovely candlelit lanterns on the Hoai River, hoping their dreams will come true. The tranquil and silent ancient town, at times, also turns into a bustling and radiant spectacle, a beauty not always available to behold….