The Hoi An Lantern Festival transforms this UNESCO World Heritage Old Town into a mesmerising spectacle every full moon. Held on the 14th day of each lunar month, this Vietnamese cultural festival sees electric lights replaced by thousands of handmade lanterns illuminating ancient streets and the Thu Bon River. Whether planning night photography, seeking authentic cultural experiences, or exploring things to do in Hoi An at night, this monthly celebration offers magical moments with lantern releases, traditional music, and vibrant night markets. This guide covers festival dates, photography spots, and essential travel tips for 2026.
What is the Hoi An Lantern Festival?
The Hoi An full moon festival is a monthly cultural tradition where the Old Town turns off electric lights and illuminates streets with colourful silk and paper lanterns. Locals honour ancestors, make wishes, and release floating lanterns on the Hoai River. The festival features traditional Bài Chòi music, folk games, and bustling night markets, creating an authentic glimpse into Vietnamese heritage. This sacred ritual of remembrance keeps Hoi An’s cultural identity alive across generations.
Hoi An Lantern Festival Dates: Lunar Calendar Schedule
| Month | Festival Date |
| January | 13 January |
| February | 11th February |
| March | 13 March |
| April | 11th April |
| May | 11 May |
| June | 9th June |
| July | 9th July |
| August | 7th August |
| September | 6th September |
| October | 5th October |
| November | 4th November |
| December | 3rd December |
Best Time to Visit Hoi An Lantern Festival
Post-Tết Festivals: Biggest Crowds & Performances
The first full moon after Tết (February-March) draws the biggest crowds with spectacular performances. Book accommodations 2-3 months in advance.
Ideal Weather Months: February to April
February through April offer dry conditions and comfortable temperatures. Avoid October-December when flooding can affect low-lying areas.
Crowd Strategy: Regular Full Moon Nights
Regular full moon nights (May-November, excluding post-Tết) provide authentic experiences with manageable crowds.
Evening Schedule of Hoi An Lantern Festival
- 17:00-18:00: Vendors set up lantern stalls and performers prepare. Arrive now to secure prime viewing spots.
- 18:00-18:30: Electric lights turn off across Old Town. Lanterns illuminate, creating a dramatic atmosphere.
- 18:30-20:30: Peak festival time with lantern releases, traditional music performances, folk games, and street food at maximum energy.
- 20:30-22:00: Night markets continue as crowds thin, ideal for relaxed photography and riverside walks.
Note: Activities include floating lantern releases on Thu Bon River, Bài Chòi music performances, folk games, riverside dining, and night market shopping for handicrafts.
How to Get to Hoi An Lantern Festival from Da Nang
Da Nang International Airport is just a 45-minute drive from Hoi An Old town.
| Transport Method | Cost (VND) | Duration |
| Taxi | 350,000-550,000 | 45 min |
| Grab (ride-hailing) | 280,000-450,000 | 45 min |
| Hotel Transfer | 450,000-700,000 | 45 min |
| Shared Shuttle | 230,000-350,000 | 60 min |
Note: Pre-book return transportation, post-event taxi waits exceed 45 minutes during peak crowds.
