Hoi An Lantern Festival 2025 – Dates, Tips & Where to Stay Published 11/09/2025
by

EXPERIENCE THE MAGIC OF THE HOI AN LANTERN FESTIVAL — A MONTHLY FULL MOON TRADITION WHERE LANTERNS LIGHT UP THE ANCIENT TOWN, THE RIVER SPARKLES WITH WISHES, AND FUSE ADDS UNFORGETTABLE WAYS TO CELEBRATE.

Hoi An Lantern Festival: A Night of Light, Wishes, and Magic

Once a month, Hoi An transforms into a glowing wonderland during the Hoi An Lantern Festival, held on the 14th day of the lunar calendar—coinciding with the full moon. On this night, the ancient town’s electric lights dim, and thousands of colorful lanterns illuminate the streets, homes, and riverbanks. The soft, warm glow turns the UNESCO World Heritage-listed town into a scene straight out of a painting.

What Happens During the Festival?

Traditional Performances & Cultural Displays

From poetry recitals to folk music and dance, the festival’s entertainment adds an authentic cultural touch. You can wander the streets and find impromptu performances along the riverbanks.

Lanterns Everywhere

From traditional silk lanterns swaying above the streets to tiny paper lanterns drifting along the Hoai River, the town becomes a living work of art. Each lantern is not just for decoration—they are symbols of light and guidance, representing knowledge, hope, and prosperity.

The Hoai River Spectacle

The river comes alive with floating lanterns carrying handwritten wishes. Vendors line the banks selling small paper lanterns, often for just a few thousand VND. Visitors can release them from the shore or take a short boat ride for a more intimate experience.

FUSE Tip: Instead of haggling with random vendors, join our FUSE River Cruise—available twice a week—where we include paper lanterns, drinks, music, transportation, and the best spots to release your wish into the water.

Street Food & Festivities

Without the rumble of motorbikes—the streets are closed for the event—you can safely explore stalls selling everything from bánh mì to fresh sugarcane juice.

Why It’s Significant

The lantern festival is rooted in Buddhist traditions honoring the full moon, a sacred time for reflection and gratitude. Lanterns are believed to attract positive energy, bringing good luck to families and businesses. Releasing a lantern is more than a pretty gesture—it’s a spiritual act to honor ancestors, express gratitude, and send wishes for peace and good fortune into the universe.

When to Go

The festival happens monthly on the 14th day of the lunar calendar. It starts around dusk and runs until about 10:00 PM. For the exact date, check a lunar calendar before your trip. Arriving early helps you avoid the heaviest crowds, especially if you want to get close to the river. Here are the dates in 2025:

1. January 13, 2025
2. February 11, 2025
3. March 13, 2025
4. April 11, 2025
5. May 11, 2025
6. June 9, 2025
7. July 8, 2025
8. August 7, 2025
9. September 5, 2025
10. October 5, 2025
11. November 3, 2025
12. December 3, 2025

Tips for the Best Experience

1. Arrive Early – Claim a spot by the river before it gets crowded.
2. Bring a Camera – The festival is one of the most photogenic events in Vietnam.
3. Take a Boat Ride – For the most magical view of lanterns on the water.
4. Plan Around the Moon – It’s busiest during Tet (Lunar New Year) and Mid-Autumn Festival.

FUSE Tip: Want to dive deeper into Hoi An’s lantern culture? On our FUSE Bike Tour, you’ll explore Old Town and the surrounding villages, meet skilled local artisans, and even craft your own silk lantern to take home.

Celebrate the Full Moon with FUSE

Every Lantern Festival week, FUSE takes the celebration further with our Full Moon Party—an electrifying night of:

1. Live DJ Sets pumping beats under the moonlight
2. Fun Games & Drink Specials to keep the energy high
3. Fire Dancers or Fireworks Displays for that extra “wow” factor
4. Beachside Bar & Epic Views of the glowing full moon





Entry is free, and everyone is welcome—whether you’re staying with us or just in town for the night.

Pair it with our FUSE River Cruise earlier in the evening, and you’ll experience the festival from two unforgettable perspectives: serene and reflective on the river, then vibrant and electric at the beach party.