Have you ever wondered why Vietnam is always buzzing with colorful festivals all year round? This article will take you on an exciting journey through the most exciting Vietnam festivals! You’ll discover why Vietnamese people are always busy in these occasions, set off fireworks, carry lanterns, and even splash water on each other (with love, of course!). If you’re looking to experience a rich culture and snap some “million-like” photos, get ready to dive into the biggest festivals in Vietnam and join the fun!
Top 10 Vietnam Festivals
1. Lunar New Year (Tết Nguyên Đán)
Lunar New Year is the most important and grandest Vietnam festival, typically taking place from the end of the lunar December to the fifth day of the new lunar year. It is not only a time for family reunions but also an occasion to honor ancestors and welcome the new year with hopes for luck and happiness. Before Tet, families clean and decorate their homes, prepare offerings for ancestral worship, and arrange a five-fruit tray to symbolize wishes for prosperity.
During the holiday, people exchange warm wishes, and children and the elderly receive red envelopes (lì xì) as a symbol of good fortune. Traditional dishes such as bánh chưng (square sticky rice cake), bánh tét (cylindrical sticky rice cake), pickled onions, and braised pork are essential parts of the festive meals, adding to the unique flavors of Tet. Additionally, Vietnamese people enjoy spring outings, visiting temples and pagodas to pray for peace and a prosperous new year. More than just Vietnam celebration days, Tet represents a beautiful cultural tradition that strengthens family bonds and reflects the unity of the Vietnamese people.
2. Liberation of the South and National Reunification Day – April 30th and May 1st
April 30th – Liberation of the South and National Reunification Day – is a significant milestone in Vietnam’s history, marking the victory of the Ho Chi Minh Campaign in 1975, which ended the war and unified the North and South. This day is not only a source of national pride but also a reminder of the spirit of unity and the Vietnamese people’s desire for peace. Following this, May 1st – International Workers’ Day is a time to honor the contributions of workers, promote labor rights, and emphasize the value of work in society. These Vietnam holidays are often accompanied by an extended break, allowing for various commemorative events, leisure activities, and travel across the country.
3. Vietnam National Day – September 2nd
Vietnam National Day is one of the most important Vietnam celebrations, marking a historic event when President Ho Chi Minh read the Declaration of Independence at Ba Dinh Square in 1945, officially establishing the Democratic Republic of Vietnam (now the Socialist Republic of Vietnam).
This day is a time for the Vietnamese people to honor the sacrifices of previous generations and take pride in their nation’s independence and freedom. Every year, celebrations are held nationwide, including parades, fireworks displays, and flag-raising ceremonies. As a public holiday, workers have the day off to enjoy meaningful activities with their families, expressing national pride and patriotism.
4. Vietnamese Teachers’ Day – November 20th
Vietnamese Teachers’ Day is a remarkable event in Vietnam celebrations, dedicated to honoring educators and expressing gratitude from students and society. This day originated in 1957 when the International Federation of Teachers’ Unions (FISE) designated November 20th as “Charter Day for Teachers,” and Vietnam officially recognized and began celebrating it annually in 1982.
On this occasion, schools across the country organize meaningful activities such as performances, discussions, and tribute ceremonies, while students often present teachers with fresh flowers and heartfelt wishes as tokens of appreciation. Vietnamese Teachers’ Day is not only a celebration of the education sector but also a reminder of the nation’s cherished tradition of “respecting teachers and valuing education.”
5. Children’s Day – June 1st
Children’s Day is a special Vietnam festival dedicated to children in Vietnam. On this day, families, schools, and organizations organize various fun activities, performances, and gift-giving events for kids. It is not only a time for children to enjoy happiness but also an opportunity for the community to show care, love, and protection for the younger generation. Although it is not an official public holiday, Children’s Day always brings a joyful and festive atmosphere across the country.
6. Vietnamese Women’s Day – October 20th
October 20th is Vietnamese Women’s Day, a special occasion to honor the significant contributions of women to both family and society. This day was established in 1930 with the founding of the Vietnam Women’s Union, marking the recognition of women’s crucial role in the struggle for independence and national development. As part of remarkable Vietnam festivals, this occasion is marked by meaningful activities such as giving flowers, gifts, and heartfelt messages to grandmothers, mothers, wives, sisters, and female colleagues. It is also an opportunity to reaffirm the importance of women in various fields, including family, education, economics, politics, and culture.
7. Hung Kings’ Commemoration Day – 10th day of the 3rd lunar month
The Hung Kings’ Commemoration Day is also in the list of biggest festivals in Vietnam. This special occasion honors the Hung Kings, the legendary founders of Van Lang, the first Vietnamese state. The main celebration takes place at the Hung Kings’ Temple Complex in Phu Tho, featuring traditional rituals such as incense offering and palanquin processions, along with cultural activities like Xoan singing, wrestling, and tug-of-war.
More than just a tribute to ancestors, this Vietnam festival fosters national unity and a deep connection to the roots. Since 2007, Hung Kings’ Commemoration Day has been recognized as a national public holiday, reminding every Vietnamese of the famous saying: “Dù ai đi ngược về xuôi, nhớ ngày Giỗ Tổ mùng mười tháng ba” (“Wherever you go, remember the 10th of the third lunar month.”)
8. Mid-Autumn Festival – 15th day of the 8th lunar month
The Mid-Autumn Festival is one of the most famous traditional Vietnam celebrations. It is a joyful occasion where children play with colorful lanterns, watch lion dances, and enjoy mooncakes. According to folklore, this festival takes place when the moon is at its fullest and most beautiful, symbolizing reunion and happiness. Adults often gather with their families, sip tea, admire the moon, and share stories about legendary figures like Cuoi and the Moon Lady. Today, the Mid-Autumn Festival is not only a special day for children but also an opportunity for people to express their love and appreciation for family and friends through meaningful gifts.
9. Vu Lan Festival (Parents’ Appreciation Day) – 15th day of the 7th lunar month
Vu Lan Festival is a revered Buddhist holiday and one of the most meaningful Vietnam celebration days, reflecting the deep-rooted tradition of filial piety in Vietnamese culture. The festival originates from the legend of Muc Kien Lien rescuing his mother, which tells the story of a devoted monk who, with the guidance of Buddha, saved his mother from the suffering of the hungry ghost realm. As a result, Vu Lan has become an occasion for people to express gratitude and remembrance for their parents, grandparents, and ancestors.
Many people participate in this Vietnam festival by visiting pagodas to chant prayers, attending requiem ceremonies, and wearing roses on their shirts—red if their parents are still alive and white if they have passed away. Additionally, acts of kindness such as releasing animals and donating to charity are performed to accumulate blessings and show appreciation.
10. Cold Food Festival (Tết Hàn Thực) – 3rd day of the 3rd lunar month
Cold Food Festival is a festival celebrated to honor ancestors and preserving family traditions. On this occasion, Vietnamese people make bánh trôi and bánh chay, traditional rice cakes symbolizing gratitude and togetherness. Although it originated from China, Cold Food Festival in Vietnam does not involve fire abstinence but rather emphasizes ancestral worship and filial piety. This festival reflects the unique cultural beauty of Vietnam and helps preserve the national identity.
Conclusion
Each event is a unique way for Vietnamese people to express joy, unity, and gratitude. Whether you love traditional cultural festivals or vibrant, colorful celebrations, Vietnam celebrations and festivals will surely give you unforgettable experiences. If you’re looking for a journey filled with color and meaning, don’t miss the chance to immerse yourself in incredible Vietnam festivals — where tradition and happiness go hand in hand!
Besides the festivals, don’t miss out on Vietnam’s unique dishes!
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