Hoi An Lantern Festival: 2018 dates

With an array of architectural styles, a charming laidback atmosphere, and some of the country’s loveliest food, UNESCO World Heritage town Hoi An is a popular stop for first – and second and third – timers to Vietnam. The town is an attraction in itself, and you could easily lose a few days strolling around its pretty streets, stopping at cafes to sup iced coffees as you watch the world go by.

Hoi An Lantern Festival 2018

Looking for the 2019 festival dates? Click here.

Lanterns strung across the streets of Hoi An
Lanterns strung across the streets of Hoi An

There is something else that draws visitors here though – the monthly Hoi An lantern festival. On the night of the full moon, buzzing motorbikes fall silent, and bright lights are swapped with silk lanterns and tea-light candles.


6 of the best things to do in Hoi An, Vietnam


Traditionally, locals would burn incense for good luck, and make offerings at family altars on the day of the festival. Lighting a small lantern and sending it down the river is also a popular custom; by the end of the evening, hundreds of brightly coloured lanterns can be seen floating into the distance.

As peaceful as this twinkly ceremony seems, it isn’t a secret – as the full moon peaks, tourists flock to the town. Streets can be noisy with jolly revellers and the odd sound system, but it’s a lot of fun. If you want escape the crowds though, you can pootle down the river, past the twinkling town, on a sampan boat. Alternatively, spending time in nearby pagodas can be as special as casting your lantern, with monks holding candle-lit ceremonies in the evening.


Vietnamese etiquette and customs cheat sheet


If you’re not in town for the lantern festival, or it doesn’t sound like your thing, rest assured that night-time Hoi An is always lovely. Dip into one of many restaurants, browse the night market, and take to a terrace for a digestif as the evening draws in.

Colourful lanterns in Hoi An, Vietnam
Colourful lanterns in Hoi An

Top tips for the Hoi An Lantern Festival 2018:

– The first full moon of the year is the most celebrated, so prepare for a party!

– Arrive early to give yourself the best vantage point of the river. As mentioned, the town can get pretty busy

– Take a ride on a sampan to see the lanterns from the water

– Bring a lanyard for your camera, you don’t want to see it too float down the river.

– There isn’t a lantern festival in February 2018

2018

30th January, 2018

February – there isn’t a Hoi An Lantern Festival in February 2018

1st March, 2018

30th March, 2018

29th April, 2018

28th May, 2018

27th June, 2018

26th July, 2018

24th August, 2018

23rd September, 2018

22nd October, 2018

20th November, 2018

20th December, 2018

2019

Click here to see the 2019 Hoi An Lantern Festival dates.

Get in touch with our team to plan your visit to the Hoi An Lantern Festival 2018.

The dates for Hoi An Lantern Festival 2018
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