When and where does the Lantern Festival take place in Hoi An?
The time and place to happen the Hoi An Lantern Festival
When does the Lantern Festival take place in Hoi An?
Enter a world where the moon's orbit around Earth casts a spell as you embark on a fascinating lunar voyage. But be careful - figuring out when a full moon will occur is like trying to catch a moonbeam. The full moon frequently greets us on the 15th or 16th day of lunar months, adapting and lengthening to 29 or 30 days. Expect surprises!
No matter what the moon decides, the festivities begin on the 14th day of the lunar calendar. Let's experience ageless traditions, bright hues, and old rituals for moments that defy space and time.
Where does the lantern festival take place in Hoi An?
It's all about the magical location next to the Cau An Hoi Bridge, the Lantern Bridge, and the Japanese Covered Bridge in the Ancient Town. The masses spill into An Hoi Islet, generating a lively bustle around the famous Cau An Hoi Bridge, and you won't believe the fantastic mood there.
The place to happen lantern festival is cau An Hoi bridge
However, the hypnotic "wish lanterns" and the spellbinding street performers steal the show in this dynamic environment, and they are the show's true stars. It's amazing to see, for sure!
History and Significance of the Hoi An Lantern Festival
Hoi An, a thriving port city and important commercial center, saw the creation of a unique custom throughout the 16th and 17th centuries: lanterns. Merchants from all over the world, especially the Japanese, swarmed Hoi An with various lantern styles.
The inhabitants started decorating their homes with lanterns after being inspired by the Japanese in an effort to invoke luck.
Hoi An has earned a reputation as a center for lanterns and has successfully retained its many different cultural influences throughout time. Local government officials decided to combine lantern enchantment with full-moon celebrations in 1998.
Since then, visitors from all over the world and citizens of Vietnam have enthusiastically traveled to Hoi An every month to take part in these joyful celebrations.
What to Expect at Hoi An Lantern Festival
There are many activities that you should try at least once at Hoi An lantern festival. But if your time is limited, here are the things to look forward to at this location:
Lantern Making
Making some stunning lanterns in Hoi An
Hoi An has a long history of creating lanterns dating back four centuries. More than 30 studios and 200 stores specializing in these stunning products are now in this little town.
In contrast to their contemporaries in Thailand, China, and Japan, Hoi An's lanterns have a unique charm. They are rich and bright and are made of luxurious cotton and silk. Expert craftsmen carefully craft the frames out of ancient bamboo, expertly sculpting them into various shapes, including famous figures from Vietnamese mythology and culture, such as dragons and phoenixes.
One must purchase at least one lantern since the result is a miracle of fragility, complexity, and uniqueness. Depending on size, prices range from 10,000 to 20,000 VND ( 0.43 - 0.85 dollars). Hoi An lanterns are wonderful presents for loved ones and offer a wonderful chance to fully experience the customary full moon festival celebrations.
Floating Lanterns: The Highlight of Hoi An Festival
Floating Lanterns at Hoai River
Beautiful paper flower lanterns are waiting for you at the riverside, ready for discharge into the captivating Hoai River. This intriguing custom is one of the most eagerly awaited events of the Hoi An lantern festival. These lanterns, made of colorful paper that has been precisely cut, emit a rainbow of hues. You can get each one for just 5,000 VND (0.21 dollar).
Set off in a sampan, a traditional wooden boat, and let it drift down the river's meandering course. An ancient notion takes hold when you cast your lantern over the water's surface.
Each lantern represents a longing for limitless joy, unwavering fortune, and profound tranquility. A tapestry of dazzling reflections covers the river as night falls, giving the impression that the stars themselves have landed on this ethereal world.
For more on this topic, read our top Vietnam's festival blog.
Enjoying Street Food and Fireworks
Enjoying street food and fireworks in Hoi An
Hoi An, a culinary haven in Vietnam, boasts an array of delectable delights. While cosmopolitan options abound, we recommend indulging in the local cuisine during your brief visit.
Don't miss out on the following regional specialties:
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Cao Lau: This dish, featuring roasted pork, greens, and rice noodles, draws inspiration from the Japanese influence on Hoi An, resembling the beloved soba noodles.
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Com Ga Hoi An: This dish resembles Hainanese chicken rice found in neighboring Singapore and Malaysia, which exemplifies the Chinese culinary impact. However, the chicken is shredded here and accompanied by local herbs and greens.
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Mi Quang: A quintessential Vietnamese pork dish, these rice noodles are tossed with succulent pork, prawns, and fresh herbs and served in a flavorful broth.
Tips for Planning Your Trip and Enjoying the Festival to the Fullest
Here is some priceless advice for you to properly enjoy the captivating Hoi An Lantern Festival:
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Secure your prized items by securing your phone to a lanyard and your camera to a wrist strap. By taking this precaution, you can be confident that none of your priceless possessions will ever unintentionally escape your grip when you take up close-up shots next to the river.
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Plan your trip for February, when the Hoi An Lantern Festival is at its height, for the most spectacular experience. The biggest display of all, this festival reaches its zenith on the first full moon of the lunar new year.
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Buy locally crafted lanterns for as little as 50 cents from neighboring merchants to embrace the community's culture. These sellers typically give you a long pole to help you drop the lantern onto the water's surface.
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To get a good viewing place, go there early and prepare for a flurry of people. The tranquil light of candle-lit waters is a favorite event among locals and visitors, and the river banks of Hoi An rapidly fill with anxious viewers wanting to see it.
Let our Hoi An Lantern Festival tour illuminate your path to a magical and unforgettable event. Learn about the mystique of lit-up streets and vivid festivals that will leave you with treasured memories that shine brilliantly. In the center of Hoi An, let the lights lead you on an unforgettable adventure. And if you are looking for quality Vietnam tour package, please contact us!
