The Lantern Festival in Hoi An shines brightly on the Hoai River when the lanterns' lights flicker, making the entire Old Town of Hoi An even more enchanting with the shimmering lights from lanterns and floating flower lanterns on the water.
History and Meaning of the Hoi An Lantern Festival
The Hoi An Lantern Festival is held on the 14th and 15th days of each lunar month. Originally, this is a traditional festival of the Chinese people in Hoi An to honor their saints and ancestors. The Lantern Festival marks the harmonious blend of South Asian and Western cultures, becoming a symbol of the diversity and creativity of the people of Hoi An.
The Hoi An Lantern Festival also has great spiritual significance for both tourists and locals. Releasing lanterns carries wishes for wealth, health, and peace for oneself and one's family. Watching the lanterns float along the Hoai River, you will feel a stronger hope that your desires can come true. Nowadays, the lantern festival attracts not only the participation of locals but also international tourists. It is a great opportunity to explore the unique culture and traditions of Vietnam.
Best Spots for Releasing Lanterns in Hoi An
To participate in the Hoi An lantern festival, you first need to buy several lanterns. Then, you have two ideal locations to experience releasing lanterns:
- Along the Hoai River: Some tourists who are afraid to go on the river or sit in a boat can choose to sit on the riverbank and bend down to release the lantern. However, you should choose areas with stairs close to the water's surface to ensure safety.
- Sitting on a lantern-releasing boat: Sitting on a boat, you will hear emotional stories from the boatmen. Breathe in the cool air, admire the ancient scenery on both sides of the river, and gently release the lanterns into the water.
Lanterns are sold in large numbers in the area near the Hoai River. You can buy one, two, three, or more as you wish. Then light the lantern, let it float along the Hoai River. Don't forget to write your wishes on it and make your dreams come true!
(*) Reference prices:
The lantern price is VND 10,000 per lantern, and the boat sitting fee ranges from VND 90,000 to VND 120,000 per boat.
Main Activities of the Hoi An Lantern Festival
The Hoi An Lantern Festival features many attractive activities that draw a large number of participants, including:
The lantern release ceremony is the main activity of the festival. On the full moon night of each month, locals and tourists in Hoi An gather to release lanterns into the Hoai River. The sparkling and radiant lanterns create a romantic and magical scene.
The art performance program and traditional games are essential parts of the festival. In this program, art groups perform dances, songs, traditional musical instruments, and folk games. Cultural and culinary activities are also organized as part of the festival. Tourists can participate in activities such as painting, making lanterns, and capturing memorable photos with the backdrop of the beautifully lit streets of Hoi An.
With the dazzling beauty of lanterns and a variety of cultural and entertainment activities, the Hoi An Lantern Festival promises to bring unforgettable experiences to you during your autumn trip to Hoi An.
Source: Compiled
