Mid-Autumn Festival in Hoi An 2025: Dates, Locations, Things to Do & Travel Tips

The Mid-Autumn Festival in Hoi An is one of Vietnam’s most enchanting cultural events, where the ancient town bursts into a spectacular display of colours, lights, and traditional festivities. With glowing lanterns lining every street, lively lion dances, folk games, and the serene beauty of floating lanterns drifting along the Hoai River, this celebration offers a magical experience for travellers from around the world.

1. When & Where Does the Mid-Autumn Festival in Hoi An Take Place?

The Mid-Autumn Festival (Tết Trung Thu in Vietnamese) is celebrated on the 15th day of the 8th lunar month, but in Hoi An, the festivities span four days – from the 12th to the 15th lunar day. In 2025, this will fall around September in the Gregorian calendar.

The heart of the celebration is Hoi An Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its well-preserved architecture and rich cultural heritage. During the festival, the town transforms into a wonderland of lanterns, handcrafted masks, and street performances.

More than just a visual feast, the Mid-Autumn Festival in Hoi An preserves centuries-old traditions such as lantern making, lion dance head crafting, and the preparation of mooncakes and festive fruit trays. The event reflects Hoi An’s history as an international trading port, blending Vietnamese customs with cultural influences from China, Japan, and beyond.

2. The Cultural Significance of the Mid-Autumn Festival in Hoi An

In Vietnam, the Mid-Autumn Festival is traditionally a celebration for children, but in Hoi An, it has evolved into a community-wide event that brings together locals and tourists alike. It is a time for family reunions, gratitude to ancestors, and prayers for happiness and prosperity.

The festival also serves as a showcase for Hoi An’s artisans, from lantern makers to traditional musicians and performers. Many of these skills have been passed down for generations, and the festival helps keep them alive in the modern era.

3. Best Experiences at the Hoi An Mid-Autumn Festival

3.1. Admire the Lantern-Lit Streets

From the moment the sun sets, the streets of Hoi An glow with thousands of lanterns in every colour and shape imaginable – from classic round silk lanterns to elaborate animal designs. Hanging a lantern is believed to bring good fortune and peace, and the sight of the entire town illuminated is nothing short of magical.

3.2. Watch Traditional Lion Dances

The lion dances of Hoi An are vibrant and full of energy, with drumming rhythms that resonate through the streets. The lion heads are intricately crafted by local artisans, and each performance is a blend of athleticism, artistry, and joyful mischief from the “Ông Địa” (Earth God) mascot.

3.3. Take a Boat Ride & Release Floating Lanterns

One of the most iconic Mid-Autumn activities in Hoi An is taking a small wooden boat along the Hoai River at night. Tourists light a candle inside a paper lantern, make a wish, and release it onto the water – a tradition symbolising peace, blessings, and the fulfilment of heartfelt hopes.

3.4. Join Traditional Folk Games

Whether it’s Bài Chòi (a cross between bingo and folk singing), blindfolded pot breaking, or singing competitions, the games are a joyful way to immerse yourself in Vietnamese culture. Tourists are welcome to participate, and laughter fills the air until late into the night.

3.5. Capture the Perfect Mid-Autumn Photo

Every corner of Hoi An during this festival is picture-perfect. Shops and restaurants decorate with Mid-Autumn themes – full moons, moon rabbits, Sister Hang & Uncle Cuoi, and trays of mooncakes. You’ll find countless photo opportunities that will light up your social media feed.

4. Local Food to Try During the Festival

A trip to Hoi An during the Mid-Autumn Festival is also a culinary adventure. In addition to the famous Hoi An specialties like Cao Lau noodles, Banh Mi, and White Rose dumplings, you can sample:

Mooncakes – both traditional and creative modern flavours.
Bánh dẻo & bánh nướng – soft and baked Vietnamese mooncakes.
Mâm ngũ quả – decorative trays of five fruits symbolising prosperity.
Sweet soups & chè – traditional Vietnamese desserts.

5. Best Places to Visit During the Festival

5.1. Traditional Tea Houses

Enjoy a quiet moment away from the bustling streets by visiting a traditional tea house. Sip fragrant tea, taste mooncakes, and watch the lantern-lit streets from a cosy corner.

5.2. Hoi An Lantern Street

Perhaps the most photogenic part of the festival, Lantern Street becomes a dazzling tunnel of light and colour. It’s a perfect place for evening strolls and unforgettable photos.

6. Travel Tips for the Mid-Autumn Festival in Hoi An 2025

Book early – Hotels in Hoi An are in high demand during the festival period.
Arrive before sunset – The streets become more crowded as night falls.
Bring cash – Many street vendors and boat operators don’t accept cards.
Join a guided tour – Local guides can help you experience hidden spots and explain cultural traditions.
Respect traditions – When participating in religious or cultural activities, be mindful of local customs.