Vietnamese Women’s Day 20/10: History, Meaning and Celebration

What is October 20th in Vietnam?

Every year on October 20th – Vietnamese Women’s Day, women across the country including grandmothers, mothers, wives, sisters, and colleagues are honoured with flowers, gifts, and heartfelt wishes.

But have you ever wondered what October 20th truly represents, as well as its history and meaning?

On this special occasion, Hebemart.vn brings you detailed information about the origin, history, meaning, and celebrations of Vietnamese Women’s Day 20/10.

1. What is Vietnamese Women’s Day (October 20th)?

October 20th (20/10) is officially known as Vietnamese Women’s Day. It is a national celebration held annually to honour the contributions and sacrifices of Vietnamese women.

This is the day when men express their love and respect by sending flowers, greeting cards, gifts, and warm wishes to their beloved women—grandmothers, mothers, wives, girlfriends, sisters, and colleagues.

Vietnamese Women’s Day was first established on October 20, 1930, marking the foundation of the Vietnamese Anti-Imperialist Women’s Association (later renamed the Vietnam Women’s Union). To commemorate this milestone, the Communist Party of Vietnam decided to dedicate October 20th every year to celebrating and honouring Vietnamese women.

📌 Note: Vietnamese Women’s Day (October 20th) is different from International Women’s Day (March 8th). While March 8th is recognised globally by the United Nations, October 20th is a national celebration specifically dedicated to Vietnamese women.

2. The Origin and History of Vietnamese Women’s Day

The history of October 20th is deeply connected to the struggle and contributions of Vietnamese women throughout different periods:

During feudal and colonial times: Vietnamese women were oppressed but many rose up in revolutionary movements such as the Can Vuong, Dong Du, and Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc. Names like Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, Hoang Thi Ai, Ton Thi Que remain inspiring symbols.
From 1927: Women’s organisations such as Red Associations and mutual aid groups were established, attracting thousands of women to revolutionary activities.
February 3, 1930: The Communist Party of Vietnam highlighted gender equality in its first platform, affirming women’s essential role in national liberation.
October 20, 1930: The Vietnamese Anti-Imperialist Women’s Association was founded, officially marking October 20th as Vietnamese Women’s Day.
During the wars against France and the US: countless women became heroes—joining resistance forces, serving as youth volunteers, guerrillas, or silently supporting soldiers on the home front.
March 8, 1965: President Ho Chi Minh honoured Vietnamese women with the golden words: “Heroic, Indomitable, Loyal, Courageous.”

Since then, October 20th has been celebrated every year to acknowledge women’s sacrifices, resilience, and invaluable role in society.

3. The Meaning of Vietnamese Women’s Day (20/10)

Vietnamese Women’s Day carries profound significance:

It marks the historical foundation of a national women’s organisation.
It recognises the contributions of mothers, wives, sisters, and daughters in every field.
It affirms gender equality—granting women rights in politics, education, and leadership.
It highlights the role of women in family and society—from entrepreneurs and artists to the unsung heroines in every household.
Most importantly, it is a day for everyone, especially men, to show love, respect, and gratitude to the women they cherish.

4. How Vietnamese Women’s Day is Celebrated (October 20th)

Across the country, various activities are held to celebrate this meaningful day:

Cultural performances: music shows, plays, and stories dedicated to women.
Events and parties: companies and organisations often host gatherings, award ceremonies, and appreciation programs.
Awards and recognition: honouring women with outstanding achievements in different fields.
Promotions and discounts: shopping malls, fashion stores, and online platforms launch special offers for women.
Charity activities: visiting and supporting disadvantaged women, single mothers, and heroic Vietnamese mothers.
Gift-giving traditions: men prepare meaningful presents such as flowers, cards, jewellery, cosmetics, or even simple yet heartfelt gestures like cooking a meal.

👉 Common greeting: “Happy Vietnamese Women’s Day”.

5. Popular Gift Ideas for October 20th

Fresh flowers and greeting cards
Fashion and beauty products
Books, accessories, or jewellery
A romantic dinner or homemade meal
Shopping vouchers or wellness experiences

6. Best Wishes for Vietnamese Women’s Day 20/10

Besides gifts, heartfelt wishes make the day even more special. Simple yet sincere messages of love and appreciation are always cherished.

Conclusion

Through this article, you now know what October 20th is, its history, and the meaning of Vietnamese Women’s Day.

This annual celebration is not only a reminder of women’s sacrifices and contributions but also a chance for everyone to express love and gratitude to the most important women in their lives.

👉 Don’t forget to celebrate and say: Happy Vietnamese Women’s Day!