Hoi An Lantern Festival Guide 2025

Vietnam’s most photogenic night — lanterns, boats, food, and riverside magic.

INTRO — HOI AN AT NIGHT: PURE MAGIC

Hoi An during the day is pretty.
Hoi An at night is jaw-dropping.

The Lantern Festival transforms the ancient town into:

• glowing lantern alleys

• colorful riversides

• boats lit like floating fireflies

• peaceful music

• street food aromas

It’s one of Southeast Asia’s most romantic experiences — and December is peak season for great weather.

Let’s walk into the light.

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🏮 WHAT IS THE HOI AN LANTERN FESTIVAL?

Held on the 14th day of every lunar month, the festival includes:

• hand-lit lanterns floating on the Thu Bon River

• street closures (no motorbikes)

• glowing lantern shops

• night markets

• folk performances

• boat rides with candles

It’s cultural, peaceful, and visually stunning.

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🌕 WHY DECEMBER IS A GREAT MONTH

🌤️ 1. Dry, cool weather

Best month for evening walks.

🌃 2. Clear skies

Lantern colors pop more.

🎄 3. Festive energy

Hoi An does Christmas and New Year decorations too.

📸 4. Less humidity

Better photography.

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🚤 WHAT TO DO DURING THE LANTERN FESTIVAL

🛶 1. Lantern Boat Ride

Sit on a wooden sampan.
Place a floating lantern on the river.
Make a wish.
Take perfect photos.

Cost: 30,000–50,000 VND
Worth every dong.

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🏮 2. Walk Through Ancient Town

Lanterns hanging from:

• houses

• restaurants

• bridges

• balconies

• boats

• everywhere

It’s like stepping into a watercolor painting.

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🍢 3. Night Market Food

Try:

• banh mi

• grilled skewers

• Vietnamese pizza

• coconut ice cream

• mango sticky rice

Affordable, tasty, perfect for night vibes.

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🎭 4. Traditional Folk Performances

Live music, games, cultural shows around the river.

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🍜 WHAT TO EAT (DECEMBER MUST-EATS)

• Cao lầu noodles

• Mi Quang

• Banh Xeo

• Hoi An-style coffee

• Fresh spring rolls

Winter evenings + hot noodles = unbeatable.

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💸 PRICES

• Lanterns: 5,000–10,000 VND

• Boat rides: 30,000–50,000 VND

• Street food: 20,000–50,000 VND

• Tea houses: 40,000–80,000 VND

Hoi An is budget-friendly and romantic.

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📸 PHOTO TIPS

🎆 Best time:

6 PM – 8 PM

🎥 Best spots:

• Japanese Covered Bridge

• An Hoi Bridge

• Riverside footpaths

• Small alleys behind the market

⚙ Gear:

Low-light mode or tripod recommended.

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🧠 LESSONS FOR TRAVELERS, AGENCIES & REMOTE WORKERS

Travelers

One of the most magical nights in all of Asia.

Agencies

Lantern Festival tours (boat + food + walking) are extremely popular.

Remote Workers

Hoi An cafés are dreamy — ideal for “work + lanterns” lifestyle.

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❓ FAQ

Q: How crowded is it?
A: Busy, but not overwhelming.

Q: Is it safe?
A: Very — family-friendly.

Q: Do lanterns harm the river?
A: Eco-friendly versions are increasingly used.

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📢 CALL TO ACTION

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