Hoi An Lantern Festival Guide – Dates, Tickets, Photo Spots & Travel Tips (Updated 2026)

The Hoi An Lantern Festival is one of the most enchanting cultural events in Vietnam. Once a month, the ancient town turns off modern electric lights and transforms into a glowing wonderland of silk lanterns, candlelit streets, and floating wishes on the river.

If you’re planning to visit Hội An, this complete guide will help you understand:

• ✔ Festival dates (based on lunar calendar)

• ✔ Ticket information & costs

• ✔ Best photo spots

• ✔ Boat rides & lantern release

• ✔ Travel tips from local experts

• ✔ How to get there from Đà Nẵng

1. What Is the Hoi An Lantern Festival?

The Lantern Festival (also known as the Full Moon Festival) takes place on the 14th day of every lunar month in the UNESCO-listed Old Town of Hội An.

On this special night:

• Electric lights are turned off in many streets

• Thousands of colorful lanterns illuminate the town

• Traditional music and folk performances fill the air

• Locals and visitors release floating lanterns for luck and happiness

• The atmosphere becomes peaceful, romantic, and deeply cultural

Unlike large commercial festivals, this celebration keeps its traditional charm and reflects the spiritual beauty of central Vietnam.

2. Hoi An Lantern Festival Dates 2026

The festival follows the Vietnamese lunar calendar, so the exact date changes every month.

🗓 It always happens on the 14th lunar day (one day before the full moon).

⏰ Time:

• Starts around 5:30 – 6:00 PM (sunset)

• Most beautiful between 7:00 – 9:00 PM

• Ends around 9:30 – 10:00 PM

👉 Travel Tip: Arrive before 5:30 PM to avoid traffic congestion and enjoy sunset photos.

If you need help checking the correct festival date for your travel month, feel free to contact our team.

4. Best Photo Spots During the Lantern Festival

The Lantern Festival is a dream for photographers and Instagram lovers. Here are the top locations:

🌉 1. Japanese Covered Bridge

Chùa Cầu
The symbol of Hoi An. The lantern reflections on the water create stunning night photos.

🌊 2. Hoai River Boat Ride

Sông Hoài
Taking a wooden boat ride is the most iconic festival experience.

• Boat price: 150,000 – 200,000 VND per boat

• Floating lantern: 10,000 – 20,000 VND each

Releasing a lantern on the river is believed to bring good luck and peace.

🌈 3. An Hoi Bridge & Night Market

An Hội Bridge
A vibrant area with colorful lantern displays and lively street energy.

🏮 4. Tran Phu Street

Trần Phú Street
The heart of the Old Town with yellow ancient houses and hanging lanterns everywhere.

5. What to Expect on Festival Night

Here’s what visitors usually experience:

• Large crowds after 7:00 PM

• Romantic candlelight atmosphere

• Traditional folk games

• Bai Choi singing performances

• Street vendors selling handmade lanterns

• Local families participating in rituals

The energy is festive but still gentle and cultural — very different from loud modern city festivals.

8. Private Car Transfer to Hoi An Lantern Festival

Attending the Hoi An Lantern Festival is one of the most magical experiences in central Vietnam — but festival nights can also mean heavy traffic, limited parking, and crowded drop-off points near the Old Town. That’s why private car transfer is one of the most recommended ways to travel between Da Nang (or nearby areas) and Hoi An.

🚗 Why Choose a Private Car?

Booking a private car transfer ensures you enjoy:

✔ Door-to-door service — pick up at your hotel and drop-off right near the Old Town
✔ No parking stress — avoid searching for limited festival parking
✔ Timely pickup & flexible schedule — you choose when to go and when to return
✔ Comfortable ride — ideal for families, groups, and travelers with luggage
✔ English support available — easy communication throughout your trip

Whether you’re staying in Đà Nẵng, Hoi An, or along the coastline, a private transfer lets you relax and focus on enjoying the festival.

👉 Discover our private car transfer routes, pricing, and hassle-free booking here:
https://danangtransfer.vn/en/danang-private-car/private-car-transfer-from-da-nang-to-hoi-an/

🕐 Best Strategy for Festival Nights

• Pre-book your car well before your travel date — festival nights are busy!

• Schedule pickup before sunset (around 5:30–6:00 PM) to avoid traffic and secure good photo locations.

• Arrange return pickup time in advance, especially if you want to leave after 9:00 PM.

🎯 Recommended Routes

📞 Book with Confidence

Our team at Danang Transfer ensures prompt service, reliable drivers, and comfortable vehicles for all kinds of travelers — solo, couples, families, or groups.

📩 Email: danangtransfer.Co@gmail.com
📱 WhatsApp: +84-0905442279
📞 Hotline: 0905 442 279

Traveling with a private car not only makes your Lantern Festival night easier — it helps you enjoy every moment, from sunset photos to peaceful river views. Let us take care of the ride so you can focus on making unforgettable memories!

9. Important Travel Tips

• Wear comfortable walking shoes

• Bring small cash for boats and lanterns

• Keep personal belongings secure in crowded areas

• Avoid blocking narrow streets for photos

• Respect local traditions

• Check weather forecast if visiting during rainy season

If traveling with children or elderly family members, consider arriving earlier to avoid peak crowds.

10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is the Lantern Festival held every night?

No. It is only on the 14th day of each lunar month.

Is it very crowded?

Yes, especially during peak tourist seasons and Vietnamese public holidays.

Can I release sky lanterns?

No. Only floating lanterns on the river are allowed.

Is it suitable for couples?

Absolutely. It is considered one of the most romantic cultural experiences in Vietnam