Lanterns & Legends: Celebrate Lunar New Year in Magical Hoi An

Experience the magic of Lunar New Year like never before in Hoi An, Vietnam’s most enchanting ancient town. As the Tết holiday approaches, this UNESCO World Heritage Site transforms into a living fairytale of color, culture, and celebration — making it one of the most unforgettable places to ring in the Vietnamese New Year. Wander the cobbled streets of Hoi An’s Old Town, where centuries-old yellow buildings are draped in red banners, silk lanterns, and festive floral displays. The scent of incense floats through the air as families visit temples to honor ancestors, and lion dancers leap to the rhythmic beat of drums in vibrant street performances. Every corner of Hoi An pulses with joy, tradition, and the hope of a prosperous new year. At night, the Thu Bồn River comes alive with glowing lanterns released onto the water, each carrying a wish for good fortune. Join the crowds at the Lantern Festival, held on the eve of the Lunar New Year, and witness the town illuminated in a dazzling array of colors — a breathtaking moment you’ll never forget. Local markets brim with Tết delicacies like bánh tét (sticky rice cake), candied coconut, and sweet lotus seeds, while boutique shops and cafés offer festive deals and limited-time treats. Don’t miss the chance to dress in traditional áo dài for the perfect photo amid lantern-lit alleyways. Whether you’re sipping herbal tea in a riverside café, taking part in cultural workshops, or simply soaking up the festive atmosphere, Hoi An during Lunar New Year is a soul-stirring blend of heritage and celebration. Plan your visit early — accommodations fill fast during this magical time. Celebrate new beginnings in a town where every lantern tells a story and every moment feels timeless.