Festivals In Hanoi: Top 6 Traditional Festivals Should Visit

Hanoi is well-known for its festivals, which combine traditions, history, and vibrant celebrations. Each festival, whether commemorating historical victories like the Dong Da Festival or embracing spiritual journeys like the Perfume Pagoda Festival, welcomes both locals and visitors to participate in colorful rituals, cultural performances, and heartfelt traditions. These festivals weave a vivid tapestry of Vietnam's past, present, and lasting cultural legacy, providing a profound glimpse into the soulful essence of Hanoi's lively celebrations.

Let’s find out the top traditional festivals in Hanoi with Hanoi Voyages!

Festivals in Hanoi should visit

Giong Festival

The Giong Festival is regarded as one of the oldest and most popular festivals in Hanoi. It holds tremendous significance and distinction, having earned prestigious recognition as an intangible cultural heritage of humanity by UNESCO.

It honors the legendary figure in Vietnamese folklore, Saint Giong (Thánh Gióng). Giong Festival began to be held in the 11th century during the reign of King Ly Thai To. The Giong festival was held every year from the Ly dynasty to the Le dynasty and later dynasties.

Giong Festival is not simply a traditional festival but also has deep cultural significance. The festival vividly recreates the epic battle between Thanh Giong and the An enemy and honors the Van Lang people's courage and steadfast will in the war to defend the country.

The Giong Festival serves as a platform for preserving and promoting Vietnam's rich cultural heritage, fostering a sense of community and national pride.

Time: 6th - 8th days of January (Lunar calendar)

Perfume Pagoda Festival

The Perfume Pagoda Festival, known as Huong Pagoda Festival, is an annual religious and cultural event held in Hanoi's Huong Son Commune.

It's a sacred Buddhist site set among picturesque limestone mountains. Visitors to the pagoda during this time are said to bring blessings, prosperity and spiritual fulfillment. Pilgrims make their way to the Perfume Pagoda by boating along the Yen Stream and hiking up to the pagoda complex, passing through caves and natural landscapes.

Along the pilgrimage route and at the pagoda complex, there are various cultural activities, including performances of traditional music, folk dances, and offerings made at the shrines and temples. Tourists can immerse themselves in the festival's vibrant ambiance as the temple is adorned with resplendent garlands, flickering candles, and shimmering gold accents for three months.

Time: 6th day of January - March (Lunar calendar)

Thay Pagoda Festival

Thay Pagoda Festival is considered the one of the most meaningful festivals in Hanoi. It is also known as the Thay Pagoda Water Puppet Festival, is a revered annual event held in Hanoi's Quoc Oai District.

Thay Pagoda Festival is held in honor of Tu Dao Hanh, a revered Vietnamese Buddhist monk who lived from 1010 to 1225. Thay Pagoda Festival is a religious festival with traditional musical instruments that draws a large crowd. Many people came to learn about the region's cultural characteristics.

A unique feature of this festival is the traditional water puppetry performances held on the water of the pagoda's pond. These performances depict legends, historical stories, and local folklore. Besides the water puppetry, visitors can enjoy other cultural performances, including traditional music, dances, and folk singing, showcasing the richness of Vietnamese heritage.

Time: 5th - 7th days of March (Lunar calendar)

Co Loa Citadel Festival

Co Loa Citadel Festival is regarded as one of the most meaningful festivals in Hanoi. It is held at Co Loa Ancient Citadel and commemorates the legendary origins and historical significance of this ancient site.

Co Loa Citadel is a significant historical site that is thought to have been the capital of the ancient kingdom of Au Lac during the third century BC. The festival honors its rich history and legends associated with King An Duong Vuong.

The festival includes a variety of cultural performances, folk games, dragon dances, and traditional music, offering visitors an insight into ancient Vietnamese customs and traditions.

Time: January 6th - 16th (Lunar calendar)

Dong Da Festival

Another festival not to be missed is the Go Dong Da Festival. The Dong Da festival commemorates the famous Ngoc Hoi - Dong Da victory achieved by the heroic figure of Quang Trung.

During the festival, there are various cultural performances, martial arts demonstrations, and traditional music and dance performances that showcase Vietnamese folklore and the spirit of patriotism.

Furthermore, the lion dance performances are the most anticipated activities for both locals and tourists. The performance was performed by young artists demonstrating the heroic spirit and strength of the nation. Amid the roaring drums and cheers of everyone, you will feel excited about a bustling festival at the beginning of the year.

Not only is it an annual cultural and historical activity, Dong Da Mound Festival is also an opportunity for people and tourists to review the glorious history of the nation, evoking the spirit of patriotism, solidarity and solidarity. self-respect in each person. Therefore, if you are planning to have fun in Hanoi in the first days of the year, do not miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of this unique festival.

Time: 5th day of January (Lunar calendar)

Bat Trang Pottery Village Festival

Bat Trang Pottery Village Festival is a special celebration that honors the revered pottery tradition passed down through generations while also expressing the local people's desire for a prosperous and happy life. This enchanting festival offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the village.

Along with the rituals and games, there is a ceramic exhibition featuring the most special products displayed at the village's Bat Trang Pottery Market. Visitors coming here will admire the extremely delicate traditional products cared for by Bat Trang artisans. After viewing and learning, you can also stop by the stall to buy a few items such as souvenirs made from ceramics, household items, decorations and so on. Bat Trang ceramics are known for their durability, beauty and high quality.

Time: 14th-16th days of February (Lunar calendar)