Festivals In Hanoi: Top 10 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!

Top 10 must-see festivals in Hanoi

Hanoi is home to many vibrant cultural celebrations. The most famous include the Giong Festival, Thay pagoda Festival, Huong Pagoda Festival, Co Loa Festival or Dong Da Festival — each offering a unique glimpse into the city’s traditions and festive spirit.

Giong Festival

The Giong Festival is one of the oldest and most significant festivals in Hanoi, recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Celebrated annually since the 11th century under King Ly Thai To, the festival honors Saint Giong (Thánh Gióng), a legendary hero in Vietnamese folklore who symbolizes the spirit of resilience and patriotism.

Location: Soc Temple (Soc Son District) and Phu Dong Temple (Gia Lam District), Hanoi

Time: 6th – 8th days of the 1st Lunar month

When attending the Giong Festival, visitors can:

• Witness vibrant reenactments of the epic battle between Saint Giong and the invading An forces.

• Take part in solemn processions and rituals at Soc Temple and Phu Dong Temple.

• Enjoy traditional folk performances, including singing, dancing, and martial arts displays.

• Experience the strong sense of community and cultural pride that the festival brings.

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)

• Location: Huong Son Commune, My Duc District, Hanoi

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)

• Location: Quoc Oai district, Hanoi

Highlights of the Thay Pagoda Festival include:

• Traditional water puppetry performances on the pagoda’s pond, vividly portraying legends, historical stories, and local folklore.

• Cultural shows with folk singing, traditional dances, and musical instrument performances.

• Ritual ceremonies honoring Tu Dao Hanh, reflecting the deep spiritual roots of the region.

• Community gatherings where locals and visitors share in the festive spirit, exploring the cultural identity of Northern Vietnam.

Hai Ba Trung Temple Festival

The Hai Ba Trung Temple Festival is one of the most significant festivals in Hanoi, held annually to honor the national heroines Trung Trac and Trung Nhi, who led a historic uprising against foreign invaders in 40 AD. The festival takes place at Hai Ba Trung Temple in Dong Nhan Ward, Hai Ba Trung District, Hanoi, where the sisters are worshipped.

• Location: Hai Ba Trung Temple, Hai Ba Trung District, Hanoi

• Time: 6th day of the 2nd Lunar month

Highlights of the Hai Ba Trung Temple Festival include:

• Grand procession featuring offerings and reenactments of the Trung Sisters riding elephants into battle.

• Traditional ceremonies to pay tribute to their courage and patriotism.

• Folk games and cultural performances, such as wrestling, lion dances, and traditional music.

• Community participation, where locals and visitors join together to celebrate national pride and cultural heritage.

Mid-autumn festivals 

The Mid-Autumn Festival, also known as Tết Trung Thu, is one of the most beloved festivals in Hanoi, especially cherished by children and families. Taking place on the 15th day of the 8th Lunar month, the festival celebrates the harvest season, family reunion, and the beauty of the full moon.

• Location: Across Hanoi, with popular spots including Hoan Kiem Lake, the Old Quarter, and Hang Ma Street.

• Time: 15th day of the 8th Lunar month

Highlights of the Mid-Autumn Festival in Hanoi include:

• Colorful lantern displays, with Hang Ma Street becoming the epicenter of festive shopping and decoration.

• Lion and dragon dances performed in streets and communal yards, adding energy and excitement.

• Children’s activities, such as carrying star lanterns, playing folk games, and enjoying traditional performances.

• Mooncakes and festive treats, symbolizing reunion and happiness, shared among families and friends.

You can also refer: Mid-Autumn festival in Vietnam: Best local experiences

Vong La Festival

Among the traditional festivals in Hanoi, the Vong La Festival stands out for its strong cultural and communal values. Taking place at Dai Do Communal House in Vong La Commune, Dong Anh District, Hanoi, the festival is held to honor the Five Gods who are believed to protect and bless the local community.

• Location: Dai Do Communal House, Vong La Commune, Dong Anh District, Hanoi

• Time: January 13–15 (Lunar calendar), with an additional celebration in the 8th lunar month

Highlights of the festival include:

• Palanquin procession with villagers, lion dancers, and flag bearers.

• Cultural performances such as Quan Ho singing, Chèo opera, and lion dances.

• Traditional games like bamboo swing contests and Chinese chess.

• Worship rituals and offerings that reflect the village’s deep spiritual traditions.

Tan Vien Son Thanh Festival

The Tan Vien Son Thanh Festival is one of the most important traditional festivals in Hanoi, held annually to honor Tan Vien Son Thanh (Mountain God) – one of Vietnam’s “Four Immortals” in folklore. The festival takes place at Den Thuong (Upper Temple) in Ba Vi District, Hanoi, a sacred site surrounded by majestic mountains and forests.

• Location: Den Thuong Temple, Ba Vi District, Hanoi

• Time: From the 14th to 17th day of the first lunar month

Tan Vien Son Thanh festival highlights include:

• Grand ceremonies to pay tribute to Tan Vien Son Thanh, reflecting deep spiritual devotion.

• Colorful processions featuring traditional costumes, flags, and offerings.

• Cultural performances such as Cheo opera, folk singing, and traditional dances.

• Folk games and activities that bring together locals and visitors in a lively atmosphere.

Co Loa Citadel Festival

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

• Location: Co Loa Ancient Citadel, Dong Anh District, Hanoi

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.

Dong Da Festival

Among the most patriotic festivals in Hanoi, the Go Dong Da Festival is held annually to commemorate the Ngoc Hoi – Dong Da victory led by national hero Emperor Quang Trung. Taking place at Dong Da Mound, Hanoi, this festival is both a historical remembrance and a lively cultural event.

• Location: Dong Da Mound, Dong Da District, Hanoi

• Time: 5th day of the first lunar month

Dong Da festival highlights include:

• Martial arts demonstrations reenacting the heroic victory.

• Traditional music and dance performances reflecting Vietnamese folklore.

• Lion dances accompanied by roaring drums, creating an energetic and festive atmosphere.

• Ceremonial rituals and community gatherings that honor patriotism, unity, and national pride.

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)

• Location: Bat Trang Pottery Village, Gia Lam District, Hanoi

Some notices when enjoying festivals in Hanoi

Attending the traditional festivals in Hanoi is an incredible way to experience the city’s rich culture, history, and community spirit.However, to fully enjoy these celebrations and participate respectfully, it’s important to keep a few key points in mind:

• Check the festival dates in advance – most festivals follow the lunar calendar, so the schedule changes every year.

• Arrive early – popular festivals can get crowded quickly, and arriving early ensures you don’t miss the main ceremonies or performances.

• Dress appropriately – modest clothing is recommended, especially for temple or pagoda festivals.

• Carry cash – many local vendors and stalls do not accept cards, so having cash on hand is convenient.

• Keep your belongings safe – crowded areas may attract pickpockets.

• Respect local customs – follow etiquette, such as removing shoes before entering sacred areas and observing local rituals.

• Prepare for the weather – many events are outdoors, so consider hats, sunscreen, or rain gear depending on the season.

Experiencing the top 10 festivals in Hanoi gives you a unique opportunity to dive into the city’s rich cultural heritage, colorful traditions, and lively community spirit. From historic ceremonies at Co Loa Citadel and Tan Vien Son Thanh Festival to playful activities at the Mid-Autumn Festival, each event tells a story of Vietnam’s history, folklore, and local way of life. Attending these festivals allows you to witness spectacular performances, taste authentic local delicacies, and engage directly with the vibrant traditions of Hanoi. 

 Make your trip unforgettable—plan your visit around these incredible festivals in Hanoi and immerse yourself in the city’s festive magic!