| Year | Festival date | Lanterns in the Old Quarter |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 25 September (past) | early to mid September |
| 2027 | Wednesday 15 September | to be confirmed, probably late August to early September |
What you see and do
The festival is above all for children: star- and fish-shaped lanterns, masks, lion dances and mooncakes (bánh trung thu) to give and share. The best place to stroll is Hang Ma Street, in the Old Quarter, in the evening when the lanterns are lit. On weekends the pedestrian streets around the lake are lively too: see the weekend pedestrian streets.
How to enjoy it
- Arrive in the late afternoon: the street is very busy, especially around the date.
- Try a mooncake: with bean paste, lotus or salted egg yolk depending on the shop.
- A guided night or food tour gives context and avoids getting lost in the crowd: see the Hanoi food tour and Hanoi by night.
- If you come in September: book the hotel early and check the weather (September in Vietnam).
FAQ
When is the Mid-Autumn Festival in Hanoi? 25 September in 2026, 15 September in 2027.
Is it a public holiday? No, but the mood is festive for several days before.
Where can I see the lanterns? Hang Ma Street, in the Old Quarter.
