In most Asian countries you’ll find cultural and ethnic groups gathering regularly to celebrate special events and enjoy their heritages. Vietnam, and especially the city of Hoi An, is no different. As a matter of fact, the people of Hoi An host at least seven different festivals each year. You’d be hard pressed to visit Hoi An during a time when a festival is not either forming or in celebration.

One of the most important festivals is the Long Chu Festival. The festival is always held on the 15th day of July to acknowledge the approach of the coming summer months. The summer months are, traditionally, the months during which the fishing villages tend to suffer from catastrophes such as plagues and epidemics. The festival is a special religious event designed to bring blessings to the area and protect the people from harm.

Another favorite is the Legendary Night Festival. Believe it or not, this festival is held not yearly, but monthly in order to pay respects to the moon and give thanks for its services. Also known as Full Moon Night, the people of Hoi An decorate the town with colorful lanterns and then do their best to spend the evening free of electrically powered lights while enjoying poetry readings, music, and togetherness. Even cars are forbidden on the streets of Hoi An during the festival.

Tags: Hoi An, Hoi An events, Hoi An festivals, Hoi An travel guide, Hoi An Vietnam