Local Festivals and Events in Ho Chi Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC), the largest city in Vietnam, is a vibrant metropolis that offers a rich tapestry of experiences, including various local festivals and events. Here are some notable annual celebrations you might want to include in your travel itinerary.

Tet Nguyen Dan (Vietnamese New Year)

Tet Nguyen Dan is the most significant festival in Vietnam, marking the lunar new year. Usually taking place between late January and mid-February, this joyous event is celebrated with family gatherings, traditional rituals, colorful parades, and offering incense to ancestors.

Reunification Day (April 30) and National Day (September 2)

These two public holidays commemorate significant milestones in Vietnam’s history. Reunification Day celebrates the liberation of Saigon on April 30, 1975, while National Day marks the establishment of the unified Socialist Republic of Vietnam on September 2, 1945. During these occasions, there are various cultural events and parades in HCMC.

Mid-Autumn Festival (15th day of the 8th lunar month)

The Mid-Autumn Festival, also known as Tet Trung Thu, is a time for family reunions, lantern displays, and mooncake eating. In HCMC, you can enjoy traditional performances, such as water puppetry and lion dances, at parks like Ho Thi Ky Flower Street and Nguyen Huu Canh Street.

Ho Chi Minh City Marathon

If you’re a fitness enthusiast, consider participating in the annual Ho Chi Minh City International Marathon. This event takes place every December, attracting runners from around the world to compete in various distances, from 3km fun runs to full marathons.

HCMC Food Festival

Foodies will appreciate the HCMC Food Festival, showcasing a vast array of traditional Vietnamese dishes alongside international cuisines. This annual event takes place at the end of October or early November and offers cooking demonstrations, food stalls, and live music performances.