Festivals & Special Events in Ha Long – When Should You Visit?

Ha Long is not only famous for its stunning bay and breathtaking landscapes but also for its vibrant cultural festivals, which attract millions of visitors each year. If you want to fully experience Ha Long, visiting during major festivals is a great way to immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere and explore the local traditions.

Below is a list of Ha Long’s biggest festivals, along with their dates, so you can plan your trip accordingly!

1. Ha Long Carnival – The Most Exciting Street Festival

📅 Time: April – May every year
📍 Location: Hoang Quoc Viet Street, Bai Chay, Ha Long

The Ha Long Carnival is the largest tourism and cultural event in Quang Ninh, held in summer with colorful street parades, spectacular performances, and grand fireworks displays. This event attracts thousands of domestic and international tourists, creating a festive and lively atmosphere in the coastal city.

Highlight activities:

Street parades featuring dancers in vibrant costumes.

Live music and traditional performances.

Fireworks displays at Bai Chay Beach.

👉 Tip: If you want to experience Ha Long at its most lively and festive, visit during the Carnival season. Book your hotel early, as accommodations fill up quickly.

2. Cua Ong Temple Festival – A Significant Spiritual Event

📅 Time: March & August in the Lunar Calendar (April & September in the Gregorian Calendar)
📍 Location: Cua Ong Temple, Cam Pha, Quang Ninh

The Cua Ong Temple Festival is one of the largest traditional festivals in Quang Ninh, held to honor Tran Quoc Tang, the son of General Tran Hung Dao, for his contributions to protecting Vietnam. Locals gather to pray for peace, prosperity, and good fortune.

🙏 Highlight activities:

Processions and incense offerings at the temple.

Traditional drum performances and Cheo folk singing.

Folk games such as wrestling and human chess.

👉 Tip: This festival is perfect for those interested in spiritual tourism. You can combine your visit with a tour of Ha Long Bay and other nearby attractions.

3. Yen Tu Festival – A Journey to the Buddhist Land

📅 Time: From the 10th day of the first lunar month to the end of March (Lunar Calendar)
📍 Location: Yen Tu Relic Site, Uong Bi City, Quang Ninh

Yen Tu is known as the cradle of Vietnamese Truc Lam Zen Buddhism, where King Tran Nhan Tong practiced and founded the Truc Lam Zen sect. The Yen Tu Festival attracts millions of Buddhist followers and visitors every year.

Highlight activities:

Grand opening ceremony with solemn incense offerings.

Pilgrimage hike up Yen Tu Mountain or take the cable car to Dong Pagoda.

Experience meditation and spiritual serenity at ancient temples.

👉 Tip: If you are looking to explore Buddhist culture and seek tranquility, Yen Tu is an ideal destination. Be prepared for a challenging hike if you plan to trek to the summit.

4. Tien Cong Festival – A Unique Cultural Tradition of Quang Yen

📅 Time: 7th day of the first lunar month (Lunar Calendar)
📍 Location: Quang Yen, Quang Ninh

The Tien Cong Festival is one of the oldest and most unique festivals in Quang Ninh, held to honor the pioneers who established and cultivated the region.

Highlight activities:

Ceremonial procession of the elderly to Tien Cong Temple.

Folk performances, including dragon and lion dances.

Traditional contests such as banh chung (square sticky rice cake) and banh giay (round sticky rice cake) making competitions.

👉 Tip: This is a great opportunity to learn about the traditional culture of Quang Ninh. If you visit Quang Yen during this festival, don’t forget to try “banh chung gu”, a local specialty.

5. Quan Lan Festival – Commemorating Naval Heroes

📅 Time: 18th – 20th day of the sixth lunar month (Lunar Calendar)
📍 Location: Quan Lan Island, Quang Ninh

The Quan Lan Festival is held to commemorate the historic victory of the Tran Dynasty’s navy against Mongol invaders in the Northeast Sea.

Highlight activities:

Traditional procession of ceremonial palanquins around the island.

Exciting boat races, reenacting historic naval battles.

Folk games and seafood markets showcasing local cuisine.

👉 Tip: If you want to combine island travel with cultural experiences, visit during the Quan Lan Festival. You’ll witness both the sacred atmosphere and the lively energy of the event.

Final Thoughts: The Best Time to Visit Ha Long!

Ha Long’s festivals are not only cultural and historical events but also great opportunities for travelers to immerse themselves in local traditions. Whether you enjoy vibrant celebrations like Ha Long Carnival or seek spiritual journeys like the Yen Tu Festival, every time of the year offers unique experiences to explore.

🔥 Are you ready for a trip to Ha Long during the festival season? Plan now and don’t miss out on these incredible experiences!