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February is the perfect time to explore Hanoi, a city rich in culture and history. This month is not only the beginning of spring with its pleasant weather but also an opportunity to immerse yourself in traditional festivals and vibrant cultural events that showcase Vietnam’s unique heritage.
Here are some must-visit festivals when you travel to Hanoi in February:
Time: From the 1st to the 3rd day of the Lunar New Year (often falling in February on the Gregorian calendar)
Location: Throughout Hanoi
Tet, also known as the Lunar New Year, is the most important holiday in Vietnam. During this time, Hanoi becomes more vibrant than ever. If you arrive in Hanoi a week before Tet, you’ll experience the bustling atmosphere as people prepare for the holiday by decorating homes, arranging traditional dishes, and shopping for peach blossoms and apricot flowers.
During Tet, you can visit temples to pray for good luck, take a leisurely stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake, or wander through the Old Quarter and Hang Ma Street to admire colorful decorations.
A unique aspect of Tet in Hanoi is the sight of "ông đồ" (calligraphers) writing traditional script on red paper, which symbolizes good fortune. Additionally, don’t miss the spectacular fireworks displays on New Year’s Eve and the warm, cozy moments of enjoying Tet dishes like bánh chưng (square sticky rice cake), braised carp, and pickled vegetables. These experiences provide an authentic taste of Hanoi’s festive spirit.
Time: The 6th day of the Lunar New Year (usually in early February)
Location: Co Loa Temple, Co Loa Commune, Dong Anh District, Hanoi
Co Loa Festival is one of Vietnam’s most ancient traditional festivals, held to honor King An Duong Vuong and the historical Co Loa Citadel. This festival, recognized as a national intangible cultural heritage, celebrates the values of unity, patriotism, and cultural preservation.
Visitors to Co Loa Festival can enjoy unique art performances like water puppetry and folk singing on Ngoc Well. You can also participate in traditional games such as crossbow shooting, human chess, wrestling, and dragon boat rowing. These activities offer an immersive experience into Vietnam’s vibrant cultural traditions.
Time: The 6th day of the Lunar New Year (usually in early February)
Location: Soc Temple, Phu Linh Commune, Soc Son District, Hanoi
The Giong Festival is celebrated annually at Soc Temple to honor Saint Giong, a legendary hero who defended the country against foreign invaders. Recognized by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage of humanity, this festival draws thousands of visitors every year.
The festival begins with a solemn procession featuring offerings like steamed sticky rice, rice cakes, boiled roosters, and other traditional items. These offerings are meticulously prepared in gratitude to Saint Giong and to wish for peace and prosperity in the new year.
Besides the main rituals, visitors can engage in folk games such as stilt walking, balancing on wooden bridges, breaking earthen pots, and cooking contests. During the festival, the Soc Temple site also hosts a variety of art performances, adding to the lively and festive atmosphere.
February is not only the season of blooming spring flowers but also a time to immerse yourself in Hanoi’s vibrant cultural and historical heritage. Each festival in Hanoi brings its own unique charm and meaning, creating a colorful cultural mosaic. Plan your trip now to experience an unforgettable journey in the heart of Vietnam!
