Top 10 Festivals & Events You Should Not Miss When Coming to Danang, Vietnam

Introduction

Are you planning a trip to Danang, Vietnam? Famous as Asia’s Leading Festival and Event Destination, Danang offers a colourful calendar of festivals and events all year round. From mesmerizing fireworks to vibrant cultural festivals, the city is alive with celebrations that attract thousands of visitors. If you want to experience the heart and soul of Vietnam, planning around these events will allow you to immerse yourself in Danang’s unique culture and vibrant atmosphere. This guide covers the Top 10 Festivals & Events You Should Not Miss When Coming to Danang, Vietnam. Join us in exploring these memorable upcoming events & festivals in Danang and be a part of the city’s rich cultural tapestry.

1. Da Nang International Fireworks Festival 2024

– Date: June – July 2024 (Exact dates TBA)

– Location: Han River

A Mesmerizing Spectacle of Lights and Music

The Da Nang International Fireworks Festival 2024 is undoubtedly one of the most anticipated events in the city, drawing in visitors from across the globe. Held along the picturesque Han River, this festival in Danang showcases breathtaking pyrotechnic displays by teams from different countries. Each team combines music and fireworks in an extraordinary performance that lights up the Danang skyline. Complementing the fireworks, the festival also offers various festive activities, including cultural shows and local food stalls along the riverbanks. If you’re looking for festivals not to be missed when coming to Da Nang, DIFF 2024 should be at the top of your list.

2. Quan The Am (Avalokitesvara) Festival:

– Date: 19th day of the second lunar month (Usually April)
– Location: Marble Mountains, Ngu Hanh Son District

A Spiritual and Cultural Celebration

The Quan The Am Festival, or Avalokitesvara Festival, is a revered religious event celebrating compassion and peace. Held at the Marble Mountains, one of Danang’s most iconic landmarks, this festival honours Quan The Am (Avalokitesvara), the Buddhist Goddess of Mercy. The festival includes traditional Buddhist rituals, processions, and folk performances that attract both local devotees and international visitors. It’s a time for reflection and spiritual connection, offering a serene and culturally enriching experience. For travellers or visitors interested in Vietnamese culture, this Danang Festival 2024 is a must-attend event.

3. Da Nang Boat Racing Festival

– Date: Vietnam’s National Day (September 2)
– Location: Han River

Celebrating Team Spirit and Strength

A thrilling event that symbolizes strength, teamwork, and tradition, the Da Nang Boat Racing Festival is held on Vietnam’s National Day. Teams from various parts of the city compete in high-speed races along the Han River. With boats adorned in vibrant colors, the festival creates a high-energy environment, as spectators cheer on their favorite teams. Boat racing has been part of Vietnamese culture for centuries, and witnessing this event is a great way to experience the lively community spirit of Danang.

4. Cau Ngu Festival (Fish Worshiping Festival)

– Date: Lunar January (Exact date varies)
– Location: Coastal fishing villages around Danang, including Man Thai and Tho Quang

Honouring the Sea and Fishing Traditions

The Cau Ngu Festival, also known as the Whale Worshiping Festival, is a traditional ceremony honouring the Whale God, who is believed to protect fishermen at sea. Taking place in fishing villages like Man Thai and Tho Quang, this festival includes a procession, offerings, and performances showcasing Vietnamese coastal culture. During the festive activities, locals express their gratitude for safe voyages and abundant catches, making it a wonderful opportunity for visitors to learn about Vietnam’s deep connection with the sea.

5. Local Village Festivals: An Hai, Hoa My, and Tuy Loan Villages

– Date: February – March
– Location: Various villages around Danang

A Peek into Traditional Vietnamese Village Life

Village festivals are integral to Danang’s cultural heritage, with each village celebrating its unique customs. The An Hai Village Festival, Hoa My Village Festival, and Tuy Loan Village Festival are particularly popular, drawing in locals and visitors alike. These festivals include traditional games, martial arts performances, folk dances, and rituals honouring local deities. Attending one of these local festivals offers visitors a glimpse into the rural culture and history of Danang, making it an experience that’s both authentic and enlightening.

6. Hot Air Balloon Festival

– Date: April (Dates vary)
– Location: My Khe Beach

A Unique Bird’s Eye View of Danang

The Hot Air Balloon Festival is a relatively new but popular event that takes place during the city’s peak tourism season. Vibrant hot air balloons fill the sky above My Khe Beach, offering breathtaking views of Danang’s coastline and the surrounding mountains. Visitors can enjoy balloon rides, capture stunning aerial photographs, and revel in the festival atmosphere on the beach. This festival is perfect for adventure seekers and photographers looking to experience the city from a different perspective.

7. Da Nang International Marathon

– Date: August (Exact date varies)
– Location: Starts at Bien Dong Park and follows coastal routes

A Scenic Marathon for Runners Worldwide

The Da Nang International Marathon is one of Asia’s most scenic races, attracting runners from around the world. With a course that winds along the coastal roads and over iconic bridges, the marathon offers participants breathtaking views at every mile. The event includes a full marathon, half marathon, and five kilometers categories, making it accessible for both serious runners and casual participants. Running enthusiasts will find this a fantastic way to combine fitness and sightseeing in one of Vietnam’s most beautiful cities.

8. Tet Holiday Celebrations

– Date: Lunar New Year (Usually late January or February)
– Location: Throughout Danang

Welcoming the Lunar New Year with Festivities

The Tet Holiday is the Vietnamese Lunar New Year and the most significant celebration in the country. Danang transforms during Tet, with streets decorated in colourful lights, flowers, and banners. The city hosts various cultural activities, dragon dances, fireworks, and traditional markets that reflect the joy and energy of the New Year. This is one of the best times to experience Vietnamese culture, as families come together to celebrate, exchange gifts, and enjoy traditional foods. For visitors, Tet in Danang is a lively and heartwarming experience that captures the essence of Vietnam’s festive spirit.

9. Da Nang New Year Countdown

– Date: December 31
– Location: Along the Han River, central Danang or 29/3 Square on 2/9 Street of Danang city

Ringing in the New Year with Style

The Da Nang New Year Countdown celebration is a thrilling way to welcome the New Year. Held along the Han River, the event includes live music performances, DJs, food stalls, and a spectacular fireworks show at midnight. The festive atmosphere and riverside setting create a memorable experience for visitors and locals alike. The New Year Countdown has become an annual highlight, attracting large crowds who come to celebrate the beginning of a new year in a lively and energetic environment.

10. Festive Season Programs: Christmas and New Year programs at Resorts in Danang

– Date: From December to January of the next year
– Location: Various resorts, including Furama Resort Danang

Holiday Celebrations in a Tropical Paradise

Danang’s resorts, including Furama Resort Danang, host special programs during the festive season, blending Vietnamese and Western holiday traditions. Visitors can enjoy Christmas feasts, New Year’s Eve galas, and themed events tailored for families and couples. These programs feature gourmet dining, live entertainment, and activities for children, making it an ideal option for those looking to celebrate the holidays in a unique and luxurious setting. The tropical charm of Danang adds an exotic twist to traditional holiday celebrations, making this festive season experience truly memorable.

Throughout the Christmas season, Furama Resort Da Nang will present a series of exciting holiday festive season programs. Kicking off with the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, this event will officially launch the Christmas atmosphere at the resort. After the ceremony, guests will enjoy a cozy buffet filled with unique delicacies.

On December 24, the Christmas Eve Celebration will be held in the lobby and courtyard area, followed by a luxurious International Buffet at the Furama International Convention Palace offering a unique and exquisite culinary experience. On the next day, December 25, guests can indulge in the delightful Seafood and Steak Buffet at Furama, an ideal choice for a festive Christmas meal with family.

The festive series will culminate on December 31 with the vibrant “Cabaret New Year’s Eve Gala”, directed by singer Quang Hào, head of Trưng Vương Theater in Da Nang. Set in the luxurious Furama International Convention Palace, this captivating event promises enchanting dance, music, and performances by talented artists. From timeless cabaret classics to lively modern hits, the evening offers a joyful New Year’s atmosphere, blending music, dance, and humour for an unforgettable artistic experience to welcome 2025.

See details about the Christmas & New Year 2025 programs at Furama Resort Da Nang HERE.

Explore exclusive holiday offers for Christmas & New Year season at Furama Resort Da Nang HERE.