Hue, one of the most attractive destinations during the Lunar New Year holiday, has won the hearts of both domestic and international travelers. Known as a charming “coastal city,” Hue not only captivates visitors with its stunning natural scenery but also enchants them with its unique festive atmosphere. Save this list of top places to visit in Hue during Tet for the best spring experiences.
1. Thuong Tieu Ceremony (New Year Pole Raising Ceremony)
The Thuong Tieu Ceremony, also known as the New Year Pole Raising Ceremony, is a solemn ritual held at The Mieu Temple and Long An Palace, originating from the Nguyen Dynasty. Rich in Vietnamese cultural traditions, the ceremony features processions of participants dressed in traditional red and yellow uniforms carrying 15-meter bamboo poles. The rituals are accompanied by lively imperial court music, bringing a fresh vibrancy to the otherwise quiet, ancient setting.
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Time: 23rd day of the 12th lunar month (annually)
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Location: From Thai Hoa Palace to The To Mieu, Hue Imperial City
2. Spring Swing Festival (Lễ hội Đu Tiên)
This unique and thrilling festival is beloved by many in Hue. Participants fasten themselves securely and swing high on tall handcrafted swings created by skilled local artisans. Whoever reaches the highest point becomes the winner. The festival brings joy and excitement to people of all ages.
The Điền Hòa Swing Festival not only preserves the traditional cultural beauty of the village and prays for favorable weather and bountiful harvests, but also serves as an opportunity for young men to showcase strength, endurance, and bring good fortune in the new year.
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Time: 2nd day of the 1st lunar month (annually)
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Location: Dien Hoa Commune, Phong Dien District (Thua Thien Hue)
3. Spring Boat Racing Festival
One of the most anticipated events during Tet in Hue, the spring boat race draws large crowds of visitors. Held on the 7th and 8th days of the new year, this traditional festival dates back centuries and was originally organized by local fishermen along the Vuc River to pray for a prosperous fishing season.
As you join the festival, you’ll witness thrilling races, splashing waters, and endless cheering that fill the entire riverbank with excitement.
If you visit Hue on the 6th day of Tet, don’t worry—you can still enjoy a similar boat racing festival at the famous Lang Co Bay, one of the world’s most beautiful bays.
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Time: 6th, 7th, and 8th days of the 1st lunar month (annually)
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Location: Vuc River (Quang Dien) & Lang Co Bay (Phu Loc)
4. Cau Ngu Festival (Fishermen’s Praying Festival)
This is one of Hue’s most unique spring festivals, where visitors can witness sacred rituals and cultural reenactments of traditional fishing village life. Steeped in spiritual symbolism, the festival prays for favorable weather and peaceful, prosperous lives. Locals dress in traditional fishermen’s clothing and recreate daily activities and lively waterside scenes, offering an unforgettable cultural experience.
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Time: 10th–12th days of the 1st lunar month (held every three years)
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Location: Thai Duong Ha Village, Thuan An (Phu Vang)
5. Thu Le Wrestling Festival
With a strong martial spirit, this wrestling festival showcases traditional Vietnamese sportsmanship during the spring season. More than 100 young wrestlers from villages across Quang Dien District gather to compete, keeping alive the cultural beauty of traditional wrestling. Expect intense energy and roaring cheers as impressive moves are executed.
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Time: 6th day of the 1st lunar month (annually)
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Location: Thu Le Communal House Yard, Quang Dien (Thua Thien Hue)
6. Sinh Village Wrestling Festival
With over 200 years of history, this festival warmly welcomes anyone to participate—locals and visitors alike, even spectators who want to try wrestling on the spot. Despite the lively and festive atmosphere, strict rules still apply: each wrestler must defeat two consecutive opponents to win. This creates an energetic yet competitive ambiance, making it one of Hue’s most exciting spring festivals.
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Time: 10th day of the 1st lunar month (annually)
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Location: Lai An Village, Phu Mau (Phu Vang)
7. Bai Choi Festival
Nothing is more delightful during spring than joining a friendly, humorous round of Bai Choi—a traditional musical card game. With the witty, rhythmic chants of the “game master,” Bai Choi attracts both locals and tourists and brings joyful energy to the New Year.
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Time: 1st to 10th days of the 1st lunar month (annually)
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Location: Thanh Toan Tile-Roofed Bridge, Thanh Thuy Chanh (Thuy Thanh, Huong Thuy)
Hue in spring is not only beautiful for its poetic landscapes but also deeply captivating thanks to its rich cultural heritage and vibrant traditional festivals. Exploring Hue’s spring festivals will give you unforgettable memories and truly meaningful cultural experiences. Don’t miss the chance to immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere and cultural charm of this imperial city.
With these travel insights from Luvitrans, we hope your journey to Hue in spring will be filled with unforgettable memories. For sleeper train tickets or tour consultations, visit:
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