Discover the Magic of Mid-Autumn Festival in Vietnam (Tet Trung Thu)

Introduction: A Night of Moonlight and Joy

The Mid-Autumn Festival in Vietnam, known as Tet Trung Thu, is one of the most loved celebrations of the year. Falling on the 15th day of the 8th lunar month, it’s a magical night when families gather to watch the full moon, enjoy delicious mooncakes, and celebrate the innocence of childhood.

In Vietnam, Tet Trung Thu is often called the Children’s Festival, filled with laughter, lanterns, and the rhythmic beats of lion dances.

The Meaning Behind Tet Trung Thu

Historically, the Mid-Autumn Festival marked the end of the harvest season, when farmers gave thanks for a good crop and families reunited after months of hard work.

Over time, it evolved into a festival dedicated to children’s happiness — symbolizing family bonds, love, and prosperity. The full moon represents reunion and harmony, and under its bright light, families share stories and treats together.

Mooncakes — The Heart of Mid-Autumn Festival

No Mid-Autumn celebration in Vietnam is complete without banh trung thu (mooncakes). These beautiful round pastries come in two main types:

• Banh nuong (baked mooncakes): made with wheat flour, filled with lotus seed paste, salted egg yolk, or mixed nuts (thap cam).

• Banh deo (sticky mooncakes): made from glutinous rice flour, soft and fragrant, often with mung bean or durian filling.

In recent years, creative bakeries have introduced modern flavors like chocolate, matcha, or green tea. Families and companies exchange mooncakes as gifts of goodwill and appreciation.

Lanterns, Lion Dances, and Festive Fun

Tet Trung Thu is a truly vibrant celebration, especially for children. Weeks before the festival, markets fill with colorful lanterns, drums, and toys.

Children parade through the streets with star-shaped lanterns (den ong sao), fish-shaped lanterns (den ca chep), or animal designs, singing cheerful Mid-Autumn songs.

The highlight of the night is the mua lan (lion dance) — a joyful performance believed to bring luck and happiness. Neighborhoods, schools, and companies organize shows, games, and food stalls to mark the occasion.

The Legends of Chi Hang and Chu Cuoi

Vietnamese folklore adds a touch of magic to the festival.

• Chi Hang (The Moon Lady) is said to live on the moon, watching over children from above.

• Chu Cuoi (The Man on the Moon) once cared for a magical banyan tree. One day, he accidentally floated to the moon with it — and has lived there ever since, keeping Chi Hang company.

These tales are retold every Mid-Autumn night, reminding everyone — especially children — to stay kind, honest, and hopeful.

Where to Experience Tet Trung Thu in Vietnam

If you’re in Vietnam during the festival, here are some must-visit spots:

• Hanoi: Hang Ma Street glows with lanterns and festive stalls.

• Hoi An: The ancient town hosts beautiful lantern nights along the Thu Bon River.

• Ho Chi Minh City: Luong Nhu Hoc Street in District 5 bursts with colors, music, and lion dances.

Conclusion: A Festival of Love and Reunion

The Mid-Autumn Festival in Vietnam is more than just mooncakes and lanterns — it’s a moment for family reunion, gratitude, and joy. Whether you’re watching the moon rise with loved ones or joining a lantern parade, Tet Trung Thu offers a beautiful glimpse into Vietnamese culture and tradition.

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