Hue Festival 2025 Dates and Venue
Dates: Tuesday, March 25, to Monday, April 7, 2025Events such as the Nam Giao Offering Ritual, Royal Night Performances, and Kites Display will take place in historical locations, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in Hue’s unique traditions.
Location: Various venues across Hue City, including the Hue Imperial Citadel, Truong Tien Bridge, Ngu Binh Mountain, and Perfume River.
What is the Hue Festival?
The Hue Festival is a grand celebration of Vietnam’s cultural legacy, inspired by traditional festivals and royal ceremonies of the Nguyen Dynasty. It has evolved into a large-scale cultural event that brings together artists, performers, and visitors from across Vietnam and the world.The city of Hue, nestled between the Ngu Binh Mountain and the Huong River, serves as a stunning backdrop for this cultural fiesta. Known for its rich historical significance, Hue offers the perfect setting to witness Vietnam’s traditions, rituals, and artistic performances.
The festival combines traditional and contemporary art forms, including royal court music, folk dances, theater performances, and modern art installations. It’s a rare opportunity to witness Vietnam’s rich heritage while exploring Hue’s breathtaking historical landmarks, including the iconic Hue Imperial Citadel and its surrounding attractions.
Key Highlights of Hue Festival 2025
1. Opening Ceremony
The festival begins with a grand opening ceremony at the Hue Imperial Citadel, featuring traditional Vietnamese music, dance, and a dazzling display of lights and fireworks. This event sets the tone for the two-week-long celebration.2. Ao Dai Fashion Show
The Ao Dai Fashion Show is a visual spectacle celebrating Vietnam’s traditional dress, the Ao Dai. Local and international designers showcase stunning interpretations of this iconic garment against the backdrop of Hue’s historic landmarks.3. Royal Court Music and Performances
As a UNESCO-recognized Intangible Cultural Heritage, Nha Nhac (Vietnamese royal court music) plays a central role in the festival. These performances recreate the grandeur of the Nguyen Dynasty, offering a glimpse into the royal traditions of Vietnam.4. Oriental Night
One of the major events of the Hue Festival, Oriental Night, features a stunning fashion show that showcases traditional costumes from across Asia. Models from countries like Mongolia, Japan, Thailand, and India display the beauty of their traditional attire, celebrating Asia's cultural diversity.5. Street Parades and Folk Performances
Vibrant street parades featuring dragon dances, lion dances, and folk performances take place throughout the city. These events bring the streets of Hue to life with color, music, and energy.6. International Art Shows
Artists and performers from 40 countries participate in the festival, offering a multicultural dimension. Expect mesmerizing contemporary dance, acrobatics, and art exhibitions. Past editions have included Cuban salsa, Polish folk music, and Aboriginal Australian performances.7. Boat Racing on the Perfume River
The traditional dragon boat races on the Perfume River are a highlight of the festival. Teams from across Vietnam compete in this exciting event, showcasing skill, teamwork, and the vibrant river culture of Hue.8. Food Festivals
Hue’s renowned cuisine takes center stage during the food festivals held as part of the Hue Festival. Visitors can savor local delicacies like bun bo Hue, banh beo, and che, alongside regional specialties from across Vietnam. Don’t miss the chance to try the royal cuisines offered during the Imperial Night.9. Nam Giao Offering Ritual
This sacred ceremony honors the gods, ancestors, and spirits through traditional prayers and offerings. Held at the Nam Giao Esplanade, it’s one of the most spiritually significant events of the festival.10. Closing Ceremony
The festival concludes with a grand closing ceremony, featuring a fireworks display, musical performances, and a farewell parade, leaving attendees with unforgettable memories of this cultural extravaganza.History of the Biennial Festival
The Hue Festival was officially established in 2000, evolving from the Vietnam-France Gathering in 1992. Since its inception, it has grown into one of Vietnam’s largest cultural events, held every two years. Each edition of the festival celebrates Vietnam’s cultural values while fostering international cultural exchange.
As the first national and international festival in Vietnam, it has welcomed performances by artists from over 30 countries, showcasing diverse art forms, including court music, folk dances, contemporary theater, and costume exhibitions.
A Few Tips to Enjoy the Hue Festival at its Best!
When in Rome, do as the Romans do! And this phrase proves true for all travelers who are traveling to a different and new country to experience the best of their local cultures. So, if you happen to be in Vietnam during the Hue Festival, you need to chalk out a proper plan for all six days of the festival to go back home with the best of memories that will last for a lifetime! Here are a few tips that might help!
- Try Out the Best Foods Possible: Visiting a cultural festival and not relishing its local cuisine is truly not done. Especially for the Hue Festival, you must try different dishes, from street foods to Royal cuisines. You can visit the food stalls with all kinds of food from around the globe. You can relish the Royal cuisine during the Imperial Night event in the Citadel.
- Visit the Various Exhibitions: A series of different exhibitions featuring varied aspects of the Hue culture is worth visiting during this festival. This can be your once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to admire masterpieces from around the world. There are photo exhibitions as well as illustration art to see and appreciate.
- Explore Hue’s Landmarks
The festival provides an excellent opportunity to explore Hue’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, such as the Hue Imperial Citadel, Tu Duc Tomb, and the stunning Perfume River. - Spend a Fun Time at the Music Events: During the Hue Festival, music bands worldwide are invited to perform, and these events are really fun to be a part of. Music concerts are being held, and some performances are just too hard to give a miss! You can enjoy different kinds of music, starting from folk to traditional and classic, and have a great time with friends or family!
- Be a Part of the Traditional Customs: One of the best ways to feel the true essence of the Hue Festival is to be a part of the local customs and traditions. Hue culture is unique and varied so that it can be truly surprising for you as a foreigner. Nam Giao Offering Ritual, Kites Display, and the Traditional Boat Race Festival are some of the best options to participate in.
How to Reach Hue
- By Air: The nearest airport is Phu Bai International Airport, located about 15 km from Hue City. Direct flights connect Hue to major Vietnamese cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang.
- By Train: Hue is well-connected by train to cities across Vietnam. The Reunification Express offers a scenic and comfortable journey.
- By Road: Buses and private taxis are available from nearby cities like Da Nang (2-3 hours) and Hoi An (3-4 hours).