December is one of Vietnam’s most event-packed months. Vietnam events December highlight major festivals across the country.
The month features the Hoi An International Lantern Festival and the Da Lat Flower Festival. It also includes the Da Nang Christmas Market and the Closing Ceremony of Visit Vietnam Year – Gia Lai 2026.
Weather in December varies by region. Northern Vietnam is cool and dry, making it pleasant for exploring Hanoi. Central Vietnam can remain wet and changeable, especially in coastal areas. Southern Vietnam is generally warmer, with a mix of dry periods and occasional rain. If you’re still deciding when to go, check our best time to visit guide.
Here’s what’s happening across Vietnam events December in 2026, broken down by city and region.
Hoi An Events
Hoi An International Lantern Festival 2026
Date: December 3–6, 2026
Location: Hoi An Ancient Town
Type: Cultural / Festival
For the first time, Hoi An is hosting an international lantern festival. Themed “Hoi An – Colors of Heritage,” the event features artistic lantern displays in public spaces, each telling stories about the ancient town’s history and culture.
The four-day festival includes an opening ceremony with performances on land and water, lantern-making workshops with local artisans, a culinary space, and a lantern parade at night. The exhibition space will remain open until the Lantern Festival in 2027, extending the festive atmosphere.
Why go: This is a landmark event for Hoi An, combining the town’s famous lantern-lit charm with international participation. It’s a photographer’s dream and a deeply cultural experience. While in Hoi An, don’t miss our guides to Hoi An Ancient Town, Hoi An after dark, and the basket boat ride in the coconut forest.
Da Lat Events
Da Lat Flower Festival 2026
Date: December 1–31, 2026
Opening ceremony: December 19, 2026
Location: Lam Vien Square, Xuan Huong Lake area, and various locations in Da Lat
Type: Cultural / Flower / Music
The 11th Da Lat Flower Festival is a major cultural-tourism event attracting millions of visitors, expanding across Da Lat and neighboring districts to showcase the diversity of Lam Dong’s flower industry.
The festival features flower displays around Xuan Huong Lake, international flower and bonsai exhibitions, and cultural performances celebrating Da Lat’s status as a UNESCO Creative City of Music.
Why go: This is one of Vietnam’s most beautiful seasonal events, perfect for nature lovers and photographers. For accommodation, see our guides to best hotels in Da Lat, luxury hotels, and nature view hotels.
Da Nang Events
Da Nang Christmas Market 2026
Date: December 4–6, 2026
Location: Ariyana Convention Centre, Da Nang
Type: Christmas / Food / Shopping / Entertainment
The Da Nang Christmas Market is a festive event featuring food stalls, gift shopping, crafts, and entertainment in a Christmas atmosphere.
Why go: A great way to experience holiday spirit in Vietnam’s dynamic coastal city. For accommodation, see our guides to best hotels in Da Nang, beachfront hotels, and Da Nang for First-Timers.
Da Nang New Year Festival 2027
Date: December 2026 – January 2027
Location: Da Nang
Type: New Year / Cultural / Entertainment
Da Nang will host a New Year Festival to welcome 2027. The city-wide celebration will include cultural, artistic, entertainment and experiential activities. Specific program details will be announced closer to the event.
Why go: This is a vibrant way to welcome the New Year in one of Vietnam’s most dynamic coastal cities. Check the official Da Nang tourism website for updates on the 2027 program.
Central Highlands Events
Closing Ceremony of Visit Vietnam Year – Gia Lai 2026
Date: December 2026
Location: Gia Lai Province, Central Highlands
Type: Tourism / Cultural
The Closing Ceremony ends a year of dynamic activities that celebrate Gia Lai’s natural and cultural heritage. It reinforces Gia Lai’s position on Vietnam’s tourism map and looks ahead to sustainable development.
Why go: This is a significant national tourism event marking the end of Visit Vietnam Year 2026. For a comprehensive overview of the region, browse our North Vietnam Travel Guide.
Other Vietnam Events in December
Additionally, December features Christmas celebrations in major cities, particularly in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.
Churches and public spaces are decorated with festive lights.
For a comprehensive overview of the country’s highlights, browse our North Vietnam Travel Guide and South Vietnam Travel Guide.
Planning a Trip to Vietnam in December?
December weather varies significantly by region. Northern Vietnam is cool and dry, with temperatures dropping in the evenings — ideal for exploring Hanoi and the highlands. Central Vietnam can remain wet and changeable, so pack accordingly. The south is generally warmer, with a mix of dry periods and occasional rain.
With major festivals in Hoi An, Da Lat, and Da Nang, booking accommodation and transport well in advance is essential. You can compare options in our best hotels in Da Nang, Da Lat, and Hanoi guides. For detailed monthly breakdowns, see our Vietnam events December guide and weather by month.
Don’t forget essentials like our e-visa guide and best SIM card/eSIM recommendations to stay connected.
Coming Up Next
Planning ahead? See what’s happening in Vietnam in January 2027 →
Specifically, November 2026, December 2026, and January 2027 are shown.