Waiting for Hue Royal Mid-Autumn Festival

The Imperial Treasury Residence – Hue Imperial City shimmering on Mid-Autumn night. Photo: Hue Monuments Conservation Centre

Taking place from October 4^th to 7^th (August 13^th to 16^th of the lunar calendar), the festival will be organized at the Imperial Treasury Residence (Hue Imperial City) and along central streets. It will blend traditional and modern spaces to recreate the festive atmosphere of Mid-Autumn celebrations of the past.

The highlight of the festival will be the Unicorn - Lion - Dragon dance performance and Mid-Autumn lantern parade on the afternoon of October 4^th, from 4:30 to 7:00 p.m. Unicorn dance troupes, artists from Hue Royal Traditional Art Theater, and students from secondary schools in Phu Xuan Ward will join the procession along major streets, starting from Nghinh Luong Dinh Pavilion and moving through Tran Hung Dao Street - Gia Hoi Bridge - Trinh Cong Son Park. Several stops such as Truong Tien Bridge, Phuong Nam Bookstore, and Tran Hung Dao - Huynh Thuc Khang - Phan Dang Luu intersection will also have performances for the public.

On the evenings of October 6^th and 7^th, from 7:30 to 10:00 p.m., the lantern-lit space at the Imperial Household Residence will glow brilliantly. Visitors will have the chance to admire Bao La bamboo and rattan lanterns, collapsible lanterns from CAN Studio, and traditional lanterns crafted by artisans from Gifu Prefecture (Japan). The event will also feature imperial court games such as dau ho, bai vu, and xam huong, along with calligraphy experiences, creating a cultural playground that is both educational and reminiscent of the beauty of traditional Mid-Autumn festivities.

A special program, “Royal Full Moon Night”, will be held from 7:30 to 10:00 p.m. on October 6^th and 7^th at the stage behind the Imperial Treasury Residence, promising a captivating cultural and artistic feast.

According to the organizers, all activities are free of charge. Cars will enter through Hoa Binh Gate, while pedestrians and motorcyclists will use Hien Nhon Gate. Guests will be welcomed between 7:00 and 8:00 p.m.

“Hue Imperial Mid-Autumn Festival 2025” is not only a playground for children but also an opportunity for visitors from near and far to gain a deeper appreciation of the traditional cultural beauty of the former imperial capital.