Local Festivals
Angsana Quan Lan
Get into the festive spirit with local festivals celebrating the culinary and cultural heritage of Quang Ninh
Quang Ninh Province is home to culinary and cultural festivals year-round. Some highlights include Yen Tu Festival when Buddhists make a pilgrimage to Yen Tu mountain and visit pagodas and shrines dotting the path, Ha Long Carnival showcasing the natural wonder of the world-famous Ha Long Bay, Quan Lan Festival with its spectacular boat race to commemorate Vietnam's victory against invaders, and Quang Ninh Culinary Festival featuring local specialities.
Quan Lan Boat Racing Festival
Held annually in the sixth month of the Lunar calendar, Quan Lan's boat racing festival commemorates the victory of the war against Mongol invaders in 1288. The celebrations kick off in Quan Lan Temple, where participants and revelers pray for good harvest and favourable weather. The strongest villages group into two teams dressed as ancient soldiers and prepare their boats decorated like imposing dragons gliding on the ocean.
Yen Tu Festival
For three months from the first day of the lunar calendar to the last day of the third month, Buddhists from all over Vietnam make a pilgrimage to the sacred Yen Tu Mountain. The solemn procession traverses the complex of 11 pagodas, including the magnificent Dong Pagoda and numerous shrines. In the 13th century, Vietnam’s king Tran Nhan Tong, who was also a monk, built the complex during his rule.
Ha Long Carnival
Every month of May, the city of Ha Long hosts a grand carnival to celebrate the recognition of Ha Long Bay as a Unesco World Heritage Site, as well as the region's natural wonders with spectacular street and stage performances and a round of fireworks.
On its 16th year, Ha Long Carnival brings in local singers, dance troupes, beauty queens, professional artists, folk artisans and nearly 2,000 performers to the event.
Bach Dang Festival
On the last week of April, Vietnamese commemorate Tran Hung Dao, a military strategist who led the country to victory against the Mongols at the Bach Dang River in 1288. During the four-day event, visitors can enjoy local delicacies such as Quang Yen spring rolls, Lien Vi fish salad, oyster salad, fried vermicelli, and Hoang Tan shrimp, as well as view a calligraphy exhibition, a trade fair, folk music performances and games.
