The Magic of the Mid-Autumn Festival: Lion Dance and Lanterns Illuminate Da Nang

The Mid-Autumn Festival, affectionately known as the ‘Children’s Festival,’ is a beloved celebration in Vietnam, steeped in rich traditions and enchanting legends.

One of the most captivating stories revolves around a character named Cuoi, who, according to folklore, climbed a magical banyan tree and found himself floating to the moon. To guide Cuoi back to Earth, children take to the streets on the night of the festival, parading with colorful lanterns.

Crowds of all ages gather at the Children’s Cultural Palace, parks, and various venues in Da Nang, Vietnam, to witness the captivating lion dances. Photo: Thanh Nguyen / Tuoi Tre

This festival occurs annually on the 15th day of the eighth lunar month, which, this year, falls on Tuesday, September 17. However, the celebrations start weeks in advance, with vibrant decorations, delicious mooncakes, and the lively lion dances taking center stage.

Lion dancing, initially a cultural tradition, has evolved into a professional art form. Skilled troupes perform intricate routines during the Mid-Autumn Festival and Tet, the traditional Lunar New Year holiday.

Lion dancers in Da Nang, Vietnam, captivate audiences with their vibrant costumes and energetic performances. Photo: Thanh Nguyen / Tuoi Tre

In the days leading up to the main event, enthusiastic crowds gather at the Da Nang Children’s Cultural Palace, local parks, and other venues to watch these mesmerizing lion dance performances.

This year, the labor unions in Da Nang canceled the ‘Moonlight Festival’ to redirect funds to support communities in northern Vietnam affected by typhoon Yagi and the subsequent flooding. Despite this, families have kept the festive spirit alive by taking their children to watch the lion dances each evening.

Tran Thi Thu Huong, a local resident of Lien Chieu District, shared that her family has been enjoying the lion dance performances to bring joy to their children during the Mid-Autumn Festival. “Not just kids, even adults like us love watching the performances,” she said, particularly enjoying the moments when “the lions jump on poles and light up fireworks.”

Audiences of all ages are enthralled by the energetic lion dances and other performances in Da Nang, Vietnam. Photo: Thanh Nguyen / Tuoi Tre

The festival atmosphere extends beyond the performance venues, with shops and cafés adorned with star-shaped lanterns and traditional masks. Street vendors selling handheld lanterns are a common sight, offering a range of colorful designs that appeal to all ages, making them a must-have festival accessory.

Festive gatherings at the Children’s Cultural Palace in Da Nang, Vietnam, to celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival. Photo: Thanh Nguyen / Tuoi Tre

Shops across Da Nang, Vietnam, decked out in colorful lanterns for the Mid-Autumn Festival. Photo: Thanh Nguyen / Tuoi Tre

Brightly colored lanterns, a favorite among children and adults alike, illuminate the Mid-Autumn Festival celebrations in Da Nang, Vietnam. Photo: Thanh Nguyen / Tuoi Tre

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