Hội An Lantern Festival is run on the 14th day of each lunar moon when the moon is at its fullest and brightest. Much of the activities are centered at the An Hoi Bridge and along the banks of the Hoai River. The release of lanterns on the rivers is said to bring good fortune and love, as well as health and happiness.

The Lantern Festival may originate as far back as the Han dynasty (202 BC – 220 AD) when Buddhist monks would light lanterns on the 15th day of the lunar year in honor of the Buddha.

Throughout the ages, lanterns have been used not only as sources of light or simple paper decoration, but they symbolize vitality, social status, and good luck. Red is the most common lantern color. The Hoi An Lantern Festival is also an important time to worship deceased relatives, which is an incredibly important ritual for most Vietnamese. Families will present offerings such as food, drinks, flowers, and fake money in the belief that it will result in good luck and future prosperity for their family.