Celebrating the Ong Dia Festival: A Cultural Gem in Saigon

A Vibrant Southern Tradition
The Ong Dia Festival, held annually in Go Vap Ward at the Ong Dia Temple, 125 Le Loi Street, is a cherished celebration of Southern Vietnamese folk beliefs, honoring Phuc Duc Chinh Than (Earth God) and other deities. On the 2nd day of the second lunar month, this community-driven event brings locals together for rituals like “drilling the hole” and “Dia Nang” performances, blending spirituality with social commentary through dance and song. In Ho Chi Minh City’s dynamic 6,772 km² megacity, the festival offers a glimpse into Saigon’s cultural roots, distinct from its urban bustle. Legend Travel Group’s eco-friendly tours, using bicycles and Metro Line 1, provide a sustainable way to immerse in this authentic tradition, supporting local artisans. Celebrate Saigon’s heritage—book our tours via links throughout this guide or contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or sales@legendtravelgroup.com! TripAdvisor Ho Chi Minh City

Administrative Update
Vietnam recently merged Binh Duong and Ba Ria-Vung Tau into Ho Chi Minh City, creating a 6,772 km² megacity with 13.7 million residents across 168 wards, including Go Vap District now Go Vap Ward. This reorganization enhances festival accessibility with Metro Line 1, electric buses, and cycling paths, connecting Go Vap Ward’s cultural events to Ward 1’s urban core and coastal Vung Tau Ward, enriching Saigon’s cultural landscape. The political center remains at 86 Le Thanh Ton, Ward 1.

Legend Travel Group, a premier Southeast Asia tour operator, offers immersive, eco-conscious tours to the Ong Dia Festival and Saigon’s cultural landmarks. Our tours use bicycles and low-emission vehicles, guided by local experts sharing Southern Vietnam’s folk traditions. Supporting communities in Go Vap Ward, Ward 1, and Thu Duc, we align with the city’s “Green Metropolis” vision. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support, we ensure a seamless experience. Book our eco-tours via links on this page and celebrate sustainably! TripAdvisor Reviews

Held at Ong Dia Temple, 125 Le Loi Street, Go Vap Ward, ~10 km from Ward 1, the Ong Dia Festival takes place on the 2nd day of the second lunar month (mid-March) in Ho Chi Minh City’s tropical monsoon climate: dry season (December–April, 25–35°C or 77–95°F) and rainy season (May–November, 23–32°C or 73.4–89.6°F), with peak rainfall in June–September (150–400 mm). This Southern Vietnamese festival honors the Earth God and folk deities through rituals like betel offerings and “Dia Nang” performances, where characters critique societal habits. A community event, it features gold dances and silver tray ceremonies by local artisans, drawing residents more than tourists. Free entry with donations ($0.50–$2 or 12,500–50,000 VND), it’s accessible via Metro Line 1, near landmarks like Notre-Dame Basilica.

• When: 2nd day of the second lunar month (typically mid-March, e.g., March 14–15 depending on the lunar calendar).

• Where: Ong Dia Temple, 125 Le Loi Street, Go Vap Ward, Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Ward 3, Go Vap District).

• Objects of Worship: Phuc Duc Chinh Than (Earth God) and Southern Vietnamese folk deities, symbolizing prosperity and protection.

• Access: Free entry; donations $0.50–$2 (12,500–50,000 VND). Open 6:00 AM–8:00 PM during the festival, with peak rituals from 8:00 AM–12:00 PM.

Tip: Confirm the lunar date annually; book our Saigon Cultural Tour ($50–$70) for guided access.

The Ong Dia Festival is a vibrant showcase of Southern Vietnamese folk culture, offering:

• “Drilling the Hole” Ritual: A symbolic ceremony to connect with the Earth God, involving offerings of incense and prayers for prosperity, performed by temple elders at 8:00 AM.

• Betel Offering Ceremony: Artisans present betel and areca nuts with lullabies to honor deities, a traditional gesture of respect, around 9:00 AM.

• “Dia Nang” Performance: Actors portray Mr. Dia (Earth God) and fairies, using satirical skits to critique social habits like greed or dishonesty, engaging crowds from 10:00 AM–12:00 PM.

• Gold Dances and Silver Trays: Local performers execute intricate dances with gold-painted props and silver trays, symbolizing wealth and gratitude, in the temple courtyard by noon.

• Closing Ritual: A solemn offering to deities at 2:00 PM, marking the festival’s end, with community prayers for harmony.

• Cultural Stalls: Browse modest stalls for traditional snacks like bánh tét ($1 or 25,000 VND) and handmade crafts ($1–$5 or 25,000–125,000 VND).

This community-focused festival, less touristy than Tet, offers an authentic glimpse into Saigon’s spiritual life, ideal for cultural enthusiasts.

The Ong Dia Temple in Go Vap Ward is accessible from Ho Chi Minh City’s transport hub:

• By Air: Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN), in Tan Binh Ward, serves 40 million passengers annually. Round-trip costs:

  • Hanoi: $80–$150 (2,000,000–3,750,000 VND).

  • Da Nang: $60–$120 (1,500,000–3,000,000 VND).

  • Bangkok/Singapore: $200–$500.

  • Taxis/Grab to Go Vap Ward (5 km): $5–$8 (120,000–200,000 VND).

• By Bus: From Hanoi (30–34 hours, $35–$60 or 875,000–1,500,000 VND), Da Nang (18–22 hours, $20–$40 or 500,000–1,000,000 VND), or Can Tho (3–4 hours, $5–$10 or 125,000–250,000 VND). Local bus #103 to Go Vap: $0.55–$0.80 (15,000–20,000 VND).

• By Train: Saigon Railway Station in Ward 7 connects to Hanoi (30–34 hours, $40–$80 or 1,000,000–2,000,000 VND). A high-speed rail is planned for 2030.

Getting to Ong Dia Temple:

• Metro Line 1: Quang Trung Station (2 km away), $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND), 5-minute Grab ($2 or 50,000 VND).

• Bus #103: Stops at Le Loi Street, 100m walk, $0.55–$0.80 (15,000–20,000 VND).

• Grab/Taxi: $3–$5 (75,000–125,000 VND) within Go Vap Ward; $5–$8 (120,000–200,000 VND) from Ward 1.

• Bicycle Rental: $1–$3/day (25,000–75,000 VND), ideal for Go Vap’s flat streets.

Tip: Use bicycles for eco-friendly travel; book our Saigon Cultural Tour ($50–$70) for guided transport.

The dry season (December–April) offers sunny weather (25–35°C or 77–95°F), ideal for enjoying outdoor rituals and performances during the mid-March festival. As a post-Tet event, it’s less crowded than Lunar New Year, providing a relaxed cultural experience. Morning visits (6:00 AM–10:00 AM) capture the opening rituals and avoid midday heat, while noon performances offer lively crowds. The rainy season (May–November) may bring showers (23–32°C or 73.4–89.6°F), but the temple’s covered areas ensure uninterrupted festivities.

Tip: Arrive by 8:00 AM for the “drilling the hole” ritual; check lunar calendars for exact dates. Book tours 3–5 weeks ahead for March.

Pack these essentials for a comfortable experience:

• Clothing: Lightweight outfits for dry season; waterproof jackets for potential showers. Modest attire (covered shoulders, long pants) for temple respect.

• Sun Protection: SPF 50+ sunscreen, sunglasses, wide-brimmed hat for outdoor rituals.

• Footwear: Comfortable shoes for walking; sandals for warm days; waterproof shoes if rainy.

• Travel Essentials: Reusable water bottle, compact umbrella, mosquito repellent.

• Tech Gear: Smartphone with Maps.me, Grab app, portable charger, camera for photos (respect temple rules).

• Documents: Passport copy, travel insurance, tour confirmations, VND (50,000–200,000 notes) for donations.

• Eco-Friendly Items: Reusable tote bag, straw to support sustainability.

Tip: Carry small VND notes for donations; bring a notebook to record cultural observations.

1. Notre-Dame Basilica, Ward 1

A 20-minute Grab ($5–$8 or 120,000–200,000 VND) to 1 Cong Xa Paris, this 1880 basilica showcases Romanesque-Gothic architecture.

• Cost: Free; donations $0.50–$2 (12,500–50,000 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM.

• Tip: Photograph the facade; included in our Saigon Cultural Tour ($50–$70).

2. Independence Palace, Ward 1

A 25-minute ride to 135 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia, this 1966 palace marks Vietnam’s 1975 reunification.

• Cost: Adults $3.45 (80,000 VND); children $0.85 (20,000 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM–4:30 PM.

• Tip: Explore the bunker; included in our Saigon Heritage Tour ($50–$70).

3. Ben Thanh Market, Ward 1

A 20-minute Grab to 4 Phan Boi Chau, this 1914 market offers local cuisine and crafts.

• Cost: Free; food $1–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM–7:00 PM.

• Tip: Try Bún Riêu Gánh; included in our Saigon Foodie Tour ($55–$75).

4. War Remnants Museum, Ward 3

A 15-minute Grab to 28 Vo Van Tan, this museum details Vietnam’s war history.

• Cost: $1.70 (40,000 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 7:30 AM–5:00 PM.

• Tip: Allow 2 hours; included in our Saigon Historical Tour ($50–$70).

5. Thien Hau Pagoda, Ward 5

A 25-minute Grab to 710 Nguyen Trai, this 1760 Chinese temple features ornate architecture.

• Cost: Free; donations $0.50–$2 (12,500–50,000 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM–5:00 PM.

• Tip: See dragon motifs; included in our Saigon Cultural Tour ($50–$70).

Costs and Budget Planning

Festival Costs

• Ong Dia Festival: Free; donations $0.50–$2 (12,500–50,000 VND).

• Food Stalls: $1–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND).

• Souvenirs: $1–$10 (25,000–250,000 VND).

Transportation

• Metro Line 1: $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND).

• Bus #103: $0.55–$0.80 (15,000–20,000 VND).

• Grab/Taxi: $3–$5 (75,000–125,000 VND) within Go Vap Ward; $5–$8 (120,000–200,000 VND) from Ward 1.

• Bicycle Rental: $1–$3/day (25,000–75,000 VND).

Dining (Nearby)

• Street Food: $1–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND).

• Restaurants: $5–$15 (125,000–375,000 VND).

• Drinks: $0.50–$3 (12,500–75,000 VND).

Accommodation (Go Vap Ward or Ward 1)

• Hostels: $8–$20/night (200,000–500,000 VND).

• Hotels: $25–$80/night (625,000–2,000,000 VND).

• Resorts: $100–$250/night (2,500,000–6,250,000 VND).

Total Daily Cost

• Budget: $15–$40 (includes donations, metro, street food).

• Mid-range: $40–$80 (includes tours, Grab, dining).

• Luxury: $100–$300 (includes private tours, upscale lodging).

Tip: Carry VND for small transactions; ATMs are available in Go Vap Ward.

• Book Early: Reserve tours via Legend Travel Group (WhatsApp: +84825862222, sales@legendtravelgroup.com) 3–5 weeks ahead for mid-March.

• Seasonal Tips: March falls in the dry season; use sunscreen and visit mornings for cooler weather. Carry a raincoat ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND) for unexpected showers.

• Bargaining: Negotiate politely for souvenirs at stalls; start at 50% of quoted prices.

• Safety: Watch for pickpockets in crowded temple areas; use crossbody bags.

• Sustainability: Use reusable straws; support local vendors for snacks like bánh tét.

• Navigation: Download Maps.me, Grab; save Ong Dia Temple (125 Le Loi, Go Vap Ward) as a landmark.

• Cultural Respect: Dress modestly; maintain silence during rituals; say “cảm ơn” (thank you); tip performers $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND).

• Health: Drink bottled water ($0.50 or 12,500 VND); choose busy food stalls for hygiene.

Our sustainable tours showcase the Ong Dia Festival and Saigon’s heritage:

• Saigon Cultural Tour ($50–$70/person): Ong Dia Festival, Ngoc Hoang Pagoda, Notre-Dame Basilica. Includes Metro Line 1, guide, lunch.

• Saigon Heritage Tour ($50–$70/person): Ong Dia Festival, Independence Palace, War Remnants Museum. Includes bike rentals, guide, snacks.

• Saigon Foodie Tour ($55–$75/person): Ong Dia Festival, Ben Thanh Market, Cholon street food. Includes eco-transfers, guide, meals.

• Saigon Cultural Escape ($200–$350/person, 2–3 days): Ong Dia Festival, Cu Chi Tunnels, Mekong Delta. Includes meals, eco-transfers.

Prices include English-speaking guides, eco-transfers, and fees. Get 10% off for groups of 8+ or seasonal promotions. Book via links on this page! TripAdvisor Reviews

Ong Dia Festival, a cultural gem in Ho Chi Minh City’s Go Vap Commune, offers an authentic celebration of Southern Vietnamese folk traditions with lively rituals, dragon dances, and local food stalls ($1–$5, 25,000–125,000 VND), enchanting thousands yearly with free entry. Legend Travel Group’s Ho Chi Minh City Tours guide you through this vibrant event, ensuring a sustainable Ho Chi Minh City Travel experience with eco-friendly practices like low-impact tours and support for local communities, paired with visits to Ben Thanh Market and Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica. Don’t miss out—contact Legend Travel Group to browse our featured tours and book your eco-friendly festival adventure today!
Ready to join the Ong Dia Festival’s lively rituals? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and immerse in Ho Chi Minh City’s rich heritage!

Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, guiding 100,000+ travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.

Sources:

• Ong Dia Festival Information: By Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group