Experience the Ben Tre Coconut Festival: Cultural Highlights, Prices, and Guided Tours in Vinh Long

Nestled in the heart of Vinh Long province, Ben Tre ward, known as Vietnam’s “Coconut Kingdom,” hosts the annual Ben Tre Coconut Festival, a vibrant celebration of the region’s iconic coconut heritage. This dynamic event, held in late April to early May, transforms Ben Tre into a cultural hub, showcasing its history, eco-tourism potential, and artisanal craftsmanship. With over 75,000 hectares of coconut groves producing 600 million coconuts yearly, Ben Tre’s festival highlights the ingenuity of its people through coconut-based crafts, cuisine, and performances. From traditional đờn ca tài tử music to lively parades, the festival offers an immersive Mekong Delta experience for travelers seeking authenticity and festivity. Legend Travel Group, a premier local tour operator, curates guided tours that blend festival highlights with Ben Tre’s scenic waterways and culinary delights like kẹo dừa. Ready to join the coconut celebration? Book your tour via the links on this page and dive into Vinh Long’s cultural extravaganza

Legend Travel Group delivers authentic Vietnam experiences with English-speaking guides, sustainable partnerships with Ben Tre’s artisans, and seamless logistics. Our tours are crafted to inspire action, offering front-row access to the Coconut Festival’s events alongside explorations of My Tho’s Turtle Island and local markets. Reserve your spot now and let us guide you through this vibrant Mekong Delta celebration!

Launched in 2009, the Ben Tre Coconut Festival is an annual event (previously biennial) celebrating the ward’s coconut industry, which accounts for 40% of Vietnam’s coconut production, per vietnam.travel. Held at Hoang Lam Statue Park in Hung Vuong, Ben Tre, it honors the legacy of coconut farmers and artisans, dating back to the 19th century when Ben Tre became a coconut hub. The festival promotes eco-tourism, economic prospects, and cultural heritage, featuring reenactments of Ben Tre’s “Dong Khoi” revolutionary history and showcasing crafts like coconut baskets and candy. It attracts thousands, including international delegates from the World Coconut Association, fostering global trade and cultural exchange, as noted by legendtravelgroup.com.

The Ben Tre Coconut Festival typically occurs in late April to early May, aligning with Vietnam’s Reunification Day (April 30) for a festive atmosphere. The exact dates vary annually, announced by the Ben Tre Tourism Board three months prior, often spanning 5–7 days. The dry season timing (December–April) ensures warm, sunny weather (27–35°C), ideal for outdoor events like parades and markets. Check official tourism sites or Legend Travel Group for precise schedules, especially during the My Tho Sea Worshipping Festival in late May, which adds regional vibrancy.

The festival is a sensory delight, offering cultural performances, artisanal showcases, and culinary adventures. Below are the top experiences with estimated prices (1 USD ≈ 25,000 VND):

1. Enjoy Cultural Performances

Immerse yourself in đờ ca tài tử (UNESCO-recognized folk music), Cai Luong opera, and drum performances, alongside reenactments of Ben Tre’s history, including the “Dong Khoi” uprising. A mini-carnival features characters from Nguyen Dinh Chieu’s epic poem Luc Van Tien.

• Price: Free at public stages; premium seating $2–$5 (50,000–125,000 VND).

• Location: Hoang Lam Statue Park, Hung Vuong Street, Ben Tre.

• Highlights: “Soulful music, vibrant history” (Tripadvisor, 4.5/5 stars).

• Tip: Evening shows (6:00–9:00 PM) offer the best atmosphere; arrive early for seats.

2. Shop at Coconut Craft and Trade Fairs

Browse over 50 stalls showcasing coconut products, from intricate baskets ($5–$15) and woven mats ($3–$10) to lamps and vases ($10–$20). Trade fairs highlight local businesses and Mekong Delta provinces.

• Price: Free entry; souvenirs $1–$20 (25,000–500,000 VND).

• Hours: 7:00 AM–11:00 PM during festival.

• Highlights: “Eye-catching, eco-friendly crafts” (Mytour.vn).

• Tip: Bargain 10–20% off; focus on VietGAP-certified products for quality.

3. Savor Coconut-Based Cuisine

Taste signature dishes at the Southern Coconut Cuisine Festival, including banh xeo with coconut milk ($0.80–$1.60), coconut candy shrimp ($2–$4), and coconut jam ($2–$5/200g jar). Stalls offer kẹo dừa ($1–$2.40/300g) in flavors like durian and pandan.

• Price: Meals/snacks $0.80–$5 (20,000–125,000 VND); drinks $0.40–$0.80 (10,000–20,000 VND).

• Location: Cuisine area, Hoang Lam Park.

• Highlights: “Flavorful, coconut-rich dishes” (Vietnamplus.vn).

• Tip: Visit busy stalls for freshness; try coconut water rice ($1–$2) at Thuy Ta.

4. Participate in Traditional Games and Contests

Join folk games like tug-of-war, hessian sack jumping, or pot-banging, and watch coconut product contests, where artisans craft innovative items like furniture or sculptures.

• Price: Free to watch; participation $0.40–$1.20 (10,000–30,000 VND).

• Highlights: “Lively, community spirit” (Google Reviews, 4.6/5 stars).

• Tip: Morning games (8:00–11:00 AM) are less crowded; wear comfy shoes.

5. Experience the Festival Parade

Marvel at the opening ceremony’s float parade, featuring coconut-themed displays, traditional costumes, and tributes to Ben Tre’s revolutionary past.

• Price: Free along Hung Vuong Street; guided viewing with commentary $3–$7 (75,000–175,000 VND).

• Time: Evening of opening day (7:00–9:00 PM).

• Highlights: “Colorful, cultural spectacle” (Alotrip.com).

• Tip: Stake out spots by 6:00 PM; bring a camera for vibrant photos.

Our expertly crafted tours ensure you experience the festival’s highlights, paired with Ben Tre’s Mekong Delta charm. All include transportation, English-speaking guides, and entrance fees:

• Half-Day Coconut Festival Experience ($40–$60 per person)
  Attend the festival’s opening parade (free), taste kẹo dừa ($1–$2.40/300g) at cuisine stalls, and enjoy đờn ca tài tử($1–$3). Includes coconut craft shopping ($1–$20) and a coconut drink ($0.40–$0.80).

• Full-Day Festival and Mekong Adventure ($80–$120 per person)
  Explore festival events, visit Thanh Long Coconut Candy Factory ($1.20–$2.40/300g), and cruise Con Quy’s canals ($5–$10). Includes banh xeo lunch ($0.80–$1.60) and orchard tour ($2–$5).

• Private Festival and Culture Tour ($100–$150 per person, minimum 2 people)
  Customize with festival parade, a coconut craft workshop ($10 extra), and a visit to Vam Ho Bird Sanctuary ($0.80–$1.20). Includes a gift pack of candy ($1–$3) and fruits ($2–$6/kg).

• Combo Festival and My Tho Tour ($70–$90 per person)
  Experience festival highlights, visit Vinh Trang Pagoda (free), and taste hủ tiếu ($0.80–$1.60) at My Tho Market. Includes boat ride to Thoi Son Islet ($5–$10) and music performance.

• Multi-Day Mekong Delta Festival Journey ($200–$350 per person, 2–3 days)
  Immerse in the festival, explore Cai Be Floating Market ($5–$10 boat), and visit Con Quy orchards ($2–$5). Includes homestay at Mekong Rustic ($15–$30/night) and meals.

Prices include guides, transfers, activities, and meals/snacks. Exchange rate: 1 USD ≈ 25,000 VND. Group discounts for 10+ travelers. Book now for seasonal promotions!

The Ben Tre Coconut Festival is a cultural cornerstone, celebrating the ward’s 600-million-coconut industry and its resilient spirit, rooted in the “Dong Khoi” uprising, as per vietnamtravel.com. Its 50+ stalls, vibrant parades, and artisan contests highlight Ben Tre’s creativity, producing everything from kẹo dừa to coconut-shell vases. The festival’s eco-tourism focus promotes sustainable practices, while its proximity to My Tho’s Turtle Island and Ben Tre’s waterways enhances its appeal, per asiatouradvisor.com. Tripadvisor reviews praise the “ebullient atmosphere” but note crowded stalls; our tours offer priority access and vetted vendors for comfort. The event’s blend of tradition, innovation, and Mekong hospitality makes it a must-visit.

• Location: Hoang Lam Statue Park, Hung Vuong Street, Ward 5, Ben Tre, Vinh Long (central Ben Tre, 86 km from Ho Chi Minh City).

• By Motorbike: From Ho Chi Minh City, ride 86 km via National Highway 1 and Rach Mieu Bridge (2 hours; rental $7–$12/day, fuel $2–$4). Parking: $0.20–$0.50 (5,000–10,000 VND).

• By Bus: From Mien Tay Station (Ho Chi Minh City), 2-hour ride ($4–$8, 100,000–200,000 VND). Drop-off at Ben Tre Bus Station, 1 km from festival.

• By Taxi/Grab: $30–$50 (750,000–1,250,000 VND) from Ho Chi Minh City; Xanh SM taxis ($1.16 for 2 km) within Ben Tre.

• By Tour: Legend Travel Group includes round-trip transfers from Ho Chi Minh City or My Tho (70 km, 1.5 hours).

• Tip: Use Google Maps for navigation; arrive by 7:00 AM to avoid festival crowds.

• Plan Ahead: Check festival dates three months prior via Ben Tre Tourism or Legend Travel Group; book tours 2–3 weeks in advance for peak season (April–May).

• Pack Smart: Wear light layers, closed shoes for walking, and a hat for sun. Bring a reusable bag for souvenirs and raincoats for unexpected showers (May–November).

• Budget Wisely: Entry is free; budget $1–$20 for crafts, $0.80–$5 for food, and $2–$7 for activities. Bring small VND notes (5,000–20,000) for stalls.

• Respect Culture: Dress modestly (áo bà ba rentals $1–$2), greet locals with a smile, and ask permission before photographing performances.

• Stay Safe: Keep valuables secure in crowded areas; use crossbody bags. Stay hydrated with coconut water ($0.40–$0.80).

• Join a Guided Tour: Legend Travel Group’s tours ensure priority access, vetted vendors, and cultural context, addressing crowding and hygiene concerns noted on Tripadvisor.

Ready to immerse yourself in Ben Tre’s coconut culture? Legend Travel Group makes it effortless:

1. Browse Tours: Explore our festival-focused options on this page (right or below).

2. Customize Your Trip: Contact us for private tours, family-friendly itineraries, or culinary add-ons.

3. Book Seamlessly: Secure your spot with a small deposit and enjoy free cancellations up to 24 hours before departure.

4. Celebrate the Festival: Our guides deliver a vibrant, authentic experience in Vinh Long.

Book Now and let Legend Travel Group craft your unforgettable Ben Tre Coconut Festival journey!

The Ben Tre Coconut Festival in Vinh Long’s Ben Tre ward is a vibrant celebration of the Mekong Delta’s coconut heritage, offering cultural performances, artisanal crafts, and delectable cuisine. From đờn ca tài tử music to coconut candy stalls, this annual event in late April to early May showcases the ward’s history, creativity, and hospitality. Legend Travel Group’s Ben Tre Tours provide a seamless way to experience the festival, blending its highlights with Ben Tre’s orchards, waterways, and cultural gems for a sustainable Ben Tre Travel experience. Don’t just imagine the coconut kingdom’s festivities—join them. Browse our tours on this page and book your Ben Tre Coconut Festival adventure today!
Ready to experience the Ben Tre Coconut Festival? Reserve your tour with Legend Travel Group and celebrate Vinh Long’s coconut legacy!

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: By Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group