Must-Experience Festivals in Nam Dinh: Ninh Binh Province’s Vibrant Cultural Celebrations

The Nam Dinh region, now a ward of Ninh Binh Province following Vietnam’s administrative restructuring, is a cultural heartland in the Red River Delta, renowned for its vibrant festivals that celebrate centuries-old traditions, spiritual beliefs, and community spirit. From the mystical Vieng Market Festival, where locals seek “lucky” copper purchases, to the sacred Phu Day Festival honoring Goddess Lieu Hanh, Nam Dinh’s events offer travelers a chance to immerse themselves in Vietnam’s rich heritage. These festivals, held primarily in spring, blend rituals, music, and local cuisine, creating unforgettable experiences. Legend Travel Group, a leader in sustainable tourism, invites you to join these celebrations through our eco-friendly tours—book via links throughout this guide. Dive into our comprehensive guide to Nam Dinh’s must-experience festivals, featuring key events, updated costs, and sustainable travel tips for an authentic cultural journey in Ninh Binh Province.

Nam Dinh’s festivals are a compelling reason to visit:

• Cultural Immersion: Participate in rituals, folk performances, and markets that showcase Vietnam’s traditions.

• Spiritual Significance: Events like Phu Day and Tran Temple festivals connect visitors to Vietnam’s sacred heritage.

• Vibrant Atmosphere: Enjoy lively processions, music, and local delicacies like Siu Chau candy (~50,000 VND, ~$2 USD/500g).

• Sustainable Tourism: Legend Travel Group’s eco-tours support local artisans and minimize environmental impact, aligning with Ninh Binh’s sustainability goals.

• Seasonal Timing: Spring (February–April) offers mild weather (15–25°C) and peak festival activity, ideal for travel.

Our sustainable tours, displayed around this article, ensure an authentic and eco-conscious festival experience. Book now to celebrate Nam Dinh’s culture with Legend Travel Group!

Following Vietnam’s administrative changes, the former Nam Dinh Province is now a ward within Ninh Binh Province, with Ninh Binh City as the provincial hub. The district level has been abolished, improving infrastructure and access to Nam Dinh’s festival sites. This guide refers to the Nam Dinh region, ensuring accurate planning within Ninh Binh’s tourism framework.

Nam Dinh’s festivals peak during the lunar New Year and spring (lunar January–March, typically January–April), aligning with Tet and post-harvest celebrations. This period offers mild weather (15–25°C), vibrant community participation, and a festive ambiance. Key festivals occur in lunar January (Vieng Market, Tran Temple) and March (Phu Day), making spring the ideal season for cultural immersion. Autumn (September–November, 18–28°C) hosts smaller events, while summer (May–August, 25–35°C) and winter (December–January, 10–20°C) see fewer festivals due to rain or cooler temperatures. Plan your visit for lunar January–March to catch the region’s most iconic celebrations, booking tours 2–3 weeks in advance for peak events.

Nam Dinh’s festivals are a vibrant blend of spirituality, tradition, and community, offering immersive experiences for travelers. Below are the must-experience events, with details on dates, activities, costs, and cultural significance.

1. Vieng Market Festival

A legendary market held annually on lunar January 7–8 (typically February), Vieng Market is famous for its “lucky” copper purchases and festive midnight ambiance.

• Date: Lunar January 7–8 (2026: ~February 14–15; confirm lunar calendar).

• Location: Vu Ban, Nam Dinh region (~15 km from Nam Dinh City).

• Significance:

  • Linked to a historical figure who introduced copper casting; buying copper items is believed to bring prosperity.

  • A cultural hub where locals pray for health and business success.

  • Features a folk song celebrating its annual tradition.

• Activities:

  • Shop for copper crafts (~50,000–200,000 VND, ~$2–$8 USD), Siu Chau candy (~50,000 VND, ~$2 USD/500g), and local goods.

  • Enjoy midnight-to-dawn market bustle, folk music, and temple prayers.

  • Taste street food like bánh gai (~20,000 VND, ~$0.80 USD).

• Cost: Free entry; items/food ~10,000–200,000 VND (~$0.40–$8 USD); parking ~5,000–15,000 VND (~$0.20–$0.60 USD).

• Highlights: “A mystical cultural immersion” (Tripadvisor, 4.6/5 stars).

• Tips:

  • Arrive at midnight for the unique atmosphere; book tours 2–3 weeks in advance.

  • Haggle politely; bring cash (VND); secure valuables in crowds.

  • Combine with Phu Day Relic Complex (~5 km) for a cultural day.

• Book Now: Legend Travel Group’s Festival Immersion Tour (~1,500,000 VND, ~$60 USD) includes Vieng Market, temple visits, and eco-transfers.

2. Phu Day Festival

A sacred celebration honoring Goddess Lieu Hanh, part of Vietnam’s UNESCO-recognized Mother Goddess worship, held in Vu Ban.

• Date: Lunar March 3–8 (2026: ~March 30–April 4; confirm lunar calendar).

• Location: Phu Day Relic Complex, Vu Ban, Nam Dinh region (~15 km from Nam Dinh City).

• Significance:

  • Commemorates Lieu Hanh, a revered deity in Vietnam’s matriarchal spiritual tradition.

  • Features processions, folk songs, and spiritual rituals.

  • Reflects Tran Dynasty influences and local devotion.

• Activities:

  • Watch colorful processions, traditional music, and chau van (spiritual singing).

  • Offer incense at Tien Huong and Van Cat temples (~30,000 VND, ~$1.20 USD entry).

  • Savor local snacks like kem xôi (~15,000 VND, ~$0.60 USD).

• Cost: Free entry; temple admission ~30,000 VND (~$1.20 USD); donations ~10,000–25,000 VND (~$0.40–$1 USD).

• Highlights: “A spiritual spectacle” (Vietnam Tourism, 4.5/5 stars).

• Tips:

  • Visit early morning (7:00–10:00 AM) to avoid crowds; dress modestly.

  • Book tours for guided insights; combine with Vieng Market (~5 km).

  • Respect temple etiquette; no photography inside sanctums.

• Book Now: Legend Travel Group’s Spiritual Retreat Tour (~1,250,000 VND, ~$50 USD) includes Phu Day, chau van performances, and eco-transfers.

3. Tran Temple Festival

A grand festival celebrating the Tran Dynasty’s victories over Mongol invaders, held at the iconic Tran Temple in Tuc Mac Village.

• Date: Lunar January 14–15 (2026: ~February 21–22; confirm lunar calendar).

• Location: Tran Temple, Tuc Mac Village, Nam Dinh region (~10 km from Nam Dinh City).

• Significance:

  • Honors Tran Hung Dao and 14 Tran kings for their 13th-century triumphs.

  • Features the Royal Seal Opening Ceremony, symbolizing prosperity.

  • Draws devotees for prayers of good fortune and health.

• Activities:

  • Witness processions, drum performances, and the seal-opening ritual.

  • Offer incense at Thien Truong, Co Trach, and Trung Hoa temples (~30,000 VND, ~$1.20 USD entry).

  • Enjoy street food like phở bò (~50,000 VND, ~$2 USD).

• Cost: Free entry; temple admission ~30,000 VND (~$1.20 USD); donations ~10,000–25,000 VND (~$0.40–$1 USD).

• Highlights: “A vibrant historical tribute” (Tripadvisor, 4.6/5 stars).

• Tips:

  • Arrive early (6:00–8:00 AM) for prime viewing; book tours 2–3 weeks in advance.

  • Dress modestly; combine with Pho Minh Pagoda (~1 km).

  • Use Highway 38B for access; expect crowds.

• Book Now: Legend Travel Group’s Tran Heritage Tour (~1,500,000 VND, ~$60 USD) includes Tran Temple Festival, guided rituals, and eco-transfers.

4. Co Le Pagoda Festival

A traditional festival honoring General Le Hoan of the Le Dynasty, featuring boat races and folk games in a lively riverside setting.

• Date: Lunar April 22–24 (2026: ~May 18–20; confirm lunar calendar).

• Location: Co Le Pagoda, Truc Ninh, Nam Dinh region (~20 km from Nam Dinh City).

• Significance:

  • Commemorates Le Hoan’s contributions to the Le Dynasty (980–1009).

  • Showcases local river culture and community unity.

  • Draws families for traditional games and prayers.

• Activities:

  • Watch boat races on the Ninh Co River; join folk games like tug-of-war.

  • Offer incense at Co Le Pagoda (~20,000 VND, ~$0.80 USD entry).

  • Taste local sweets like bánh nhãn (~100,000 VND, ~$4 USD/500g).

• Cost: Free entry; pagoda admission ~20,000 VND (~$0.80 USD); donations ~5,000–15,000 VND (~$0.20–$0.60 USD).

• Highlights: “A lively riverside tradition” (Nhan Dân Online, 4.3/5 stars).

• Tips:

  • Visit midday (10:00 AM–2:00 PM) for boat races; bring sunscreen for outdoor events.

  • Combine with Truc Ninh’s rural markets (~2 km); book local guides (~100,000 VND, ~$4 USD).

  • Expect moderate crowds; carry cash for vendors.

• Book Now: Legend Travel Group’s Rural Festival Tour (~1,250,000 VND, ~$50 USD) includes Co Le Pagoda, boat race viewing, and eco-transfers.

Nam Dinh’s festivals offer immersive cultural experiences that deepen your understanding of Vietnam’s traditions:

• Participate in Rituals: Offer incense at temples like Phu Day (~10,000 VND, ~$0.40 USD) or join prayers for prosperity, connecting with local spirituality.

• Engage with Locals: Chat with artisans at Vieng Market or watch folk performances at Tran Temple, learning about Nam Dinh’s heritage.

• Savor Festival Foods: Try specialties like bánh gai (~20,000 VND, ~$0.80 USD) or kem xôi (~15,000 VND, ~$0.60 USD) at market stalls, reflecting local culinary traditions.

• Witness Traditional Arts: Enjoy chau van singing at Phu Day or dragon dances at Co Le, showcasing Vietnam’s folk culture.

• Shop for Crafts: Purchase “lucky” copper items (~50,000 VND, ~$2 USD) or handmade goods at Vieng Market, supporting local artisans.

• Sustainable Participation: Choose Legend Travel Group’s eco-tours to minimize environmental impact and support community-led festivals.

These experiences highlight Nam Dinh’s role as a cultural hub, preserving traditions for generations.

From Hanoi (90–100 km, ~1.5–2 hours)

• Bus: Giap Bat to Nam Dinh Bus Station (~100,000 VND, ~$4 USD), then taxi to Vu Ban (~100,000 VND, ~$4 USD).

• Train: Reunification Express to Nam Dinh Station (~75,000–150,000 VND, ~$3–$6 USD), then taxi (~100,000 VND, ~$4 USD).

• Motorbike: Rental ~100,000–250,000 VND (~$4–$10 USD/day), fuel ~50,000 VND (~$2 USD).

• Book Now: Legend Travel Group’s Festival Transport Tour (~1,500,000 VND, ~$60 USD) includes eco-transfers.

From Ho Chi Minh City (1,300 km, ~4–5 hours by flight + road)

• Flight + Road: Fly to Hanoi’s Noi Bai Airport (~750,000–1,750,000 VND, ~$30–$70 USD), then bus/taxi (~200,000–1,200,000 VND, ~$8–$48 USD).

• Train + Road: Reunification Express to Nam Dinh (~750,000–2,000,000 VND, ~$30–$80 USD, 32–35 hours), then taxi (~100,000 VND, ~$4 USD).

• Book Now: Legend Travel Group’s Flight & Festival Tour (~3,500,000 VND, ~$140 USD) includes flights and transfers.

From Ninh Binh City Center (15–20 km, ~20–30 minutes)

• Motorbike: ~120,000–200,000 VND (~$5–$8 USD/day), fuel ~20,000 VND (~$0.80 USD).

• Taxi/Grab: ~100,000–150,000 VND (~$4–$6 USD/trip).

• Bicycle: ~50,000–100,000 VND (~$2–$4 USD/day), ~45–60 minutes.

• Book Now: Legend Travel Group’s Local Festival Tour (~1,000,000 VND, ~$40 USD) includes transfers.

Within the Nam Dinh Region (5–20 km, ~10–30 minutes)

• Bicycle: ~50,000–100,000 VND (~$2–$4 USD/day).

• Motorbike: ~120,000–200,000 VND (~$5–$8 USD/day), fuel ~10,000 VND (~$0.40 USD).

• Book Now: Legend Travel Group’s Festival Shuttle (~750,000 VND, ~$30 USD) includes eco-transfers.

Route Tip: Use Highway 38B for Vu Ban or Tuc Mac; offline maps (e.g., Maps.me) recommended. Parking: ~5,000–15,000 VND (~$0.20–$0.60 USD/motorbike).

• Plan Ahead: Book tours 2–3 weeks in advance for lunar January–March via Legend Travel Group or Baolau.com (+84 938 123 456). Confirm lunar dates annually.

• Pack Smart: Bring sunscreen, hat, reusable water bottle, comfortable shoes; modest clothing for temples; festive attire for markets.

• Budget Wisely: Expect ~30,000 VND (~$1.20 USD) for temple entries; daily costs ~500,000–1,750,000 VND (~$20–$70 USD, including transport/dining).

• Safety: Secure valuables in crowded markets; inform vendors of allergies (e.g., peanuts in Siu Chau candy); carry a translation app.

• Sustainability: Support local artisans; use reusable items; choose eco-tours to preserve festival heritage.

• Navigation: Allow 2–4 hours per festival; combine Vieng Market and Phu Day (~5 km apart) for efficiency; use Maps.me for rural routes.

• Cultural Respect: Dress modestly at temples; greet locals with “xin chào” (hello); tip ~5,000–25,000 VND (~$0.20–$1 USD) for great service.

• Festival Entry:

  • Vieng Market: Free; items/food ~10,000–200,000 VND (~$0.40–$8 USD).

  • Phu Day/Tran Temple: ~30,000 VND (~$1.20 USD); donations ~10,000–25,000 VND (~$0.40–$1 USD).

  • Co Le Pagoda: ~20,000 VND (~$0.80 USD); donations ~5,000–15,000 VND (~$0.20–$0.60 USD).

• Dining: Street food (bánh gai, kem xôi): ~15,000–80,000 VND (~$0.60–$3.20 USD); restaurants: ~100,000–300,000 VND (~$4–$12 USD).

• Transport:

  • From Hanoi: Bus + taxi: ~200,000 VND (~$8 USD); train + taxi: ~175,000–250,000 VND (~$7–$10 USD); motorbike: ~150,000–300,000 VND (~$6–$12 USD).

  • From Ho Chi Minh City: Flight + road: ~950,000–4,700,000 VND (~$38–$188 USD); train + road: ~850,000–2,150,000 VND (~$34–$86 USD).

  • From Ninh Binh City: Motorbike: ~140,000–220,000 VND (~$5–$9 USD); taxi: ~100,000–150,000 VND (~$4–$6 USD); bicycle: ~50,000–100,000 VND (~$2–$4 USD).

  • Within Nam Dinh: Bicycle: ~50,000–100,000 VND (~$2–$4 USD); motorbike: ~130,000–210,000 VND (~$5–$8 USD).

• Accommodation: Budget homestays: ~300,000–600,000 VND (~$12–$24 USD/night); mid-range hotels: ~800,000–1,500,000 VND (~$32–$60 USD); luxury: ~3,000,000 VND (~$120 USD).

• Total Daily Cost: ~500,000–1,750,000 VND (~$20–$70 USD) (budget: ~$20–$35 USD; mid-range: ~$35–$50 USD; luxury: ~$50–$70 USD).

• Tip: Use VND; ATMs in Nam Dinh City (Vietcombank, Agribank); book tours for eco-transfers and savings.

Our sustainable tours immerse you in Nam Dinh’s festive spirit:

• Festival Immersion Tour (~1,500,000 VND, ~$60 USD/person): Vieng Market, Phu Day, local crafts; includes eco-transfers and lunch.

• Tran Heritage Tour (~1,500,000 VND, ~$60 USD/person): Tran Temple Festival, Pho Minh Pagoda, phở tasting; includes guided rituals and eco-transfers.

• Rural Festival Tour (~1,250,000 VND, ~$50 USD/person): Co Le Pagoda Festival, Ninh Co River boat races, rural markets; includes bike rentals and snacks.

• Ninh Binh Cultural Odyssey (~8,500,000–13,500,000 VND, ~$340–$540 USD/person, 3–4 days): Nam Dinh festivals, Trang An, homestays (~300,000–600,000 VND, ~$12–$24 USD/night); includes all activities, meals, eco-transfers.

Prices include English-speaking guides, eco-transfers, activities, and meals/snacks. Group discounts (10% off for 10+ travelers) available. Book now via links around this page!

Nam Dinh in Ninh Binh Province is a cultural treasure, where festivals like Vieng Market, Phu Day, and Tran Temple bring Vietnam’s traditions to life with vibrant rituals, music, and community spirit. These events offer travelers a chance to connect with local heritage while enjoying festive foods and crafts. Legend Travel Group’s Nam Dinh Tours provide a sustainable way to experience Nam Dinh’s celebrations, ensuring a sustainable Nam Dinh Travel experience that supports artisans and preserves cultural legacy. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your Nam Dinh adventure today!
Ready to join Nam Dinh’s cultural festivals? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and immerse in Vietnam’s vibrant traditions!

Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, personally guiding and organizing tours for over 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