Discover the Ooc Om Bok Festival in Soc Trang! Explore Khmer moon worship, Ngo boat races, costs, and sustainable tours. Book eco-tours with Legend Travel Group for an unforgettable Mekong Delta experience!
Capture the dynamic energy of Soc Trang’s cultural celebration (Source: Internet)Soc Trang, a cultural gem in the Mekong Delta, now part of the expanded Can Tho City administrative region, is a vibrant destination 230 km from Ho Chi Minh City. Renowned for its Khmer, Vietnamese, and Chinese heritage, Soc Trang attracts over 3 million visitors annually. The Ooc Om Bok Festival, also known as the Moon Worship Festival, is the region’s most significant Khmer celebration, held on the full moon of the 10th lunar month (typically October–November). Recognized as a national intangible cultural heritage in 2015, this festival draws hundreds of thousands to honor the Moon Goddess for bountiful harvests, favorable weather, and prosperity. With thrilling Ngo boat races, water lantern releases, and traditional performances, it’s a cultural spectacle. Soc Trang’s commitment to sustainable tourism, through the “Mekong Green” initiative, ensures an eco-friendly experience. Legend Travel Group, a leading local tour operator, offers sustainable tours to immerse you in this vibrant festival. Contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com to book your adventure
Legend Travel Group specializes in authentic, sustainable Southeast Asian experiences across Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, and Myanmar. Our Soc Trang tours use low-impact transport—bicycles, electric boats, and eco-vans—guided by local experts who share the region’s cultural stories. Supporting communities in Soc Trang’s central ward and Nga Nam, we align with Can Tho City’s vision to preserve its heritage. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support, we ensure a seamless journey. Book our eco-tours via the links on this page and celebrate Ooc Om Bok responsibly!
Vietnam’s administrative restructuring has merged Soc Trang and Hau Giang into Can Tho City, with Can Tho as the administrative hub. District-level units are now wards or communes, making Can Tho City Vietnam’s largest by landmass. Enhanced by sustainable infrastructure—cycling paths, electric buses, and a VND800 billion flood mitigation project—Soc Trang’s festival sites, like the Maspero River, are easily accessible, offering a perfect blend of cultural and eco-tourism exploration.
Experience Soc Trang Tours with sustainable adventures (Source: Internet)Held annually on the 14th and 15th of the 10th lunar month, Ooc Om Bok is Soc Trang’s largest Khmer festival, marking the transition from the rainy to dry season and the end of the rice harvest. Rooted in Khmer beliefs, it honors the Moon Goddess, who regulates weather and crops, with offerings like green rice flakes, bananas, and taro. The festival, meaning “eating new rice” in Khmer, combines solemn moon-worshipping rituals with vibrant celebrations, including Ngo boat races, water lantern releases, and traditional performances like Dù Kê opera and Chhay Yam dances. Held at pagodas like Kh’leang or along the Maspero River, it attracts locals and tourists, fostering community unity and cultural pride. Recognized by Vietnam’s Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism, Ooc Om Bok is a must-experience event showcasing Soc Trang’s Khmer identity.
The Ooc Om Bok Festival occurs on the full moon night of the 10th lunar month, typically mid-October to mid-November, aligning with the harvest’s end and the dry season’s start. Spanning 3–7 days, with main events on the 14th and 15th, the festival peaks with moon-worshipping ceremonies in the evening and Ngo boat races during the day. In Soc Trang, key activities unfold along the Maspero River and at Bạch Đằng Square, with additional events at the Khmer Culture Exhibition Hall and local pagodas. For precise dates, check lunar calendars or contact Legend Travel Group, as dates vary yearly (e.g., November 16–22 in a recent year). Book 3–5 weeks in advance for peak festival days to secure accommodations and tours, as prices rise 10–20%.
Seize the vibrant spirit of Soc Trang Travel (Source: Internet)The Ooc Om Bok Festival blends sacred rituals with lively festivities, offering a rich cultural experience. Here are the key activities:
The festival’s heart, held at dusk on the 14th when the moon rises, involves offerings of green rice flakes (cốm dẹp), bananas, coconuts, taro, and cakes on decorated bamboo altars in pagoda yards or village homes. Led by elders or monks, participants pray for prosperity, with children receiving rice flakes for blessings.
Cost: Free; donations $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND) appreciated.
Hours: Evening, typically 6:00 PM–9:00 PM.
Tip: Arrive early for a clear view; dress modestly (covered shoulders, knees). Included in our Soc Trang Festival Tour ($70–$90).
A thrilling highlight, the Mekong Delta Ngo boat races on the Maspero River feature 50–60 teams of 50–60 rowers in 22–24-meter dragon-shaped boats, competing over 1,200 meters (men) or 1,000 meters (women). Symbolizing gratitude to the Water God, the races draw massive crowds.
Cost: Free viewing; premium riverside seats $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).
Hours: Daytime, typically 8:00 AM–4:00 PM on the 14th–15th.
Tip: Stake out spots by 7:00 AM for prime viewing. Included in our Soc Trang Festival Tour ($70–$90).
At night, locals release colorful paper lanterns shaped like boats onto the Maspero River or freshwater lakes, symbolizing gratitude to water and earth gods and prayers for luck.
Cost: Lanterns $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND); guided release tours $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).
Hours: Evening, 7:00 PM–10:00 PM.
Tip: Use eco-friendly lanterns to support sustainability. Included in our Soc Trang Festival Tour ($70–$90).
Enjoy Khmer arts like Dù Kê opera, Chhay Yam dances, and ngũ âm (Pinpeat) music, a nine-instrument ensemble recognized as a national intangible heritage in 2019. Performances occur at Bạch Đằng Square and the Khmer Culture Exhibition Hall.
Cost: Free; premium seating $3–$7 (75,000–175,000 VND).
Hours: Evening, 6:00 PM–10:00 PM.
Tip: Wear traditional Khmer attire ($10–$20 rental or 250,000–500,000 VND) for immersion. Included in our Soc Trang Cultural Tour ($55–$75).
Participate in chess, traditional cooking challenges, costume contests, and folk games like tug-of-war, fostering community spirit.
Cost: Free to watch; participation fees $1–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND).
Hours: Daytime, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM.
Tip: Join cooking contests to learn Khmer recipes. Included in our Soc Trang Festival Tour ($70–$90).
Sample Khmer dishes like Bún Nước Lèo ($1–$3 or 25,000–75,000 VND), Bánh Cóng ($0.50–$1.50 or 12,500–37,500 VND), and Bánh In ($0.50–$1.50 or 12,500–37,500 VND) at food stalls.
Cost: $1–$5/dish (25,000–125,000 VND).
Hours: All day, 8:00 AM–10:00 PM.
Tip: Try stalls using local ingredients for sustainability. Included in our Soc Trang Foodie Tour ($50–$70).
Explore Soc Trang’s “One Commune One Product” (OCOP) fair, showcasing crafts, dried buffalo meat ($10–$20/500g or 250,000–500,000 VND), and tourism products.
Cost: Free entry; purchases $2–$20 (50,000–500,000 VND).
Hours: 9:00 AM–9:00 PM.
Tip: Buy eco-friendly crafts like woven baskets. Included in our Soc Trang Cultural Tour ($55–$75).
Immerse in Rituals: Join moon-worshipping ceremonies at Kh’leang Pagoda, offering prayers and tasting green rice flakes for blessings.
Cheer at Boat Races: Watch Ngo boat races from Maspero River’s banks, arriving early for a front-row view of the vibrant competition.
Release Lanterns: Craft and release eco-friendly water lanterns on the river, whispering prayers for luck, guided by local experts.
Enjoy Performances: Attend Dù Kê opera or ngũ âm concerts at Bạch Đằng Square, wearing Khmer attire for a deeper cultural connection.
Savor Khmer Cuisine: Taste Bún Nước Lèo and Bánh Cóng at the cuisine festival, pairing with lotus tea ($0.50 or 12,500 VND) for authenticity.
Participate in Games: Try folk games or cooking contests to engage with locals, learning Khmer traditions firsthand.
Shop Sustainably: Purchase OCOP products like dried fish or woven crafts, supporting local artisans and eco-friendly practices.
Tip: Dress comfortably yet respectfully (avoid revealing clothing); arrive early for key events; use reusable items to align with sustainability goals.
Begin your Soc Trang Tours with a cultural adventure (Source: Internet)The festival’s core days, the 14th and 15th of the 10th lunar month (typically October–November), offer the most vibrant experiences, with moon-worshipping, boat races, and lantern releases. The surrounding 3–7 days feature additional events like fairs and performances, ideal for extended visits. The dry season (November–April, 25–34°C or 77–93.2°F) ensures pleasant weather, though festival crowds peak, raising accommodation prices by 10–20%. Visiting on secondary days (e.g., 13th or 16th) offers quieter experiences with similar cultural immersion. For fewer crowds, explore Soc Trang in May–June, though missing the festival. Check lunar calendars and AccuWeather for precise timing and weather updates. Book 3–5 weeks in advance to secure festival tours and lodging.
By Air: Fly to Can Tho International Airport (VCA), 60 km away, from Ho Chi Minh City ($70–$140 or 1,750,000–3,500,000 VND, 45 minutes) or Hanoi ($100–$180 or 2,500,000–4,500,000 VND, 2 hours 10 minutes). Eco-van transfers to Soc Trang cost $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND, 1–1.5 hours).
By Bus: From Ho Chi Minh City (5–6 hours, $6–$15 or 150,000–375,000 VND) via operators like Phuong Trang (Futa Bus) from Mien Tay Bus Station. From Can Tho (1–1.5 hours, $3–$6 or 75,000–150,000 VND). Book via Baolau or Vexere.
By Private Eco-Van: From Can Tho or Ho Chi Minh City, $50–$80 (1,250,000–2,000,000 VND) for 2–4 passengers, arranged through Legend Travel Group.
Tip: Book bus tickets early for festival dates; use eco-vans for sustainability. Download MyCanTho app for schedules.
Festival Activities:
Moon-Worshipping, Performances, Boat Race Viewing: Free; donations $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND).
Premium Seats (Races, Shows): $3–$10 (75,000–250,000 VND).
Water Lanterns: $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND); guided tours $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).
Folk Games/Contests: $1–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND).
Food Stalls: $1–$5/dish (25,000–125,000 VND).
OCOP Fair Purchases: $2–$20 (50,000–500,000 VND).
Transport in Soc Trang:
Taxi/Grab (1–5 km): $2–$4 (50,000–100,000 VND).
Motorbike Rental: $5–$10/day (125,000–250,000 VND); fuel $1–$2/liter (25,000–50,000 VND).
River Boat: $10–$20/hour (250,000–500,000 VND, shared).
Bicycle Rental: $1–$2/day (25,000–50,000 VND).
Accommodation (Soc Trang Central Ward):
Hostels/Guesthouses: $15–$30/night (375,000–750,000 VND, festival rates).
Hotels: $35–$120/night (875,000–3,000,000 VND).
Resorts: $150–$350/night (3,750,000–8,750,000 VND).
Total Daily Cost (Excluding Tours):
Budget: $20–$50 (free events, street food, bike rental, guesthouse).
Mid-range: $50–$100 (paid seats, dining, taxi, hotel).
Luxury: $100–$200 (premium experiences, upscale dining, resort).
Tip: Use ATMs in Soc Trang Central Ward; carry VND for vendors. Book accommodations early for festival savings (15–20%).
Book Early: Reserve flights, hotels, and tours 3–5 weeks in advance via Legend Travel Group (+84 938 987 654) or Klook to avoid festival price surges.
Navigation: Download offline maps (Maps.me) or MyCanTho app. Festival sites like Maspero River are bike-friendly; use taxis for rural pagodas.
Sustainability: Use bicycles or electric boats; buy eco-friendly lanterns and crafts; support local vendors to align with Mekong Green initiatives.
Cultural Respect: Dress modestly (covered shoulders, knees); say “cảm ơn” (thank you); tip vendors/guides ($1–$2 or 25,000–50,000 VND); avoid touching offerings.
Health Precautions: Apply mosquito repellent for evening events; bring sunscreen (SPF 50+); stay hydrated with reusable bottles.
Safety: Secure valuables in crowded festival areas; avoid flooded rural routes in October–November.
Experience Ooc Om Bok with our sustainable tours:
Soc Trang Festival Tour ($70–$90/person): Moon-worshipping, Ngo boat races, lantern release, cuisine festival. Includes eco-transfers, English-speaking guide, and meals.
Soc Trang Cultural Tour ($55–$75/person): Festival events, Kh’leang Pagoda, Khmer Museum. Includes bike rentals and snacks.
Mekong River Adventure ($60–$80/person): Festival boat races, Nga Nam Floating Market, river cruise. Includes electric boat transfers and lunch.
Soc Trang Foodie Tour ($50–$70/person): Festival food stalls, Soc Trang Central Market, cooking class. Includes eco-transfers and meals.
Mekong Delta Explorer ($250–$400/person, 2–3 days): Ooc Om Bok, pagodas, markets, eco-tours across Soc Trang. Includes all activities, meals, and eco-transfers.
Prices include English-speaking guides, eco-transfers, entrance fees, and meals/snacks. Enjoy 10% off for groups of 8+ or seasonal promotions. Book now via links around this page!
Ooc Om Bok Festival in Soc Trang is a dazzling celebration of Khmer culture, blending moon-worshipping rituals, thrilling Ngo boat races, and vibrant performances. From releasing water lanterns on the Maspero River to savoring Bánh Cóng at food stalls, this festival offers an unforgettable cultural immersion. Legend Travel Group’s Soc Trang Tours guide you through Ooc Om Bok sustainably, ensuring a sustainable Soc Trang Travel experience that supports local communities and preserves Soc Trang’s heritage. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your festival adventure today!
Ready to celebrate Ooc Om Bok in Soc Trang? Reserve your eco-friendly tour with Legend Travel Group and dive into a Khmer cultural spectacle!
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
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