Doan Ngo Festival (Dragon Boat Festival) 2026
FestivalPast Event

Doan Ngo Festival (Dragon Boat Festival) 2026

Saturday, June 6, 2026
Saigon River and waterways throughout Vietnam
The Doan Ngo Festival, also known as the Dragon Boat Festival, takes place annually on the 5th day of the 5th lunar month, which in 2026 falls on June 6th. In Saigon, this traditional event unfolds along the Saigon River and extends to waterways throughout Vietnam. The festival centers around spirited dragon boat races, where teams row in synchrony to the beat of drums, showcasing skill and teamwork. Beyond the races, the day includes tasting traditional foods specially prepared for the occasion, such as sticky rice cakes and herbal rice wine, believed to help ward off diseases and negative influences common during the summer months. The festival also features cultural performances and rituals designed to bring good health and protection against evil spirits. Visitors have the chance to observe centuries-old customs and witness the community spirit that is deeply rooted in Vietnamese culture. The Doan Ngo Festival presents a lively atmosphere marked by color, sounds, and tastes that reflect local heritage and beliefs.

Tips for Attending

  • Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot along the riverbanks.
  • Try traditional festival dishes like bánh ú tro and rượu nếp.
  • Wear light, breathable clothing due to warm summer weather.
  • Bring sunscreen and stay hydrated during the daytime events.

Practical Information

Budget: Free to attend public events; food and drinks priced affordably.. Duration: The main events span most of the day, from morning through afternoon.. Food Drink: Local street stalls offer traditional festival foods and refreshing beverages.. What To Wear: Comfortable summer clothes, light fabrics, and comfortable walking shoes; a hat and sunglasses are recommended.. Getting There: Accessible by taxi, motorbike, or public transport to riverfront locations in District 1 and nearby areas.. Booking Advice: No advance booking required for public areas; some boat tour packages may need advance reservation.

Best For

Cultural EnthusiastsFamiliesFood LoversOutdoor Activities

Venue

Saigon River and waterways throughout Vietnam

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Activities During the Festival

Attending Doan Ngo Festival (Dragon Boat Festival) 2026? Make the most of your visit with these recommended activities.

Group of eight tourists smiling in front of a tall iron fence with a historic building and red flag behind
Cultural & Historical
Viator
10/10
Excellent
(24 reviews)

Participating in our tour, you will have the opportunity to visit all the city's outstanding tourist attractions by walking, you will also learn about Saigon's history and culture through hundreds of years old architectural works. Especially on this tour, you can also relax and enjoy a cup of Vietnamese specialty egg coffee or a cup of filter coffee and watch the streets next to the Saigon River. Why should you choose our walking tour product: Visit all of the city's highlights in a single tour. Departure times are diverse and specially designed according to your requirements. Small group tours so the number of guests on a tour is not too many so you can enjoy your time participating in the tour. We offer 3 options: Morning tour that starts at 7.00 AM. Afternoon that starts at 2.30 PM and Evening tour and start at 6.00PM.

From
~€31
per person
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People in small boats with colorful lanterns on a river at night with crowds on the riverbank
River Cruises
Viator
10/10
Excellent
(26 reviews)

TOUR PROGRAM : 14:00p.m : Our guide will pick you up from your hotel in Da Nang or Hoi An City. Then, We Transfer to Marble Mountain, we take the elevator up to the Water Mountains and visit tower, Pagoda,Caves, the amazing & breathtaking View Point to enjoy other beautiful mountains with names Wood, Earth, Metal and Fire. You will be rewarded by breathtaking city and ocean views, and you will also be able to explore interesting natural caves and visit the holy pagoda After that , we head to Hoi An City. During your guided walking tour around the Hoi An old town, your tour guide will explain the history of the Japanese bridge, a traditional house, a Chinese Assembly Hall, a cultural and historical museum, Next , 20 Minute Boat Ride on Hoai River to see HoiAn at Early Night you will have a chance to go to the night market and see the lovely lanterns that Hoi An is famous for, shop or Have dinner on Your own. Finish & Send you to your hotel or You have freetime and back by yourself

From
~€77
per group
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Where to Stay

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Stays near the venue

Accommodation around Saigon River and waterways throughout Vietnam — sorted by walking distance

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