← Back to Calendar

May

Heating Up

What to Expect

May signals the start of summer. The North and Central regions get hotter, while the South begins its rainy season with short afternoon showers. It's a fantastic time for beach lovers in Central Vietnam.

Festivals & Events (2026)

1
Lễ hội Tháp Bà Ponagar
Cultural

Lễ hội Tháp Bà Ponagar

📍 Nha Trang; Khanh Hoa

Next Occurrence (Lunar → Solar) Wednesday, May 6, 2026 (Lunar: 20/3)

Cham people and locals honor the Goddess Po Nagar (Mother of the Country). Features traditional Cham dance; weaving demonstrations; and flower offerings.

2
Lễ hội Xía Cầu
Cultural

Lễ hội Xía Cầu

📍 Northern Mountains

Next Occurrence (Solar) Friday, May 15, 2026

A traditional festival of the White H'Mong people to give thanks for a safe season and pray for health.

3
Lễ hội Cầu Mưa
Cultural

Lễ hội Cầu Mưa

📍 Northwest & Central Highlands

Next Occurrence (Solar) Friday, May 15, 2026

Rain-praying festivals held by various ethnic groups like the Thai and Bahnar to ask for water for the upcoming planting season.

4
Lễ hội Gióng (Giong Festival)
Historic

Lễ hội Gióng (Giong Festival)

📍 Phu Dong / Soc Son; Hanoi

Next Occurrence (Lunar → Solar) Friday, May 22, 2026 (Lunar: 6/4)

Celebrates Saint Giong; a mythical hero who defeated foreign invaders. UNESCO-recognized for its unique battle reenactments without weapons; symbolizing peace.

5
Lễ Phật Đản (Vesak)
Religious

Lễ Phật Đản (Vesak)

📍 Nationwide

Next Occurrence (Lunar → Solar) Sunday, May 31, 2026 (Lunar: 15/4)

Celebrates the birth; enlightenment; and passing of Buddha. Temples are decorated with lanterns; and flower-decorated float parades move through major cities.