The Mid-Autumn Festival 2025, taking place on Monday, October 6, 2025 (15th day of the 8th Lunar Month), is one of the most dazzling and culturally rich celebrations of the year. In Vietnam, it is not only a festival for children but also a time for families to reunite, enjoy the beauty of the full moon, and embrace traditional customs.
For the international community in Ho Chi Minh City, Mid-Autumn Festival is a wonderful opportunity for parents and children to share unforgettable moments right in the heart of the city.
As your trusted companion in Vietnam, Esearch is delighted to present Part 1 of the Mid-Autumn Festival 2025 Family Guide in HCMC, focusing on both traditional and modern destinations where you and your children can fully immerse yourselves in the festive spirit.
I. DISCOVERING TRADITIONAL MID-AUTUMN SPACES WITH YOUR CHILDREN
To let your children experience the soul of the festival, you can’t miss these cultural landmarks that have stood the test of time.
1.1 Lương Nhữ Học Lantern Street (Former District 5) – A Fairyland of Lights
Located in Saigon’s Chinatown (Chợ Lớn), the heart of the Chinese-Vietnamese community, the area transforms into a “kingdom of lights” every 8th lunar month. The highlight is Lương Nhữ Học Street and surrounding lanes, which become the city’s largest lantern market.
For kids: This truly feels like a wonderland. Children will be amazed by thousands of handmade lanterns in every shape and color—from traditional star and carp lanterns to modern cartoon characters. Let them choose their favorite one!
Esearch family tips:
Best time to visit: Go in the evening (after 7:00 PM) to see the street at its most dazzling.
Safety note: Weekends are very crowded. For families with young kids, weekdays are better. Keep your children close and watch your personal belongings.
1.2 Lion and Dragon Dance Performances – Dynamic & Exciting
The sound of pounding drums marks the arrival of Mid-Autumn Festival.
For kids: Children will be captivated by the high-energy, acrobatic performances of lion and dragon dance troupes. This is one of the most memorable activities of the season.
Esearch family tips: You can easily catch these shows at shopping malls or along main streets in former District 1 and District 5.
II. ENJOYING THE FESTIVAL IN MODERN, FAMILY-FRIENDLY VENUES
If you prefer safe, comfortable spaces with diverse activities, these modern venues are ideal.
2.1 Nguyễn Huệ Walking Street (Former District 1)
As the city’s central boulevard, Nguyễn Huệ Walking Street is beautifully decorated during every major festival.
For kids: With its wide, open space, children can run and play freely. Elaborate Mid-Autumn displays featuring the Moon Lady (Chị Hằng) and Moon Boy (Chú Cuội) make for perfect family photo backdrops.
Esearch family tips: Ideal for a family stroll in the evening, with many restaurants and cafés nearby.
2.2 Major Shopping Malls
Popular malls such as Saigon Centre, Vincom Center (former District 1), Estella Place (former District 2), and Crescent Mall (former District 7) are top destinations for families with young kids.
For kids: Malls often host free weekend workshops like lantern-making, mask-painting, and figurine coloring. These “all-in-one” venues provide safe, air-conditioned spaces for play and learning.
Esearch family tips: Follow mall Facebook pages for updated schedules and bring your children to join in.
2.3 Starlight Bridge – Crescent Lake (Former District 7)
In Phú Mỹ Hưng Urban Area, the Starlight Bridge and Crescent Lake offer a more spacious and less crowded alternative to downtown.
For kids: The LED-lit bridge sparkles like a sky full of stars—a magical sight for children. Families can stroll, enjoy the cool air, and watch the moon in a safe, serene setting.
Esearch family tips: Combine your visit with dinner at one of the family restaurants around Crescent Mall.
CONCLUSION
Mid-Autumn Festival 2025 in Ho Chi Minh City offers a fascinating blend of tradition and modernity—from lantern streets and lion dances to Nguyễn Huệ Walking Street and the Starlight Bridge. It promises to be an emotional and enriching journey for the whole family.
To make the celebration even more fulfilling, beyond sightseeing and strolling, there are also hands-on craft workshops and unique culinary experiences you won’t want to miss.
Join Esearch in Part 2 of our guide, where we introduce creative workshops and the delightful flavors of mooncakes—designed especially for international families.
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Source: Compiled by Esearch
