Festivals in Nha Trang are not only a unique cultural tradition but also a fantastic opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere of this coastal city. Each season brings a distinct festive spirit, ranging from solemn spiritual ceremonies to grand and colorful tourism events.
If you are planning a trip to Nha Trang, don’t miss the chance to experience these exciting and culturally rich festivals.
1. Festivals in Nha Trang During Spring – A Joyful Start to the Year
Spring marks the beginning of a new year and is also the season of festivals rich in national identity. Festivals in Nha Trang during this time often carry wishes for good fortune, peace, and a prosperous fishing season for the coastal community.
1.1. Whale Festival – The Sacred Belief of Coastal Fishermen
- Location: Lang Ong, Nha Trang City, Khanh Hoa Province
- Time: The day of Ong Ly (when a whale passes away) and during the Spring and Autumn worship ceremonies
The Whale Festival, also known as the “Cá Ông” Worship Ceremony, is a sacred ritual for fishermen in Nha Trang. According to local beliefs, “Cá Ông” (the whale) is a guardian deity of the sea, protecting fishermen from storms and rough waters.

During the festival, the procession of “Cá Ông” takes place, followed by a solemn worship ceremony. The event also features traditional folk performances, such as hò bá trạo (chanting sea shanties) and traditional boat races, creating a vibrant and culturally rich atmosphere.
1.2. Cau Ngu Festival – Praying for a Prosperous Fishing Season
- Location: Coastal fishing villages, with the main event at Lang Ong Nam Hai
- Time: Three days and nights in February or March (Lunar Calendar)
The Cau Ngu Festival is an important spiritual event for fishermen in Nha Trang. It is not only a time to pray for a successful fishing season but also an opportunity for the community to come together and celebrate. The festival features ritual ceremonies, traditional performances, and various folk games, creating a lively and meaningful atmosphere.

1.3. Hung Temple Festival – Honoring National Roots
- Location: Hung Vuong Temple, Ngo Gia Tu Street, Nha Trang City
- Time: March 10 (Lunar Calendar)
Although Nha Trang is not the homeland of the Hung Kings, the city still honors their legacy through this festival. The event is a chance for both locals and visitors to participate in a solemn incense-offering ceremony, paying tribute to the ancestors of the Vietnamese people. The festival also includes cultural performances and traditional art displays, allowing attendees to experience the rich heritage of Vietnam.

1.4. Thap Ba Ponagar Festival – A Celebration of Cham Culture
- Location: Thap Ba Ponagar, Vinh Phuoc Ward, Nha Trang City
- Time: March 20 – 23 (Lunar Calendar)
This is the largest festival of the Cham people in Nha Trang, held to honor the goddess Thien Y Ana, who is believed to have introduced agricultural civilization to the Cham people.
Visitors to this festival can not only witness sacred rituals but also enjoy mystical Cham dance performances and participate in various traditional folk activities.

After attending the Thap Ba Ponagar Festival, you can explore more of Nha Trang by joining a city tour, visiting key landmarks such as Thap Ba Ponagar, Long Son Pagoda, Stone Church, and Hon Chong. To complete the experience, a relaxing hot mineral mud bath is highly recommended.
You can read more: Legend of Ponagar Tower Nha Trang
2. Festivals in Nha Trang During Summer – Energetic and Exciting
Summer is the busiest tourist season in Nha Trang, attracting large numbers of visitors thanks to its crystal-clear beaches and vibrant festivals.
2.1. Nha Trang Sea Festival – A Grand Tourism Event
- Location: Nha Trang City
- Time: Held every two years during summer
The Nha Trang Sea Festival is one of the biggest events in the city, featuring a wide range of activities such as street parades, art performances, beach sports competitions, and tourism fairs. This festival is a fantastic opportunity for visitors to experience the lively and festive spirit of Nha Trang.

2.2. Yen Sao Festival – Honoring Nha Trang’s Famous Delicacy
- Location: Hon Noi Island (Yen Island)
- Time: May 10 (Lunar Calendar)
Khanh Hoa’s bird’s nest has long been renowned for its high quality, often referred to as the “white gold” of this coastal region. The Yen Sao Festival provides visitors with an opportunity to learn about the traditional bird’s nest harvesting industry, explore product exhibitions, and taste various dishes made from bird’s nest.

You can combine attending the Yen Sao Festival with a Three-Island Tour in Nha Trang, visiting Coral Bay, Fishing Village, and Bai Tranh Beach. A snorkeling experience to admire the vibrant coral reefs is highly recommended.

Nha Trang city 1 day tour
- Visit the famous church with Gothic architecture blended with Eastern design.
- Explore an ancient Cham structure built in 817, a symbol of the cultural and spiritual heritage of the Land of Agarwood.
- Visit the largest pagoda in Nha Trang, known for the largest outdoor White Buddha statue in the city.
- Enjoy Bird’s Nest Tea, a delicacy once reserved for royalty.
- Explore the process of raising and processing bird’s nests, where you can purchase bird’s nest products as gifts.
- Relax with a full-body massage with water jets, soak in communal baths, and enjoy services like swimming pools, waterfalls, and hydrotherapy (self-pay).
When visiting Nha Trang, a city tour is an exciting experience. Each destination has its unique charm. With Let’s Fly Travel’s Nha Trang City Tour, along with sightseeing, a wide range of services will meet all your needs. Let’s Fly Travel specializes in organizing tours in Nha Trang City, ensuring customer satisfaction.
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3. Festivals in Nha Trang During Autumn – A Colorful and Festive Season
Mid-Autumn Festival – A Vibrant Full Moon Celebration
- Location: Nha Trang City
- Time: August 14 – 15 (Lunar Calendar)
The Mid-Autumn Festival in Nha Trang is especially lively, featuring lion dance performances, star lantern processions, and traditional feasts. The streets come alive with glowing lanterns and festive lion dances, creating a magical and colorful atmosphere for both locals and visitors.
4. Year-End Festivals in Nha Trang – A Spectacular New Year’s Celebration
Countdown Event – A Night to Remember
- Location: 2/4 Square, Tran Phu Street
- Time: Night of December 31 (Annually)
The New Year’s Eve Countdown Festival is one of the most exciting events in Nha Trang. It features electrifying music performances and a dazzling fireworks display over the sea, making it a perfect way to welcome the new year in a vibrant and unforgettable setting.

See more: What’s Exciting About a 3-Day-2-Night Trip to Nha Trang?
Conclusion
Festivals in Nha Trang are not only rich in cultural value but also offer visitors a chance to experience the city’s unique blend of modern vibrancy and deep-rooted traditions.
If you are planning a trip to Nha Trang, consider combining festival experiences with exciting tours such as a Nha Trang City Tour or a Three-Island Tour to make your journey truly unforgettable.