Ninh Binh, widely known as Vietnam’s ancient capital, offers more than just dramatic limestone landscapes and golden paddy fields. In 2026, the province will become a cultural hub, hosting various traditional festivals throughout the year that showcase Vietnam’s agricultural heritage, imperial history, and living spiritual beliefs.
Below are the Top 7 Ninh Binh festivals in 2026 to help you make the most of the area when planning your trip.
1. Doi Son Tich Dien Festival
The Doi Son Tich Dien Festival is a rare royal plowing ritual that dates back to the 10th century. First organized by King Le Dai Hanh, the ceremony honors farmers, promotes respect for agriculture, and symbolizes hopes for favorable weather, fertile fields, and national prosperity. It was officially recognized as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2017.
When: February 17 – 19, 2026
Where: Tien Son Ward, Ninh Binh
Ninh Binh Day Tour | From Hanoi/Ninh Binh
2. Bai Dinh Pagoda Festival
This festival marks the opening of Vietnam’s largest annual Buddhist pilgrimage at Bai Dinh Pagoda. Thousands of monks, devotees, and visitors from around the world gather to participate in prayers, incense offerings, and ceremonial processions within Southeast Asia’s largest pagoda complex.
When: From February 18, 2026 (6th day of the Lunar New Year)
Where: Bai Dinh Pagoda
3. Tam Chuc Pagoda Festival
Set within a vast lake-and-mountain landscape, the Tam Chuc Pagoda Festival highlights centuries-old spiritual practices of northern Vietnam. The event emphasizes harmony between nature, Buddhism, and human life.
When: February 23-24, 2026
Where: Tam Chuc Pagoda
4. Tran Temple Seal Opening Festival
This festival commemorates the heroic Tran Dynasty and the legendary “Dong A spirit.” The sacred seal-opening ceremony is believed to bestow good fortune, career success, and peace upon participants. Each participant tries to acquire a piece of the “seal” as a wish that it will bring luck to the recipient.
The festival has been recognized as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage since 2014.
When: February 26-28, 2026
Where: Tran Temple and Pho Minh Pagoda
5. Tran Thuong Temple Rice Distribution Festival
This festival recreates the military supply distribution practices of the Tran Dynasty. Visitors receive symbolic rice packets, representing gratitude, abundance, and respect for ancestral wisdom in wartime logistics.
When: February 25 – 28, 2026
Where: Tran Thuong Temple
6. Phu Day Festival
The Phu Day Festival is the most important annual celebration of the Mother Goddess Worship (Tam Phu Belief). Recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, the festival features elaborate rituals, spirit possession ceremonies, traditional music, and colorful costumes.
When: April 1- 6, 2026
Where: Phu Day Relic Complex
7. Hoa Lu Ancient Capital Festival
As the largest and most prestigious festival in Ninh Binh, the Hoa Lu Festival honors King Dinh Tien Hoang and celebrates the establishment of Dai Co Viet, Vietnam’s first centralized feudal state. The event includes royal processions, historical reenactments, and large-scale cultural performances.
When: April 7- 9, 2026 (9th–11th day of the 3rd Lunar Month)
Where: Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
