Discover the Unique Traditions of Mother’s Day in Vietnam

Mother's Day in Vietnam is a unique celebration meant to respect and value moms. Children will be expressing their love, thanksfulness, and respect of their mothers at this day.

Mother's Day deeply culturally and religiously significant Mother's Day in Vietnam, sometimes known as the Vu Lan Festival, also has The celebration of Mother's Day in Vietnam, its background, and the significant customs connected with it are discussed in this paper. You can read more below.

What is Vietnamese Mother's Day?

Mother's Day is also a day to show thanks and love for moms, seen worldwide as well as in Vietnam. Celebrated globally, it honors mothers' enormous contributions to mold people and society. Most countries' Mother's Day happens on the second Sunday in May.

But Mother's Day in Vietnam takes May, not just one day. In 2025, this falls on May 11th.  It goes by the Vu Lan Festival as well. People congregate at this time to honor their living and dead parents as well as to pay respect to their ancestors.

Happy mother day

Inspired by a tale about the Buddhist monk Muc Kien Lien and his mother Thanh De, Vu Lan Festival sprang from Muc Kien Lien found that his mother's past misdeeds caused her to be suffering in the of hungry. 

By his filial piety, he brought food to satisfy her appetite, but her karmic consequences converted food into flames. After devastating, Muc Kien Lien asked Buddha direction on how to save his mother.

Buddha's lessons hold that one person cannot free their parents on their own. It calls for the group efforts of Buddhist monks as well as merit building. On the lunar calendar, the seventh month was considered auspicious as lucky for making offerings and asking monks for help. After, Muc Kien Lien emerged from the world of hungry spirits under Buddha's direction triumphant. 

This occasion resulted in the Vu Lan Festival, which reminds us to show filial piety to parents and respect them for their love and sacrifices.

Read more: All Things You Need to Know About Public Holidays in Vietnam

How is Mother’s Day in Vietnam celebrated?

There are important rites and customs abound at the Vu Lan Festival in Vietnam. Building ceremonial altars at houses and temples to commemorate the Buddha, gods, ancestors, and all living entities is one significant custom. Every altar offers something different. 

Mother and baby

"Bong hong cai ao" (Rose Petal Attachment) is another important custom during the festival whereby participants wear a red rose if their parents are still living or a white rose if their parents have passed away. Everyone will be appreciative and polite toward their parents based on this deed. 

Another crucial custom is releasing flower lanterns into lakes or rivers to offer prayers for the dead and hope for peace and emancipation.

Read more:  Top 10 traditional celebrations in Vietnam

Popular activities during Mother’s Day in Vietnam

1. Family gatherings

Vietnamese culture revolves on family, hence Mother's Day is the ideal occasion for families to gather. Usually at home or a small restaurant, most families plan a special dinner.

Children show their gratitude for their mothers during these events by sincere words or little surprises. Everyone also has an opportunity to relax, catch up, and connect during time away from hectic schedules.

2. Giving gifts

On Mother's Day in Vietnam, gift-giving is a really significant custom. Many children present flowers, often roses or lilies for love and respect to their mothers. In addition, thoughtful presents include skincare goods, jewelry, or even useful items like cookware are becoming rather common.

Giving flowers for mother

3. Cooking for Mom

One of the most heartfelt ways to honor Mother's Day is to make a home-cooked meal. Children and other family members often plan and cook their mother’s favorite dishes, showing their appreciation through effort and care. 

Though traditional Vietnamese cuisines like pho, spring rolls, or braised pork is often made, even a basic breakfast in bed can make mothers feel loved. This act not only makes the house become great but also deepens family ties.

4. Visiting relatives

Mother's Day in Vietnamese tradition honors other mother figures in the family, like aunts or grandmothers, in addition to honoring one's own mother. Many families pay visits to their relatives carrying food or little presents. These visits demonstrate the great respect Vietnamese people have for family ties and the elderly generation, so they are meaningful.

5. Relaxation and pampering

Certain families bring their mothers to spas for cosmetic treatments or a soothing massage. Others might schedule a laid-back outing, like a quick visit to the countryside, a stroll to a flower garden, or even go a pinic. Let mothers take a break.

6. Writing messages and letters

One easy but very emotional custom is writing a sincere letter or greeting to your mother. Young or older, children show their love and thanks for words, often they share how much they value their mother's sacrifices and care.

Writing messages and letters for mom

If you are visiting Vietnam during this unique holiday, it is a fantastic chance to experience the warmth and family-oriented traditions.

Having dependable transportation can help you to make your trip even more fun whether your interests are in exploring vibrant in the countryside, energetic cities, or just enjoy the festive atmosphere. If you intend to rent a car in Vietnam, get in touch Vietnam Budget Car Rental for reasonably priced and handy trip choices to enable easy exploration of Vietnam.