The Whale Festival Da Nang

One of the most important events in the calendars of Vietnamese fishermen, the Whale Festival – or ‘Cau Ngu’ in Vietnamese – takes place each year in the middle of the 3rd lunar month (usually in early April). The occasion is celebrated as a chance for fishermen to thank whales, which are revered as creatures that lend a helping hand to fishermen when they meet stormy waters whilst at sea. The Festival is celebrated amongst Danang locals to bring prosperity to the city and peaceful lives to its fishermen.

Celebrating Whale Festival in Danang

The first round of festival celebrations takes place at home. Local residents place items of significance on a table to begin the peace ceremony. The following morning at dawn, they take part in a water procession, accompanied by musical performers and traditional hat boi (Vietnamese opera) singers. As part of the procession, fishermen will decorate their boats with flowers and lanterns, as well as dancing and praying for the spirit of the whale to protect them at sea. In the evening, there is an official ceremony at the coast, with more offerings and musical performances.

During the festival, all ships and boats moored at the wharf in Danang are beautifully decorated with flowers and lanterns. If you’re seeking out authentic Vietnamese culture, don’t miss the chance to observe this sacred celebration.

Getting around Danang

If you’re not staying in walking proximity of Danang’s coastline, private metered taxis and motorbike taxis will take you straight to the festivities. If you have an adventurous spirit, do as the locals do and hire a cyclo to make your way there.