Vu Lan Festival is the 2^nd largest annual traditional festival of Viet Nam after Tet, and it takes place every year on the 15^th day of the 7^th lunar month.  This year, Vu Lan falls on 5 September, and the moon itself will be an extra large ‘supermoon’.

In Vietnamese, it is also called the "Xa toi vong nhan" festival because Vietnamese people, and the many in other countries who share the same festival, believe that on this day the souls of the dead can return to their homes and gather with their familiy members.  It is therefore an occasion for family gatherings as well as a time to express love and gratitude to their ancestors and parents.  This is the reason why Vu Lan Day is also known as Buddhist Mother’s Day in Viet Nam.

In the morning, a lavish tray with various delicious dishes and votives is placed on the ancestral altar.  The householder burns incense and invites their ancestors to return their home to celebrate the festival with their family members.  Then, all the family members gather together and enjoy lunch, with vegetarian food being very popular.

In the evening, a tray filled with food is set out in front of the house.  The householder lights incense and prays for the homeless souls, wishing them rest in peace.

At night, candle-lit lanterns are released onto the river to float with the current.  Vietnamese people believe that, by doing this, their wishes for their parents will come true.  The ceremony creates a wonderful scene with the river sparkling in a holy ambiance.

(Source: Internet/ Da Nang Today)