Vu Lan Festival 2026 dates and observance guidelines

The 2026 Vu Lan Festival and the lunar seventh month, often referred to in Vietnamese folk tradition as the month of wandering souls, will begin on August 13 and conclude on September 10.

The Vietnam Buddhist Sangha has issued guidance for the 2026 Vu Lan celebrations, emphasizing the traditional values of filial piety and gratitude. In addition to honoring parents and ancestors, the Sangha encourages temples to organize activities to honor national heroes and martyrs.

Recommended activities include candle-lighting ceremonies at cemeteries, visiting Vietnamese Heroic Mothers and wounded veterans, and performing rituals such as sutra chanting. The Sangha also suggests that temples display the national flag to coincide with the Vu Lan season and the upcoming National Day celebrations.