Crowds gather at Hanoi temples, pagodas for First Full Moon Festival prayers

For generations, the first full moon day of the Lunar New Year (the 15th day of the first lunar month) has been considered a major spiritual occasion for many Vietnamese people, as it is believed to mark the first radiant full moon of the new year, symbolising purity, renewal and the gentle warmth of early spring.

crowds gather at hanoi temples, pagodas for first full moon festival prayers picture 2

By 9 a.m. on March 3 (the 15th day of the first lunar month), large numbers of residents and visitors arrive at Tran Quoc Pagoda and Tay Ho Temple to observe the Full Moon Festival, VOV.VN has learned.

crowds gather at hanoi temples, pagodas for first full moon festival prayers picture 3

Thick spirals of incense smoke rise continuously from the altars, blending with the resonant sound of temple bells, creating an atmosphere both solemn and serene.

crowds gather at hanoi temples, pagodas for first full moon festival prayers picture 4

In recent days, Tay Ho has once again become a familiar spiritual gathering place for large numbers of residents and visitors. For many, visiting temples at the beginning of spring is not only a cherished cultural tradition but also a way to send heartfelt wishes for peace, smooth endeavours and good fortune in the months ahead.

crowds gather at hanoi temples, pagodas for first full moon festival prayers picture 5

“My family visits the temple every year on the first full moon,” says Thu Huong, 52, a Hanoi resident. “Although it is crowded, everyone remains respectful. I hope for a peaceful new year, smooth work, and good progress in my children’s studies.”

crowds gather at hanoi temples, pagodas for first full moon festival prayers picture 6

Many worshippers carried carefully arrange trays of offerings, and not a few are seen lifting the trays onto their heads while praying - a gesture of deep reverence and sincerity as they made their wishes before the altar.

crowds gather at hanoi temples, pagodas for first full moon festival prayers picture 7

After completing their prayers, many families purchased birds for release directly at Tay Ho Temple as part of the traditional ritual of life release, a practice symbolising compassion and wishes for good fortune.

crowds gather at hanoi temples, pagodas for first full moon festival prayers picture 8

The designated area for burning votive offerings at the temple is also operating at full capacity during peak hours, prompting temple staff to regularly clear away excess ashes to ensure that worshippers could carry out the practice safely and conveniently.

crowds gather at hanoi temples, pagodas for first full moon festival prayers picture 9

As noon approaches, the flow of worshippers steadily intensified, with streams of people continuing to make their way toward the worship site. Outside the compound, security and traffic control forces work continuously to direct vehicles and manage the crowds, helping to prevent congestion and ensure public safety during the peak hours.