The Mid-Autumn Festival – the season of the full moon and family reunion – is also the time when Ho Chi Minh City becomes more dazzling than ever. Streets, malls, and neighborhoods are lit up with vibrant lanterns, creating magical backdrops that everyone wants to capture. If you’re still wondering where to go this Mid-Autumn, where to take Instagram-worthy lantern photos with your loved ones, here are the Top 5 lantern check-in spots in Ho Chi Minh City for Mid-Autumn 2025 you shouldn’t miss.
AEON MALL Tan Phu Celadon is always a “must-visit” destination during festive seasons. This year, the mall transforms into a lantern village with colorful arches, giant lantern displays, and nostalgic setups that recreate traditional Mid-Autumn vibes. The best part? It’s a one-stop destination – you can take stunning photos, shop, dine, and join fun family-friendly activities, making it perfect for both couples and families with kids.
Luong Nhu Hoc Street in District 5 is a legendary Mid-Autumn spot in Saigon. With hundreds of lantern shops lining the street, the whole area glows with vibrant colors and festive energy. It’s the perfect place to capture traditional Vietnamese Mid-Autumn vibes, whether you’re taking nostalgic photos with family, fun shots with friends, or romantic lantern-lit pictures as a couple.
For those who love modern, artistic decorations, Crescent Mall in District 7 is a go-to choice. Every year, the mall sets up unique themes: from a lantern-lit walkway to giant moon installations that combine tradition with contemporary style. Plus, the nearby Crescent Lake and Starlight Bridge offer even more breathtaking backgrounds for a full night of photo-taking and strolling.
Van Hanh Mall is another hotspot that shines every Mid-Autumn with its vibrant lantern setups. Beyond check-in corners, the mall often hosts lion dances, lantern-making workshops, and painting activities, creating a true festive vibe for all ages. Located in the city center, it’s a convenient and fun option for families and groups of friends.
SC VivoCity is a favorite for families with children. Its wide, open spaces and festive lantern decorations provide the perfect backdrop for kids to explore and parents to capture memorable moments. The mall also adds a mix of traditional and modern elements, making it both photogenic and kid-friendly.
Best timing: Visit in the early evening when the lanterns are lit, but the sky still has natural light.
Outfit ideas: Try áo dài (Vietnamese traditional dress), pastel dresses, or festive tones like red and yellow to match the vibe.
Angles: Mix close-up lantern shots with wide background views for a dynamic photo collection.
Whether you’re strolling at AEON MALL Tan Phu Celadon, exploring District 5’s Lantern Street, or posing at Crescent Mall, one thing stays the same: Mid-Autumn is about creating memories with loved ones. Lantern check-ins aren’t just for Instagram – they’re moments of joy, togetherness, and celebration. So plan your outing now, and make Mid-Autumn Festival 2025 in Ho Chi Minh City truly magical.