The Khau Vai Love Market is one of the most distinctive cultural events of the northern highlands, associated with local stories of love, reunion and community traditions.

In 2026, the festival was held in Khau Vai, bringing together traditional culture, food, folk activities and the atmosphere of a highland market.

When Was the Khau Vai Love Market 2026?

The 2026 Khau Vai Love Market Festival took place on May 12–13, 2026, corresponding to the 26th–27th days of the third lunar month.

The opening ceremony was held on the evening of May 12 at the Stone Maze area in Khau Vai.

The 2026 theme was “Khau Vai – The Love Market Keeps Calling”.

What Makes the Khau Vai Love Market Special?

Unlike an ordinary market, the Khau Vai Love Market is strongly connected to community gatherings, relationships and local cultural traditions.

The market has long been associated with stories of love, loyalty and reunion among highland communities. Traditionally, it is held on the 27th day of the third lunar month.

1. Highland Cultural Atmosphere

During the festival, Khau Vai becomes a lively cultural gathering featuring the traditions of local highland communities.

Visitors can experience traditional clothing, performances, community activities and aspects of everyday local culture.

2. Incense Offering at Ong and Ba Shrines

One of the cultural activities is the incense offering at the Ong and Ba shrines.

The ritual is connected to the love story traditionally associated with Khau Vai and helps visitors understand the cultural origins of the festival.

3. Traditional Costume Performances

Traditional costume performances add color and cultural identity to the festival.

They also offer visitors an opportunity to learn more about local patterns, clothing styles and highland traditions.

4. Folk Games & Cultural Activities

The 2026 festival featured a variety of cultural and sporting activities.

• Goat fighting competitions
• Traditional water-carrying competitions
• Sticky rice cake pounding
• Traditional costume performances
• Highland folk sports
• Cultural and musical performances

5. Discover Local Highland Food

The festival is also a good opportunity to explore local highland cuisine.

Visitors may find traditional dishes, regional products and foods commonly served at highland markets.

6. Khau Vai Stone Maze

The Khau Vai Stone Maze is closely associated with festival activities.

Its distinctive rocky landscape offers another sightseeing and photography experience within the Dong Van Karst Plateau region.

7. Combining Khau Vai with the Ha Giang Loop

Khau Vai can be included in an itinerary around Meo Vac and the Dong Van Karst Plateau.

Nearby experiences can include:

• Ma Pi Leng Pass
• Nho Que River
• Tu San Canyon
• Meo Vac
• Dong Van Old Quarter
• Lung Cu

Suggested 3-Day Itinerary

• Day 1: Quan Ba – Yen Minh – Dong Van
• Day 2: Dong Van – Ma Pi Leng – Meo Vac – Khau Vai
• Day 3: Khau Vai – Nho Que River – Meo Vac – return journey

During the festival period, allow additional time in Khau Vai to experience cultural activities rather than treating it only as a short sightseeing stop.

Tips for Visiting the Khau Vai Love Market

• Book accommodation early during the festival period
• Arrive early to reduce traffic and parking difficulties
• Carry some cash for small purchases
• Wear comfortable footwear
• Respect local cultural activities and community life
• Ask permission before taking close-up portraits
• Check weather and road conditions before traveling

FAQ – Khau Vai Love Market