If you have been wondering why today almost feels like a public holiday, why the cafés are unusually full, and why flower shops seem to be operating at the logistical level of an international airport, there is a good reason. October 20 is Vietnamese Women’s Day, a day dedicated to celebrating the women who shape the country’s families, workplaces and communities.
Across Vietnam, flowers are changing hands, restaurants are filling up, and cafés are turning into elaborate photo studios. Floral arches, carefully arranged backdrops and decorative chairs provide the perfect setting for photographs. Friends meet for coffee, colleagues exchange gifts, and families make plans for dinner. For a day when most people still have to go to work, there is a remarkable amount of celebrating going on.
But October 20 is more than an excuse to buy flowers. It has a history that reaches back almost a century.
A day rooted in history
Vietnamese Women’s Day, or Ngày Phụ nữ Việt Nam, dates back to October 20, 1930, when the Vietnam Women’s Anti-Imperialist Association was established. It marked an important step in the organised participation of women in the country’s political and social life, and became part of the history of today’s Vietnam Women’s Union.
The occasion developed against the backdrop of French colonial rule, when women participated in movements for national independence while continuing to shoulder responsibilities in their families and communities. Their contributions became an important part of Vietnam’s national story.
The country’s history offers even earlier examples of women who challenged the status quo. In AD 40, the Trưng Sisters, Trưng Trắc and Trưng Nhị, led a rebellion against Chinese rule. Although their uprising was eventually defeated, they became enduring national heroines. Their names live on in streets, schools, temples and monuments throughout Vietnam.
Today, October 20 recognises the achievements and contributions of Vietnamese women, while providing an opportunity for families, colleagues and friends to express their appreciation.
Two Women’s Days, two traditions
Vietnam actually celebrates Women’s Day twice a year, and the distinction is worth knowing.
March 8 is International Women’s Day, observed around the world. Its roots lie in the international women’s movement and campaigns for better working conditions, political participation and equal rights. Today, it provides an opportunity to reflect on progress towards gender equality and the challenges that remain.
October 20 is Vietnamese Women’s Day, a specifically Vietnamese occasion connected to the country’s history and the establishment of its women’s organisation. It places particular emphasis on recognising Vietnamese women’s contributions to their families, workplaces and national life.
The two celebrations share a common purpose, but their historical backgrounds differ. International Women’s Day emerged from an international movement for women’s rights, while October 20 has its roots in Vietnam’s own political and social history.
Neither date is a statutory public holiday, so offices, schools and most businesses generally continue operating. Yet both can transform the atmosphere of an ordinary working day.
Flowers, photographs and a little appreciation
In the days surrounding October 20, flower shops become especially busy, with bouquets of roses, lilies and other blooms prepared for delivery. Businesses may organise celebrations for female employees, while schools and families find their own ways to mark the occasion.
Restaurants and cafés are popular meeting places, and special promotions appear across the city. The elaborate photo settings are part of the fun: a coffee outing can become an opportunity to gather friends, dress up and capture a few memorable pictures.
The celebrations are not limited to romantic partners. Mothers, grandmothers, daughters, sisters, teachers, friends and colleagues all have a place in the day. A bouquet is a familiar gesture, but a shared meal, a thoughtful message or simply taking time to show appreciation can be just as meaningful.
Behind the flowers and photographs lies a broader idea: recognising the work, achievements and everyday contributions of women, much of which goes unnoticed during the rest of the year.
Chúc mừng Ngày Phụ nữ Việt Nam!
So, if October 20 has made Ho Chi Minh City feel a little more festive than usual, now you know why. The flowers, crowded cafés and carefully arranged photo backdrops are all part of a celebration with deep roots in Vietnamese history.
To all the women in Vietnam, we wish you a very happy Vietnamese Women’s Day!
May the day bring you joy, appreciation, good company and plenty of reasons to smile for the camera. And may the recognition you receive today continue throughout the year.
