Vietnamese Women's Day: A Celebration of Women’s Strength and Contributions

Every year on October 20th, Vietnam celebrates Women’s Day (Ngày Phụ Nữ Việt Nam), an occasion dedicated to honoring the achievements, strength, and importance of Vietnamese women in society. This holiday highlights both women’s contributions to the family and the nation while also promoting gender equality.

Unlike International Women’s Day on March 8th, which is recognized worldwide, Vietnamese Women’s Day is a uniquely national celebration rooted in history and tradition, reflecting the cultural values of appreciation and respect for women.

History of Vietnamese Women’s Day

Vietnamese Women’s Day traces its roots back to October 20, 1930, when the Vietnamese Women’s Union was founded. This organization was established to empower women and fight for equality, particularly during a period of colonialism and national resistance movements. The Women’s Union also played a crucial role in supporting independence efforts and promoting education, health, and social welfare for women.

The establishment of Vietnamese Women’s Day honors the efforts of women throughout history who have contributed to the development and protection of the nation, from ancient heroines like Trung Sisters and Lady Trieu to modern-day leaders and activists.

How Vietnamese Women’s Day is Celebrated

Gifting Flowers and Presents
- Similar to Valentine’s Day or International Women’s Day, men give flowers, cards, and gifts to the important women in their lives—whether it’s mothers, wives, sisters, teachers, or colleagues.
- Popular gifts include roses, chocolates, and personalized tokens of appreciation.
Corporate and School Celebrations
- Many companies and schools organize small events to honor female employees or students. These events often involve lunches, speeches, and gifts distributed by management.
Family Gatherings and Special Dinners
- Families take time to celebrate together by preparing special meals, similar to other Vietnamese holidays. On this day, men and children often take over household chores to give women a break from their responsibilities.
Community and Charity Events
- Some communities organize charity events or workshops aimed at promoting women’s health, empowerment, and economic independence. There are also public awareness campaigns focusing on women’s rights and gender equality.

The Role of Women in Vietnamese Society

Vietnamese Women’s Day is not just a time for flowers and gifts—it’s also a reminder of the important role that women have played in Vietnam’s history and continue to play today. Women in Vietnam have traditionally been seen as the backbone of the family, managing both work and domestic responsibilities. In modern Vietnam, they are increasingly recognized for their contributions across various sectors, including business, politics, and education.

Although progress has been made in terms of gender equality, challenges remain, such as the need for greater representation of women in leadership roles and more focus on issues like domestic violence and workplace equality.

Vietnamese Women’s Day vs. International Women’s Day

Both October 20th and March 8th are celebrated in Vietnam, though Vietnamese Women’s Day holds special cultural significance as a local tradition. While International Women’s Day tends to focus more on global issues like gender equality and women’s rights, Vietnamese Women’s Day emphasizes personal appreciation for the women in one’s life and is often celebrated in a more intimate, family-oriented way.

Final Thoughts: A Day of Appreciation and Reflection

Vietnamese Women’s Day is more than just a holiday—it’s an opportunity to reflect on the contributions of women throughout the country’s history and a reminder of the importance of gender equality and empowerment. While flowers and gifts play a role in the celebration, the day is also about recognizing the strength and resilience of Vietnamese women and fostering positive change for future generations.

Whether you’re traveling in Vietnam or learning about its culture from afar, October 20th is a meaningful day to engage with local traditions and appreciate the values of respect and equality.