Flower Shops Overflowing: What is Vietnamese Women's Day on October 20 All About?
If you notice flower shops in Vietnam suddenly bustling with activity, it doesn’t necessarily mean there’s a mass proposal or that a rose wholesaler is having a sale. Hold on, it’s actually the arrival of “Vietnamese Women’s Day” on October 20. Yes, Vietnam has its own Women’s Day, distinct from International Women’s Day on March 8, and it’s celebrated with such enthusiasm that you might mistake it for a second Valentine’s Day.
Let’s get straight to the point: October 20 is officially known as “Ngày Phụ nữ Việt Nam” (Vietnamese Women’s Day). This day traces its origins back to October 20, 1930, when the “Vietnamese Women’s Anti-Imperialist Association” was established, which later evolved into today’s “Vietnamese Women’s Union” (Hội Liên hiệp Phụ nữ Việt Nam).
As a result, this day holds significant historical and local importance in Vietnamese society. While it’s not a public holiday, workplaces, schools, and families celebrate it with a sense of ceremony. For more information, check out the official website of the Vietnamese Women’s Union.
This article aims to quickly inform you about three key things: why Vietnam has its own Women’s Day, how the locals celebrate it, and how you, as a foreigner (or someone in a relationship with a Vietnamese), can participate without feeling awkward. By the end, you’ll know whether to order flowers in advance and how to remedy the situation if you forget—within 15 minutes!
Two Women’s Days in a Year? The Major Differences Between March 8 and October 20
Many friends from Taiwan often wonder: why does Vietnam celebrate Women’s Day on October 20? The answer lies in Vietnam’s appreciation for two layers of honoring women.
March 8 is International Women’s Day, focusing on women’s rights and gender equality globally; October 20, on the other hand, emphasizes the contributions of local women in society, family, and history, carrying a strong sense of local identity. Both days involve giving flowers, dining out, and sending well wishes, but the “Vietnamese flavor” on October 20 is much more pronounced, with numerous school and community activities taking place. (For more background, see DDEC.)
In practice, you’ll notice both days are lively, but on the evening of October 20, you’ll see more people carrying flowers, and workplace and community events are often scheduled for this day. Don’t try to save a few bucks by buying flowers last minute; prices and delivery demand may spike, and popular restaurants will be fully booked. (For reference, see Hanoi Free Private Tour Guide.)
A Survival Guide for Vietnamese Men: Essential Items for Celebrating October 20 at Work, School, and Home
Imagine a typical Vietnamese man’s schedule on October 20: starting the morning by placing flowers and a card at the office, having lunch with female colleagues, rushing to the flower shop in the evening, and finally reserving a restaurant or preparing a little surprise at home. It’s not a rule, but rather an unspoken understanding; it doesn’t have to be extravagant, but it usually conveys heartfelt sentiments.
At the Office: Pooling Together for Flowers and Treats, Turning the Meeting Room into a Mini Celebration
A common scenario: male colleagues often “behave” by visiting the flower market a week in advance, then placing flowers on their female colleagues’ desks early on the day itself; departments might prepare small treats or gift bags, and supervisors may say a few words of thanks while everyone takes photos to commemorate the occasion. If you’re a new foreign colleague, bringing a box of Taiwanese snacks or a small card will be seen as very thoughtful.
Remember, it’s the thought that counts; it doesn’t have to be luxurious.
At School: Male Students Giving Small Bouquets to Teachers and Female Classmates
University clubs and classes love to hold activities on October 20. It’s common for male students to chip in to buy flowers for their female classmates or teachers, often accompanied by handwritten cards. If you’re an exchange student, just follow along with your class’s activities; don’t rush to buy 99 roses, as that might create an awkward situation.
At Home or with a Partner: A Safe Combination of Flowers, a Small Gift, and a Meal
In most cases, it’s flowers (roses and lilies are quite common) plus a small gift (chocolates, perfume, skincare products, jewelry, or something she likes) along with a meal. Not all Vietnamese women are into the romantic clichés, but they appreciate seeing that you’ve made an effort.
Don’t try to save a few bucks by waiting until the last minute to book a restaurant; the queues and price hikes for holiday dinner specials can turn any surprise into a test of patience.
What to Expect at Malls, Restaurants, and Flower Shops?
In the days leading up to and following October 20, malls often offer exclusive discounts or gifts for women (like free flowers or gifts with purchases), restaurants promote “Ladies Night” or couple’s specials, and popular dining spots are usually fully booked; flower shops and online flower delivery services experience a surge in demand, with delivery personnel bustling everywhere.
In terms of pricing, fresh flowers are typically more expensive the day before and on the day itself compared to regular days, and popular varieties can sell out quickly. Be sure to place your orders in advance and confirm delivery times and prices. (Market observation: Reference link.)
How to Choose Gifts for Vietnamese Women’s Day? Three Safe Options
- Practical Gifts: Restocking her favorite skincare products, small-sized niche perfumes, or exquisite chocolate or coffee gift boxes. The key is that “she will find it useful.”
- Ceremonial Gifts: A bouquet of flowers plus a handwritten card and a dinner reservation. Keep the card simple; three heartfelt sentences are enough.
- Shared Memories: Arrange to visit an exhibition, take a craft class, or create a small photo album. Many Vietnamese women enjoy documenting their lives.
A gentle reminder: Different families and regions have varying customs; some prefer a low-key celebration at home, while others enjoy lively gatherings. Observe first before taking action to avoid your well-intentioned romantic gesture becoming a burden.
If You Forget October 20, What Happens? (A Humorous Yet Practical Emergency Kit)
At 7:30 PM, a message pops up: “Are you busy today?” Your heart sinks. Here are the emergency steps:
- First, sincerely apologize without making excuses.
- Immediately book a celebration for the next day and send a screenshot of your reservation.
- Tonight, present a small token of appreciation: a small bouquet from a nearby flower shop or some sweets will do.
- Set a reminder for next year, ideally vibrating three days in advance.
Often, it’s not about the value of the gift but whether you remembered this day.
A Practical Guide for Foreign Travelers and Business Visitors: How to Celebrate on October 20 Without a Hitch
You might find yourself in Vietnam for travel or business during October 20. Here are some ways to participate without feeling awkward.
Avoiding Pitfalls in Itinerary and Transportation
- Restaurants and Bars: Popular restaurants are usually fully booked on this night, so please make reservations 3–7 days in advance. If you decide last minute, at least call to confirm the last seating time and whether they have special holiday menus.
- Traffic Timing: Expect increased traffic flow after work until the evening (commonly from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM), which may lead to longer wait times for rides. Allow for flexibility when moving between districts.
- Flower Viewing Experience: Visit the Quảng Bá flower market in Hanoi or the Hồ Thị Kỷ flower market in Ho Chi Minh City in the early morning for a festive atmosphere, but be mindful of your personal belongings and respectful when taking photos.
- Buying Flowers Last Minute: Always ask for prices first before deciding; if you’re unfamiliar with local prices, choose a shop or platform with clear pricing.
A Phrase in Vietnamese to Help You Blend In
The most useful phrase: Chúc mừng ngày Phụ nữ Việt Nam 20/10! (Happy Vietnamese Women’s Day!)
- Say it to colleagues or friends: Chúc chị/em 20/10 vui vẻ! (Wishing you a happy October 20!)
- To respond with thanks: Cảm ơn! (Thank you!)
Just keep your tone natural; no need for a speech. These phrases are safe and useful in workplaces, shops, and among friends.
Small Courtesies in the Workplace and Social Settings
In company settings, consider preparing shared snacks or small cards, avoiding overly personal or expensive gifts (like branded perfumes) that might create pressure or misunderstandings. When visiting clients, bringing a box of small treats and writing “Happy October 20” on a message or business card is also appropriate.
When dining out, if you see the establishment giving out small flowers or hosting events, simply smile and thank them, respecting the order for taking photos and lining up.
When You Need Local Assistance
Coordinating reservations and transportation during the holiday can be a bit challenging for travelers unfamiliar with the language. If you plan to arrange a confession, surprise dinner, or want to experience a “flower market + night view” itinerary, consider getting help from a local Chinese-speaking guide for communication and booking, which can save you from comparing prices and potential pitfalls.
For arranging night tours in Ho Chi Minh City or hiring a car to explore food and landmarks, check out VietGo’s Ho Chi Minh City Sightseeing and Food Tour; if you need help with Chinese restaurant reservations, translations, or customized surprises, you can inquire about Vietnamese Chinese-speaking tour guides and personal assistance services. This is ideal for first-time visitors to Vietnam or those with important anniversaries.
A Quick Guide to Vietnamese Women’s Day on October 20: Key Points to Remember in 3 Minutes
- What is this day: October 20 is “Vietnamese Women’s Day” (Ngày Phụ nữ Việt Nam), stemming from the establishment of Vietnamese women’s organizations on October 20, 1930, with a focus on local and historical significance (see: Vietnamese Women’s Union).
- The difference from March 8: March 8 is International Women’s Day globally; October 20 is a local Vietnamese holiday, both days are celebrated grandly (see: DDEC).
- Importance: It’s not a public holiday, but workplaces, schools, and families celebrate it with a sense of ceremony; flower shops are overwhelmed, restaurants are fully booked, and malls offer gifts and discounts for women (see: reference).
- Safe gift options for Vietnamese Women’s Day: Flowers + card + a meal; or practical small gifts (skincare, perfume, sweets); or shared experiences (exhibitions, craft classes).
- Reminders for the day: Make restaurant reservations 3–7 days in advance; expect heavy traffic during peak hours; ask for prices before buying flowers and confirm delivery times.
- Vietnamese greeting: Saying “Chúc mừng ngày Phụ nữ Việt Nam 20/10!” (Happy Vietnamese Women’s Day) is very appropriate.
- How foreigners can participate: Bring shared snacks and small cards to the workplace, dine with friends, visit flower markets to enjoy the festive atmosphere, and respect photo and public etiquette.
- If you really forget: Apologize first, immediately book a celebration for the next day, present a small token of appreciation tonight, and set a reminder for next year.
Final encouragement: You don’t need to turn October 20 into a grand project. The key is to make the Vietnamese women in your life—family, partners, colleagues, and friends—feel seen and appreciated on this day. With your thoughtfulness, it will be a wonderful celebration.
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