What is the Bac Ha Horse Racing Festival?
The Bac Ha Horse Racing Festival is a traditional event where ethnic minority farmers compete on unsaddled horses—no stirrups, no saddles, just skill and balance. These aren’t professional jockeys or racehorses, but everyday people and their working horses.
Once an informal challenge between locals after a hard day’s work, the race is now a central part of Bac Ha’s biggest cultural celebration. It’s been officially recognized as a national intangible heritage and attracts large local crowds and curious travelers. Beyond the race itself, rituals, parades, and horse dancing add cultural depth to the experience.
When and where is the horse racing festival held?
When?
The Bac Ha Horse Racing Festival is usually held in early June, as part of the larger Bac Ha White Plateau Festival. The event spans two main stages: a qualifying round in the first days of June and a final round about a week later. While the general timing is consistent each year, specific dates are set by the local government and may vary. If you’re planning a visit, it’s best to check official announcements for the confirmed schedule.
Where?
The festival takes place in Bac Ha Town, located in Lao Cai Province in northern Vietnam. The race is held at Bac Ha Stadium, a central outdoor arena in the heart of town. While Bac Ha is most famous for its vibrant Sunday market, it also offers scenic mountain views, ethnic minority culture, and a peaceful highland atmosphere.
Bac Ha Stadium
Bac Ha Stadium is a medium-sized outdoor venue in the center of town, used for sports matches, festivals, and public gatherings. Surrounded by misty hills, it offers a scenic backdrop—but there’s little shade, so it’s wise to bring a hat or umbrella. The layout includes simple stands (without cover), a dirt racetrack, and vendor areas set up during events.
On race day, the stadium comes alive with cheering crowds, local food stalls, and festive music. Tickets are usually sold directly at the gate for around 40,000–50,000 VND, but the venue can fill up quickly—especially for the final round.
Highlights and what you’ll see at Bac Ha Horse Racing Festival
The Bac Ha Horse Racing Festival features thrilling races where ethnic minority farmers ride unsaddled horses, steering only with simple reins—no stirrups or harnesses involved. These aren’t professionals, but everyday locals on their working horses.
The event begins with group qualifying races, followed by a high-energy final round with the top riders. Opening rituals and a horse parade highlight the community’s deep cultural connection to these animals.
Around the stadium, you might also catch traditional performances or local markets, depending on the year. It’s a vibrant, colorful scene—ideal for photographers or anyone seeking an authentic, offbeat experience in northern Vietnam.
Getting to Bac Ha
Bac Ha is located in Lao Cai Province in northern Vietnam, roughly 100 km from Sapa. While remote, it’s accessible by a few different routes:
Direct Bus from Hanoi
The journey takes about 5.5–6 hours. There are limited departures, so check the schedule in advance. This is a good option if you plan to stay overnight in Bac Ha.
See our guide: From Hanoi to Bac Ha
Train to Lao Cai + Car to Bac Ha
Take an overnight train from Hanoi to Lao Cai (see our guide to Lao Cai Railway Station).
From Lao Cai, it’s about a 2-hour drive or bus ride to Bac Ha.
From Sapa
The most popular option—many travelers base themselves in Sapa and visit Bac Ha as a day trip.
This is especially common for the Sunday market, but it’s also a great option during festival days. You can book a tour, arrange a private car, or hire a local driver.
Need a driver for the festival or a northern road trip?
We can arrange a private car with driver to take you to Bac Ha—whether you’re coming from Hanoi, Sapa, or planning a full northern Vietnam journey. Comfortable, flexible, and reliable transport for festival visits or multi-day tours.
Tips for planning your visit
The Bac Ha Horse Racing Festival is a unique local event—but also a busy one. A little preparation goes a long way to make your visit smoother and more enjoyable.
Confirm the date
Always double-check the official festival schedule—it shifts slightly each year. Don’t assume it fits your travel plans unless the dates are clearly announced.
Book accommodation early
Bac Ha is small, with limited hotel availability. Most are basic guesthouses, and the better options fill up quickly during festival week. Staying in Bac Ha the night before the final race is the best way to avoid early morning travel.
What to bring
There’s little shade in the stadium—bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Also pack drinking water, snacks, and some cash (few places take cards). Don’t forget your camera or phone—the scenes are worth photographing.
Don’t expect western facilities
This is a rural Vietnamese festival. Facilities are basic, crowd control is loose, and announcements are in Vietnamese. Things might feel unorganized, but that’s part of the charm—just go with the flow.
