Women’s Day at Work in Vietnam: 8 March and 20 October Ideas

In Vietnam, women are celebrated twice a year: on International Women’s Day, 8 March, and on Vietnamese Women’s Day, 20 October. Both dates are widely marked in offices across Hanoi, with flowers, gifts and small events. For international companies new to Vietnam, these days can come as a surprise. For local companies, the challenge is to do something more thoughtful than the same flowers every year.

Here are ideas and tips for celebrating women in your team in Hanoi in a way that feels genuine and memorable.

Why these days matter in Vietnam

Women’s Day in Vietnam is a moment for colleagues, especially male colleagues, to show appreciation. Employees notice whether the company makes an effort. A small, well-planned celebration builds goodwill far beyond its cost, while forgetting the date can be noticed for a long time.

Plan early

Flowers, venues and popular restaurants in Hanoi are in high demand around 8 March and 20 October. Book two to four weeks ahead, especially for group lunches or evening events. If the date falls on a weekend, plan the celebration for the nearest working day.

Ideas for the office

• A morning welcome with flowers and a personal card for each woman
• Breakfast or a coffee and cake corner prepared by male colleagues
• A short video with messages from colleagues and family members
• A photo booth with fresh flowers
• A small gift chosen with care: a book, a plant, a skincare set or a voucher

Ideas beyond the office

A workshop experience

Flower arranging, pottery, perfume making or a cooking class gives women in the team a relaxed few hours together. Many workshops in Hanoi can host private corporate groups.

A lunch or afternoon tea

A long lunch at a good restaurant or an afternoon tea at a hotel is simple and appreciated, especially when leaders join and say thank you in person.

A wellness half day

Yoga, a spa session or a short wellbeing talk shows care in a practical way.

A city experience

A cyclo tour around Hoan Kiem Lake with a stop for photos, or a private water puppet show, makes the day feel special without a big budget.

Team activity led by male colleagues

Some companies turn the day around: male colleagues organize and host a short program of games, performances or a talent show. It is often funny, heartfelt and remembered for a long time.

Make it inclusive and respectful

• Focus on appreciation of contributions, not only appearance
• Celebrate women at every level, from interns to directors
• Include women working remotely or in other offices with a delivered gift
• Avoid jokes or games that could make anyone uncomfortable
• Use the day to highlight real achievements and career stories

Link it to something lasting

Some companies use 8 March or 20 October to launch a mentoring program, announce a policy that supports working parents or share data on women in leadership. A celebration with a real commitment behind it carries more weight.

A sample program for 20 October

• 08:30 Flowers and cards at the office entrance
• 09:00 Coffee and cake corner
• 12:00 Team lunch with a short speech from leadership
• 15:00 Flower arranging or pottery workshop
• 17:00 Photo moment and small gifts

Frequently asked questions

When is Women’s Day in Vietnam?

Vietnam celebrates International Women’s Day on 8 March and Vietnamese Women’s Day on 20 October.

How do companies in Hanoi celebrate Women’s Day?

Common ideas include flowers and cards, gifts, team lunches, workshops such as flower arranging or pottery, and short programs hosted by male colleagues.

How early should we plan?

Two to four weeks ahead, as flowers, restaurants and workshops are in high demand around both dates.

Can you organize a Women’s Day event for our company?

Yes. We can arrange workshops, lunches, city experiences and short team programs in Hanoi.