In Vietnam, flowers are the clearest language of the heart. Twice a year especially — International Women’s Day (March 8) and Vietnamese Women’s Day (October 20) — the streets of Ho Chi Minh City turn into a sea of flowers. Some say more flowers sell on these days than on Valentine’s. This guide brings together the meaning and origin of both holidays, the best flowers by recipient, what each bloom means, today’s gift trends, and how to prepare without regret.
Vietnam’s two women’s days — March 8 and October 20
- March 8, International Women’s Day (Quốc tế Phụ nữ) — an international day marked around the world.
- October 20, Vietnamese Women’s Day (Ngày Phụ nữ Việt Nam) — Vietnam’s own special day, commemorating the 1930 founding of the Vietnam Women’s Union.
Though not an official day off, companies, schools, and offices hold events, and men give flowers to wives, partners, mothers, teachers, and female colleagues. Both days are a warm way to express gratitude and love, and in Vietnam October 20 is felt to be a touch more special.
The roots — the Trưng Sisters and the Women’s Union
Vietnam’s deep regard for women’s day has a long history. October 20 commemorates the 1930 founding of the Vietnam Women’s Union (Hội Liên hiệp Phụ nữ Việt Nam) amid the resistance to colonial rule, tied to the struggle for independence.
At those roots stand the Trưng Sisters (Hai Bà Trưng), who rose against northern domination in AD 40. Their courage remains a symbol of the strength and progressiveness of Vietnamese women to this day. In other words, women’s day in Vietnam is more than a “day to receive flowers” — it honors women’s devotion and history. You can read more at Vietnamese Women’s Day (Wikipedia).
Why flower gifts matter in Vietnam
In Vietnam, flowers are not mere decoration but an expression of respect and gratitude. People value the fact that you “remembered, prepared ahead, and conveyed your heart” more than the price. So even a small bouquet, given with sincerity, shines.
One thing to remember when giving flowers on this day: in Vietnam, chrysanthemums or all-white arrangements evoke funerals, so avoid them for celebrations. To understand the meaning of colors and flowers, see Flower-gifting etiquette in Vietnam.
What women’s day looks like in Vietnam
On this day, flower stalls multiply across Ho Chi Minh City, and people carrying bouquets are everywhere. Among women, the first greeting can be “Did you get flowers today?” — that’s how natural giving flowers is. At work, male colleagues hand flowers to female colleagues, sometimes with a small gathering or event. Some shops and venues even offer women a small discount or perk.
So if you’re in Ho Chi Minh City on this day, handing a single flower to the women around you is a natural, welcome greeting. For Korean–Vietnamese families or those working in Vietnam, it’s all the more worth remembering.
A pink-rose and lily bouquet for women’s day — an arrangement that brightens the recipient’s day
What to give by recipient
The right flower depends on who receives it. Picture the person and choose.
| Recipient | Suggested flower | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Partner, wife | Roses | Red = love, pink = gratitude & affection |
| Mother, elder | Lilies, carnations | Respect and motherhood |
| Teacher | Lilies, orchids | Grace and courtesy |
| Female colleague, boss | Phalaenopsis orchid | Elegant and formal |
| Young woman, friend | Tulips, sunflowers | Bright and trendy |
Flower meanings at a glance
- Roses — love (red), gratitude (pink), purity (white).
- Lilies — purity and respect, for mothers and teachers.
- Sunflowers — hope and positive energy.
- Carnations — motherhood, devotion, respect.
- Phalaenopsis orchids — elegance and class, the most popular bloom today.
- Tulips — confidence and new beginnings, for younger women.
If you’d like to know more about each flower’s meaning, see Vietnamese flowers and their meanings.
Today’s trends — gifts to pair with flowers
Recently, the trend of adding a small gift, or choosing a practical gift alongside flowers, is clear. Chocolate and cake, perfume and cosmetics, fashion accessories like scarves are typical — and above all, a handwritten card doubles the sentiment.
There’s an interesting shift, too: edible gifts are gaining popularity, with or instead of flowers. Fruit baskets arranged like bouquets with strawberries and grapes, or cakes decorated like flowers, are typical. Younger, practicality-minded people are choosing these more. Even so, the star of the day is still flowers, so a flowers + small gift combo is the safest and best-loved choice.
Ordering women’s day flowers in Ho Chi Minh City
Ho Chi Minh City offers many options — professional florists, street stalls, and online. But on women’s day itself, orders surge and popular flowers sell out early, so ordering ahead from a local florist is safest. Booking a few days early lets you receive exactly the flowers and arrangement you want.
HAMYFLORE offers same-day delivery within about 2 hours in central HCMC, and sends a photo of the finished bouquet before delivery. Just tell us the recipient and budget, and we’ll propose the prettiest arrangement. Browse our products to find the right flowers.
Three tips to prepare without regret
- Order ahead. Just before March 8 and October 20, popular flowers vanish fast. Booking a few days early is safe.
- Tell us the recipient. Partner, mother, or teacher — the recommendation changes completely.
- State your budget first. We’ll propose the prettiest arrangement within it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Between March 8 and October 20, which is the bigger day? A. Both are observed, but in Vietnam October 20 — marking the Women’s Union’s founding — is felt to be a touch more special.
Q. What flowers are good for a teacher? A. Graceful, courteous flowers like lilies or orchids work well. A neat arrangement suits better than something flashy.
Q. Can I order on the day and still receive it? A. Central HCMC usually delivers within 2 hours, but on women’s day sell-outs and delays are common, so booking ahead is recommended.
Q. What else should I give besides flowers? A. Chocolate, perfume, and a handwritten card are the most loved combos. Lately, edible gifts like fruit baskets or flower-shaped cakes are also popular.
Q. Are there flowers to avoid? A. Chrysanthemums and all-white arrangements evoke funerals in Vietnam, so avoid them for celebrations. Choose bright, vivid colors.
Q. Is women’s day a public holiday in Vietnam? A. It’s not an official day off, but it’s an official commemorative day marking the Women’s Union’s founding, widely observed nationwide.
In closing
The heart of women’s day is not an expensive gift but the feeling of “I thought of you.” Whether March 8 or October 20, convey that feeling with flowers to someone you cherish. If you need to prepare in Ho Chi Minh City, HAMYFLORE will help with care. Feel free to reach us on Zalo.
HCMC Flower Delivery, HAMYFLORE
We deliver your heart as fresh as possible. Feel free to reach us on Zalo or Telegram.
