When people hear “Women’s Day,” many think of International Women’s Day on March 8. International Women’s Day is a worldwide event with origins in demonstrations calling for women’s suffrage and gender equality. Even today, it is established around the world as an opportunity to honor women’s courage and to express gratitude for everyday housework and childcare.

Of course, International Women’s Day is well known in Vietnam as well, but even more lively is “Vietnam Women’s Day,” a Vietnam-specific commemorative day observed on October 20.

What Is Vietnam Women’s Day?

The reason Women’s Day is so deeply rooted in Vietnam is, simply put, because women hold strong influence. Throughout daily life and wartime, women have a history of playing active roles.

In Vietnam, Mothers and Grandmothers Hold Enormous Power

Vietnamese households are run under the direction of mothers and grandmothers. It is not uncommon to see a husband napping on a motorbike while his wife works busily nearby. Vietnamese women have a strong sense of protecting their families and are tougher in both mind and body than men. For that reason, in Vietnamese society it is considered even more important than in Japan to express respect and gratitude toward women.

A Commemorative Day Established by the Communist Party of Vietnam

Behind the establishment of Vietnam Women’s Day is a history of war. Vietnam has endured many wars, including the Vietnam War, and tough women in both mind and body often played active roles. On October 20, 1930, an organization that became the predecessor of today’s Vietnam Women’s Union was founded. Spurred by that, the Communist Party of Vietnam designated October 20 as Women’s Day.

What Do Men Do on Vietnam Women’s Day?

As Vietnam Women’s Day approaches, flower shops line the streets of Vietnam, and commercial facilities and supermarkets hold sales, wrapping the atmosphere in festivity.

It Is Standard for Men to Give Women Presents

On Vietnam Women’s Day, it is standard for men to give presents to women. Recipients range widely—wives, grandmothers, sisters, partners, colleagues, and more. Children sometimes give presents to their mothers or teachers as well. Men tend to spend the most on partners and wives. As Women’s Day approaches, it is common among Vietnamese couples for women to ask for the presents they want.

Companies Sometimes Hold Parties for Women

Another feature of Vietnam Women’s Day is that male colleagues at work may organize lunch parties or after-work drinks. Vietnamese people love holding simple lunch parties during the lunch break using takeout. While splitting the bill is common on ordinary days, on Vietnam Women’s Day the men cover the full cost.

4 Perfect Gift Ideas for Vietnam Women’s Day

Vietnam has a national character that values expressing gratitude in everyday life. For that reason, people are very happy to receive presents as a token of thanks. Here are some perfect gift ideas for Vietnam Women’s Day—please use them as a reference.

Flowers Are a Must-Give Present on Women’s Day

Flowers are a present you should always prepare for Vietnam Women’s Day. For a special woman such as a partner, a lavish bouquet is essential, but for friends or colleagues even a single stem is enough to convey your feelings. Unlike Japan, Vietnam does not have a custom of giving bright red flowers. Softer pinks or yellows are more likely to be appreciated.

Japanese Skincare Products Are Also Popular Gifts

Japanese skincare products are presents that Vietnamese women are sure to appreciate. For Vietnamese people, the fact that something is “Made in Japan” matters, so you do not need to prepare expensive items. In Vietnam, many women are concerned about darker skin tones because of intense direct sunlight. Cosmetics that support whitening or prevent dark spots are therefore recommended.

When Treating Someone to a Meal, Say So Clearly

Treating someone to a meal is also appreciated as a Women’s Day present, but treating them without explaining the reason is not okay. Vietnamese women have a strong sense of equality and take splitting the bill for granted. Having someone pay can sometimes hurt their pride. So it is better to say in advance that you are treating them because it is Women’s Day.

Message Cards Are Appreciated More Than You Might Expect

Some people may worry that it would be rude not to give something expensive, but what matters in Vietnam is the act of conveying gratitude. That is why message cards are appreciated more than Japanese people might imagine. Vietnamese women like beautiful things, so choose a colorful card with a floral design or similar. Japan has many elaborately made message cards that look great on social media. Being able to share happiness with friends on Facebook or Instagram is sure to delight them.

Conclusion

Vietnamese women living in Japan often feel a little lonely inside if there are no events or gifts on Women’s Day, October 20. Simply giving a bouquet, holding a lunch party, or preparing a small present can brighten a Vietnamese woman’s spirits right away. Why not try incorporating a little of this Vietnamese custom of Women’s Day as a way to build better relationships?

Keep Track of Vietnam’s Holidays and Commemorative Days Year-Round

There are many other commemorative days like Women’s Day. With the Practical Guide to Vietnamese Holidays and Annual Events, you can rest easy by keeping the dates that matter at work on an annual calendar.