Vietnam During Tet: A Survival Guide (How To Enjoy It)

Lion and Dragon dance plays a big role in Vietnamese Tet holiday, and you can spot its performance pretty much anywhere on the street

Lunar New Year, also known as Vietnamese New Year or Tết, is the most significant holiday in Vietnam, a symbol of reunions, celebrations and overall, a fresh start. This special occasion, which usually falls in late January or early February. From colorful flower markets to sacred rituals and fun festive activities, Vietnam during Tết offers visitors a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the heart of Vietnamese culture. However, a lot of businesses and establishments close during this time, so this will be your ultimate guide to fully enjoy this festive season in Vietnam

1. Where to go in Vietnam during Tet:

Although neighborhoods might be quiet, many businesses on the main streets would still operate, so worry not!

Main cities and tourist attractions like Saigon (Ho Chi Minh city), Hanoi, Da Nang… are your safe bets as businesses in those cities will still be operating during Tet, plus there are special activities and decorations. If you’re looking to explore beyond the cities, consider visiting some of Vietnam’s iconic destinations such as Hạ Long Bay’s serene beauty, Hội An’s lantern-lit streets, or Sapa’s terraced rice fields provide a peaceful escape from the holiday hustle. Keep in mind that some tourist attractions may be closed during the first few days of Tết, the ticket and accommodation prices will increase during this time so plan accordingly.

While cities are bustling with activities, the countryside offers a more serene and authentic Tết experience. If you’re invited by a Vietnamese friend to visit their hometown during Tet, don’t let the opportunity pass. Villages are often less commercialized, and you’ll get a chance to see families preparing for the new year by cleaning their homes, cooking traditional dishes like bánh chưng, and join an ancestral offerings, witness the meaningful exchange of lì xì (red envelopes) filled with lucky money. It’s a rare opportunity to connect with locals on a personal level.

2. What to do in Vietnam during Tet:

Before checking out our list, find out more how we Saigonese prepare for Tet in this video.

Doesn’t matter where you go, enjoy the moment and capture the highlights of the trip

- Grab your phone/camera and capture this once-a-year beauty: During Tết, cities and towns are decorated with dazzling lights, colorful banners, and festive decorations. In Ho Chi Minh City, Nguyễn Huệ Flower Street is a must-visit. This pedestrianized area is transformed into an elaborate floral exhibition with intricate displays. In Hanoi, the Old Quarter buzzes with lanterns, calligraphy, and festive crafts. This is a perfect time for taking a leisurely stroll, snapping photos, and soaking in the celebratory atmosphere.

Fireworks are symbolic figures of good news and awakening

- See the fireworks: Just like the New Year’s eve, major cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang organize spectacular fireworks shows on Tet’s Eve, welcoming new beginnings. Join the crowd at popular central spots like Hoan Kiem Lake in Hanoi or the Nguyen Hue walking street in Ho Chi Minh City to witness these breathtaking shows and see how Vietnamese people ring in the new year

Ho Thi Ky flower night market in Ho Chi Minh city is very radiant during Tet

- Visit as many flower markets/streets as you can: Flower markets and decorations are a quintessential part of Tết celebrations, as flowers symbolize good fortune and prosperity for the new year. Stroll through the vibrant streets of Hanoi’s Quảng Bá Flower Market or Ho Chi Minh City’s Ho Thi Ky, or head down to the city center to see the beautifully decorated “flowers street” with different themes and all kinds of flowers and plants, you’ll find everything from bright yellow apricot blossoms (hoa mai) in the South to peach blossoms (hoa đào) in the North, both iconic symbols of Tết. Kumquat trees, laden with fruit, are another favorite, representing wealth and abundance. At these markets, you can also see families selecting flowers to decorate their homes and immerse yourself in the Tet vibe.

Burning incense is an act of showing your respect, gratitude and goodwill toward the heavenly deities

- Participate in Cultural and Religious Traditions: During Tết, many Vietnamese visit temples and pagodas to pray for health, wealth, and happiness in the coming year. Some of the most popular spots include the Perfume Pagoda near Hanoi, the Jade Emperor Temple in Ho Chi Minh City, and the Linh Ứng Pagoda in Da Nang. Even if you’re not religious, this is a special occasion to learn more about the locals’ beliefs and spiritual lives. Don’t forget to wear modest attire when visiting these sacred sites.

Tet is the time for family reunions and heart-warming meals

- Try Traditional Tết Foods: Tết is not just a time for celebration, but also a time to feast. Don’t miss bánh chưng (square sticky rice cake ) or bánh tét (cylindrical sticky rice cake), both stuffed with mung beans, pork and wrapped in banana leaves. Other must-try dishes include giò lụa (Vietnamese pork sausage), thịt kho trứng (braised pork and eggs in coconut juice), and xôi gấc (red sticky rice). For desserts, have yourself some mứt (candied fruits) or a warm cup of Vietnamese tea, often served with sunflower seeds.

In 2025, Vietnam is going to celebrate Tet holiday from January 25th to February 2nd

With its blend of vibrant festivities, deep-rooted traditions, and of course a lot of fun and celebrations, Vietnam during Tết offers a unique cultural experience. By immersing yourself in the customs and spirit of Tết, you’ll not only discover the heart of Vietnam but also gain a profound appreciation for its rich heritage.

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Vietnam During Tet: A Survival Guide (How To Enjoy It)

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