vietnam travel during tet

Vietnam off the beaten track

Travel guide, visit vietnam during tet: your essential handbook to everything you need to know.

Tet Holiday, or Vietnamese New Year, is the most significant public celebration in Vietnam, marked by unique traditions and cultural richness. In 2024, Tet will be celebrated from February 10 to February 14, following the Kitchen God festival on February 2. Experience the two distinct phases of Tet: before and after New Year's Eve, witnessing a transformation from the bustling and serene to a jubilant atmosphere. Explore our articles to discover the captivating aspects of this traditional celebration and gain insights into what to observe during your visit.

Things to know about visiting Vietnam on Tet holiday (Vietnamese Lunar New Year)

1. Weather during Tet holiday in Vietnam

The weather during the Tet holiday in Vietnam can vary depending on the specific location within the country. Typical weather in each region of Vietnam will be different across the country.

Northern Vietnam (Hanoi and the surrounding areas):

During Tet in the north, the weather is often cool and sometimes chilly. This period is in the midst of the dry and cool season, changing from Winter to Spring. Daytime temperatures may range from 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F). It can get colder in the evenings, dropping to 15°C or lower. The skies are generally clear and sunny, making it a pleasant time for outdoor sightseeing and mountainous adventure.

Central Vietnam (Hue, Danang, Hoi An and surrounding areas):

Central Vietnam experiences a more temperate and relatively dry climate during Tet.

Daytime temperatures in cities like Danang and Hue can be around 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), making it a comfortable time to visit temples and pagodas. Travelers feel free to bask in the sunlight. The weather is less humid and rainy compared to the previous months of the year.

Southern Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta and surrounding areas):

Southern Vietnam, encompassing Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta, enjoys warm and dry weather during Tet, with temperatures ranging from 28°C to 32°C (82°F to 89°F). This creates a tropical and sunny atmosphere, perfect for outdoor gatherings and festivals. The diverse climate mirrors a diversity in culture and customs. While the North embraces warm layers, the South opts for shorts and skirts. Different flowers, like the yellow apricot blossom in the central and south and peach flowers in the north, characterize the regions. Consider traversing the country during Tet to fully immerse yourself in the varied local cultures from one end to the other.

2. Traffic here and there

You will be amazed by seeing two contrasting pictures of transportation in Vietnam before and after New Year's Eve .

Transportation in Vietnam one week before New Year can be quite challenging due to the massive movement of people as they travel to their hometowns to celebrate the Lunar New Year with their families. There is a significant increase in travel demand before the main days of the Tet holiday, with many Vietnamese people returning to their hometowns. This means that almost all modes of transportation are in high demand.

If you plan to fly during Tet, book your flights well in advance to secure your seats. Major airports like Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City and Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi can be especially busy during this period. In addition to planes, trains are a popular mode of transportation during Tet.

Transportation fares can rise during the Tet holiday due to high demand. Even though the fares are higher, tickets for trains, buses, and flights often still sell out quickly.

Before New Year’s Eve , in major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, traffic congestion can be more frequent as people move around for year-end parties or back to their hometowns. Just be calm when the roads become clogged and travel times between sightseeings might be longer than usual.

On the main days of Tet, you will see the scene change from hustle and bustle cities to tranquil ones. There are none of the usual crowded and noisy scenes. The urban city is different from itself on normal days. On the first day of the Vietnamese New Year, the area is quiet with fresh air.

Despite that, some transport providers may close or operate on a limited schedule. This can impact your travel options, so it's better to confirm your schedules in advance.

3. Tourist attractions during Tet

Tet, the paramount traditional festival in Vietnam, brings a temporary closure to many businesses and attractions as people take a short break. The pre-Tet period witnesses vibrant decorations across cities and towns, with streets adorned in flowers, lanterns, and colorful displays. Exploring these festive streets offers a delightful experience.

Leading up to Tet, flower markets emerge in cities, and flower gardens burst with vivid colors. Visiting renowned spots like Tao Dan Flower (HCMC), Hang Luoc Flower Market (Hanoi), Nhat Tan Flower Village (Hanoi), and Sa Dec Flower Village (Dong Thap) provides a lively and colorful glimpse into the festive spirit.

Witness calligraphers creating auspicious words and phrases at Museums or Temple of Literature during Tet, symbolizing good luck, prosperity, health, and happiness on red paper or banners. The color red holds significant symbolism in Vietnamese culture, representing luck and happiness. Consider obtaining one to embrace the Lunar New Year spirit.

As part of Tet customs, many individuals visit temples and pagodas to pray for a prosperous year. Explore renowned places like Tran Quoc Pagoda in Hanoi during this time, but remain vigilant against theft.

While some tourist sites may close during the actual Tet holiday, historical sites and museums remain open leading up to and after Tet. Plan your visits accordingly to make the most of your trip. You should check on each attraction's website, and official fan page Facebook for exact open hours during Tet.

>> See more about The Best Locations In Mekong Delta To Take Beautiful Photos During The Tet Holiday.

4. Local restaurants

During Tet, numerous businesses, especially restaurants, may adjust operating hours or temporarily close to enable staff to celebrate with their families. Availability depends on factors like location, restaurant type, and local customs.

In major cities like Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, and Danang, some restaurants may stay open, especially those catering to tourists. However, smaller family-run eateries and street food vendors may close, especially in the initial days of the holiday. Consider a street food tour before or after Tet.

Hotels and international chain restaurants usually remain open, providing a reliable dining option. Booking hotels in advance and checking their restaurant offerings can be convenient.

For an authentic Tet experience, explore special Tet markets or food stalls offering traditional holiday dishes like banh chung. Most closed restaurants typically reopen gradually after the first 3-4 days of Tet.

5. Accommodations: hotel or homestay

During Tet, Vietnamese traditionally gathered at home, but modern life has seen a shift toward utilizing time off for travel. Popular destinations like Hoi An, Da Nang, Phu Quoc, and Nha Trang expect increased domestic travelers, leading to high demand for accommodations, potentially resulting in limited availability and higher prices.

Many businesses, including accommodations, may close or operate with reduced services during Tet as staff takes time off to celebrate with their families. Despite this, accommodations, especially in tourist areas, may feature festive decorations and activities, enhancing the Lunar New Year experience.

Consider staying in local guesthouses or homestays for a more culturally immersive Tet experience. This offers the chance to participate in traditional celebrations with the host family, gaining insights into Vietnamese traditions and customs from a local perspective.

6. Let's go shopping

Shopping during Tet is a unique experience. The period leading up to Tet is marked by bustling markets, special sales, and a festive atmosphere as people prepare to celebrate the most significant holiday in Vietnam.

In the weeks before Tet, markets buzz with heightened activity as people prepare for the holiday by purchasing food, decorations, and gifts. Families stock up on ingredients for traditional dishes and buy symbolic flowers like apricot blossoms and peach blossoms. New clothes are also customary for a fresh start in the new year.

Leading up to Tet, markets and malls become bustling hubs, creating a joyful atmosphere. Special promotions and discounts are common, encouraging holiday purchases. Traditional markets continue to play a significant role, offering a wide range of goods and a more traditional shopping experience.

Brands release Tet-themed products and limited-edition items to celebrate the holiday, making Tet shopping a cultural and social experience. Travelers can immerse themselves in Vietnam's shopping paradise during Tet but should be cautious about potential overcharging.

7. Banking & money exchange

During the Tet (Vietnamese Lunar New Year), banks usually close for several days, and the exact closure dates can vary from year to year as Tet is based on the lunar calendar. Banks typically close a few days before Tet and remain closed for a few days after the holiday, with services resuming once the holiday period concludes. In 2024, banks such as Vietcombank , BIDV, VietinBank, TPBank, Agribank, etc. will close from 08/02/2024 until 14/02/2024.

When dealing with banking services in Vietnam during Tet, be sure to check the specific holiday schedule and operating hours in advance. While Internet Banking and ATM services remain available, it's recommended to have sufficient cash on hand due to potential issues like high demand and cash shortages that may affect ATMs.

For currency exchange, consider exchanging a small amount before traveling or at the airport, although rates there are less favorable. More advantageous exchange rates can often be found at jewelry shops in Hanoi Old Quarter or near Ho Chi Minh City's Ben Thanh market.

8. How to say Happy New Year in Vietnamese?

Vietnamese believe that New Year's blessings signify fortunes for the entire year. If the family experiences good things on New Year's Day, it's believed that the entire following year will be filled with similar blessings.

To wish "Happy New Year" in Vietnamese, use the phrase "Chúc Mừng Năm Mới," pronounced as "chook moon numb moy." While Vietnamese tones can be challenging, a big smile and this pronunciation will convey your New Year's greetings effectively.

Besides, people commonly wish each other luck, health and prosperity for example:

An khang thịnh vượng: peace, good health & prosperity

Vạn sự như ý: all your wishes come true

Sống lâu trăm tuổi: live up to 100 years

Sức khỏe dồi dào: good health & strength

Tiền vô như nước: money comes in like water

Tet is a special time in Vietnam, and experiencing it firsthand can be a memorable and culturally rich travel experience. By planning ahead and understanding the unique aspects of Tet, you can make the most of your time and enjoy the festive activities surrounding the Vietnamese Lunar New Year .

Are you ready for a Vietnam trip? If you need a tailor-made tour package to Vietnam, don't hesitate to send an inquiry  or leave a comment below. We will get back to you for the quality travel program and best quotation. Wish you peace, health, and prosperity.

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An Expert Guide to Travelling in Vietnam During Tết

Our Expert Guide to Travelling in Vietnam During Tết Holiday

If you plan on travelling during Tết you need to be prepared as it will have a major impact on your trip – this guide has all the info you need to know!

If there’s one thing we learned from a year living in Vietnam it’s that Tết is a pretty confusing holiday. Ask other travellers what the celebration is for and they’re unlikely to know.  Ask some of the locals and they’ll likely struggle to explain it too. Even with its mysterious reputation Tết is a seriously big deal, it’s like Christmas and New Year’s all crammed into two weeks of family, tradition and culture.

Despite the celebration being incredibly important, and it having huge impacts for travellers, finding reliable information is surprisingly hard – we learned first-hand. We didn’t know what to expect and definitely didn’t know how to plan the two week period. Local friends weren’t very helpful and all we could gather is that some things would be very busy and others things would be very quiet…

It’s safe to say we survived, had a bloody brilliant time and have come out with all the information you need to adventure with confidence. In this Tết travel guide you’ll find;

• Tết… what is it, when is it and where is it celebrated

The holiday build up

• Holiday traditions and customs

The Vietnamese and Tết

• What to expect whilst travelling
• Tips for travelling in Vietnam during Tết

Tết… what is it, when is it and where is it celebrated?

These are all things that took a long time to figure out. Many locals will just say ‘it’s a holiday…’ which is right but there’s a whole lot more to it than that. 

In short Tết is the Vietnamese welcoming of the the new year celebrated throughout the country.

Traditionally it was a time to show respect for family and ancestors, past and present, and also to have a break between agricultural seasons. It’s a very spiritual holiday, when people finish the current year’s business and start the new year with good fortune and happiness.

This New Year ain’t January 1st though…

It changes every year and goes by the lunar calendar but is generally from mid-January to mid-February. This year coming (2020) it’s on January 25th and the official national holiday runs for about a week afterwards. This link has scheduled dates for the coming years. Also, to those of you interested in the zodiac we’ll be moving into the year of the pig . 

Despite there being only 5 days of official holiday everyone is in party mode for at least a week before and after. This makes visiting Vietnam during Tết a whole different experience to other times of the year. When we were there in 2017 the Vietnamese New Year’s Day was January 28th however the whole country began to slowly shut down from Christmas onward.

And, although Tết is officially the first day of the lunar year, the word Tết is also used to describe the whole celebratory period.

Visiting Vietnam? You’ll probably need a visa !

Though the actual holiday is famously relaxing the weeks before are completely different – Vietnam goes into overdrive!

You’ll see people celebrating in the streets, perhaps throwing firecrackers and definitely burning sheets of lucky paper for their ancestors. The party atmosphere is easy to feel and in bigger cities public stages are set up showing free entertainment, music and karaoke.

Most shops and businesses close for 2 weeks over the holiday so before everyone is in a mad panic to buy all their necessities. Markets and shopping areas will be carnage.   If you’re a fan of hustle and bustle then this can be quite an exciting experience, If you’re a country bumpkin who likes the slower pace of life then prepare to have a heart attack. 

Whilst the build up to Tết can be very manic, the days following are blissfully serene.

When the holiday begins cities empty and families return to hometowns to spend time with relatives, friends and neighbours, feasting and celebrating together. The streets will be empty and in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City that’s really saying something. You can walk the city in peace though they have a very different feel without all of the beeping horns and scooter dodging. 

Want to know more about travelling in Vietnam?

Some interesting Tết traditions and customs

Whilst Christmas and New Year may have moved away from their religious roots in the West, Tết has kept true to its history and the holiday period is filled with culture and tradition. There’s a very obvious emphasis on tying up all loose ends from the previous year and starting the new year in the best way possible. It’s quite a magical time filled with superstition, fortune and history.

Before Tết people clean their homes to get rid of bad luck, make sure they’ve paid off all of their debts and resolve any outstanding arguments. People, especially children, will get new clothes to wear on the first day of the year and homes and streets are brightly decorated.

Kumquat trees and peach blossoms, both with important symbolic meaning in Vietnamese culture, are put in homes and businesses, again with the hope of bringing good wishes for the year to come. You’ll see them all over the country either being displayed or being bought and sold from markets. 

You’ll also see plenty of trays containing 5 fruits being taken to shrines and temples. The fruits vary regionally but all symbolise elements for a positive year. Many people wear red, similar to other Asian countries, as it’s believed the colour brings good luck.

One of our favourite aspects of Tết is  Banh chung , or Tet cake . A green leaf-wrapped square that you’re sure to see being bought and sold everywhere. It’s traditionally made together by the family and contains glutinous rice, mung beans and pork. To all you veggie travellers, Hanoi is a surprisingly good place for vegans and in many veggie restaurants or shops it’s possible to buy a meat-free alternative which is absolutely delicious!

Generally people try to smile and be friendly to others as they believe what they do on New Year’s Eve will determine their fate for the rest of the year. It’s also normal to refrain from sweeping or cutting nails and hair as to not get rid of good luck.

Typically the first day of the new year is spent with immediate family, the second for visiting friends and the third for visiting temples. Temples will be filled to the brim with locals giving prayers and offerings to bring good wishes for their loved ones. It’s also a great time for kids as they’re often given gifts and ‘lucky money’ in red envelopes!

The first person to enter your home in the new year also has huge significance and is thought to bring either good or bad luck. Generally t he head of the house or someone successful is the first person to be invited in after midnight in the hope of bringing a prosperous year.     

One of the best ways you can experience Tet is with a local family . This may be difficult if you’re not spending much time in the country but if you get the chance to meet and bond with locals they may invite you to celebrate with them. This will be an incredible opportunity to experience the culture and hospitality that shouldn’t be passed up!

Looking for some inspiration? This Vietnam photography portfolio shows the real side to this fascinating country

What to expect travelling in Vietnam during Tết

Travelling at this time of year will have a huge impact on your travels, so you need to plan accordingly. It’s huge and happens across the whole country. Businesses will shut, attractions will close and everyone will be on the move either to their hometowns or on holiday. Whilst Tết is not necessarily a bad time of year to visit Vietnam, it’s important to know what you’re going up against.

These are some of the most important areas you need to think about…

Transport during Tết

There will be a mass exodus of people leaving cities just before Tết so roads will be like clogged arteries. Short journeys can take all day and longer journeys should perhaps be avoided unless you like sleeping on the road. Routes coming away from big cities like HCMC or Hanoi will  be particularly rammed.

Many Vietnamese will use public transport so it means you’ll need to book all transport tickets far in advance.

Buses, planes and trains will be booked long before the holiday so make sure you’re organised and book your tickets early.

Being so busy, expect delays on all forms of transport and big price increases . If you have a flight to catch then make plan ample time to get to the airport because there will be traffic!

Once Tết arrives, transport will be available but limited. It won’t be busy as most Vietnamese are tucked up at home with their families but expect high prices and unreliable times and schedules (if they’re running at all). Contact companies before and don’t be surprised if they make up the price in front of you.

After Tết traffic is not so bad as people will return to the cities gradually rather than the whole country at once. Smaller transport companies will slowly get back to regular schedules but it will take at least a week before it’s completely back to normal.

Transport from travel agencies is often more expensive and may not be any more reliable than cheaper alternatives .

It’s quite common for travel agents to charge double the price and simply buy regular public transport tickets. You’ll get dropped off at the station and end up getting the same bus as everyone else but for a bigger price tag.

Transport tips during Tết

• Try to avoid long-distance travel in the week building up to Tết
• If you do travel at this point make sure you book your tickets at least 1 month in advance
• Bring a book to pass the time
• If you’re travelling to the airport give yourself a lot of time
• Be prepared for delays and increased prices
• Make sure you contact the travel company before travel

Accommodation during Tết

Many tourists are put off travelling Vietnam during during Tết which means for mid-range accommodation you’ll have plenty of options. You won’t need to book in advance and we’ve even heard of some hotels dropping prices as they’ve had so few customers. Other hotels increase their prices due to the holiday so it’s best to take a look online and see what the best deals are.

In smaller, rural locations it may be difficult to find accommodation during the holiday period. Family-run guest houses will quite likely close so make sure you check online to see. If you do find a small guest house which is still open there’s a good chance you’ll be invited to the families celebrations which will be an incredible experience.

For accommodation at this time of year your best places to search are  Hostel World for cheaper options,  Booking.com for a range of budgets and Airbnb for guest houses and home stays (you can save £35 off your first booking with this code !).

Accommodation tips during Tết

• Aim to stay in more developed areas for a wider variety of accommodation options
• Family-run hostels and guesthouses are less likely to stay open during Tết
• Hotel prices can vary but will generally be under booked and easy to find
• Find somewhere with self catering so you can cook for yourself and avoid hunting for restaurants
• If you can stay in smaller guest houses it will be a good way of experiencing cultural celebrations

Shopping during Tết

In the week leading up to Tết shops and markets are swarming with people trying to get their shopping before the holiday. In touristy areas some shops stay open however it’s few and far between. If you’re staying outside of cities or well travelled spots then you may struggle.

Although markets and shops used to be closed for almost a week now it’s only likely to be the first few days of the new year.

A word of warning – haggling should be avoided during this period . The Vietnamese believe it’s a bad way to start the year, so if you don’t like the price of something it’s better to walk away than trying to negotiate a cheaper price.

Shopping tips during Tết

• Shops will be busy building up to Tết
• Shops may shut or have little stock
• Stock up on water and necessities if you’re going to be in more rural locations
• DON’T HAGGLE, it’s seen as disrespectful
• Be prepared to walk to find an open shop

Eating and drinking during Tết

If you’re wanting a culinary tour of Vietnam this may not be the ideal time. Outside of cities and touristy areas most restaurants will close over the holiday as families will eat together at home.

In the last few years, you could almost forget it’s a holiday in areas of Hanoi and HCMC, with still quite a lively atmosphere in places like Beer Street, Hanoi . Some bars, restaurants and cafes will remain open and this can be a good time to meet some locals and learn a bit about the drinking  culture.

Eating and drinking tips during Tết

• Expect higher prices, limited options and fewer places open
• If places are open they’ll be in holiday mode so go with a relaxed attitude
• Embrace the holiday and if you see locals drinking and eating ask if you can join them
• Be respectful of the local culture if you’re drinking
• If you do find a good place to eat then fill up cos you might not find another

Sightseeing during Tết

Museums, galleries and mausoleums will be closed for the national holiday so they’re out of the question. This can be a great time of year to explore the free activities in Vietnam and marvel at the empty streets.

Temples will be the only part of cities that remain busy as most locals visit them throughout the holiday. If you’re looking for a relaxed, meditative atmosphere then this is not the time to come. If you want to see real Vietnamese culture and families paying their respects to gods and ancestors then you could temple hop for days.

Most National Parks will still be open (or just not physically able to close) but it’s a good idea to call and check before. Popular destinations like Hoi An will be filled with local families, as will popular beaches close to cities.

Sightseeing tips during Tết

• Definitely go to visit temples to see local culture
• ATMs will be working but banks will be closed for the national holiday
• Take advantage of the quiet streets and explore the city or go for a run/cycle
• Have an adventure in empty national parks
• Save museums, galleries and mausoleums for after the holidays

Be Cautious…

Whilst it is an incredible country there is a lot of corruption and bribery in Vietnam which unfortunately tends to increase around Tết. This period is expensive for everyone, so everyone wants to take home as much money as possible before the holiday period. Officials, and police in particular, are much more likely to strengthen their money making schemes. Watch out for traffic police!

This is also the time where drink driving is at it’s peak, so be vigilant on the roads!

Our Most Important Tip

Learn this phrase and say it when you meet or say goodbye to people: chúc mừng năm mới

It’s the Vietnamese phrase to say ‘happy new year’ and it’s sure to put a smile on any locals face. We were still saying it a month after the new year…

A Vagabond’s Guide to Travelling in Vietnam During Tết

This is without a doubt an incredibly special time in the Vietnamese calendar and can make for memorable and unique travel experiences. To watch fields of families paying their respects in temples is truly priceless and exploring deserted cities is a beautiful opportunity.

That being said, travelling in Vietnam during Tết can also cause a big headache if you don’t plan ahead. Our words of advice are to go with an open mind and a lot of patience. Respect that this is the most important time of year for the Vietnamese and if you get the opportunity definitely celebrate with them and embrace the holiday!

If you’ve been to Vietnam during Tết or have any questions then drop us a line in the comments below!

38 Comments

wow this was super informative and interesting!

Great tips on traveling during a VERY important holiday and celebration time in Vietnam. Visiting a country during celebrations like this can be the worst of times (if you are not prepared) and the best of times (if you are). You get to experience, as you did, another culture and place in a most unique way.

I would assume it is much similar to Vietnam all over Asia at Chinese New year. It certainly seems like a fun time for the locals if only we got to celebrate for a month in the states.

I love when people aren’t afraid to go big with their celebrations. I also really like the idea of your year being determined by how you behave on the eve of the new year. It makes more sense to set intentions that way, by actually living them, then by saying a bunch of resolutions you might never keep.

I learned something new today 🙂 I’ve never heard of Tet and it really does help to know these type of big holidays when traveling!

Thanks for sharing this post! I really love this post, so informative and the photos are lovely! It is really nice seeing them with their family giving value with the most important time of the year.

We love Vietnam, their food, customs, people and culture (well, my family is originally from Vietnam, soo I’m kinda biased! haha..) but we’ve never been there during Tet. So maybe next time we’ll go there for the Lunar New Year! Although… I’m afraid we’ll end up spending lots of money on red envelopes for families and so! haha…

That sounds like a very busy time of year to be travelling in Vietnam. It could be frustrating if you didnt know about the holiday in advance, and i have not really thought of Vietnam as having these holidays. I like the traditions you mention on how they spend the 3 days at home.

Well, the first half is very busy and then it’s eerily quiet, so it’s definitely an experience!

Amazing, what part of Vietnam are you from? I thought it was an amazing country and I’d love to go back and visit all the areas we missed out. Ha, yes the lucky money seems to be big business for kids!

I agree, it’s nice when families celebrate together for holidays. There is less and less of this culture in the UK unfortunately.

Yeh, we met some travellers last year who didn’t realise and it majorly changed their travel plans, so it’s a good thing to know 🙂

Very true, it definitely has it’s pros and cons. Ha, I think a lot of times travelling that I try to consider the cons as ‘experiences’ rather than bad points!

Yes a lot of the countries in Asia will be in a similar situation, so lots of partying to be done!

It’s a cool custom isn’t it? I’d like to incorporate it into my New Years too

I love the idea of starting the new year clean- it’s a wonderful tradition. Eventhough local celebrations can affect your visit in a way that not everything will be open and running, it is a perfect way to immerse yourself in the local culture. So nice that you could experience that!

It’s a great tradition isn’t it! Thanks for the comment 🙂

I love how different countries have their own way of celebrating the New Year. There’s nothing like a good tidy to clear the bad energy ?

Wow! I loved your post. Keep it up.

Vietnam seems to be very good place to visit. I must think about celebrating new year there.

Wow! Great read. Love the pics. You are great 😉

Thanks Dan! Are you travelling to Vietnam soon?

Thanks for the information. Vietnam and Combodia is in my top tourist places to visit. I like to be there for a while…

Vietnam is a fantastic country, isn’t it? We’ve never been to Cambodia unfortunately, it’s one on the bucket list. Where would you recommend visiting?

Im planning 4 weeks in Vietnam across January and February, how long after TET (this year 25th Jan) is everything closed? Wondering if i delay heading to Vietnam (starting in Hanoi) until the 27th…? Definitely having second thoughts about a lot of my plans!

Hi Caroline, first of all, you’re going to have an awesome time! Vietnam is a fantastic country and Hanoi is probably one of our favourite capitals in the world!

In our experience, whilst there’s only a week of holidays, you’ll notice changes a week before and after. Particularly in the build-up, you’ll notice the atmosphere becoming more celebratory. In Hanoi, a lot of things will be shut though in more touristy parts you’ll still find everything you need. It’s an interesting time to visit because the streets will be largely empty, which is completely opposite to the normal hustle and bustle. Temples will still be busy and this was our favourite time of year to visit them.

Personally, if you’re wanting to do more typical touristy travel (lots of public transport, tours, shopping etc), Tet won’t be the most practical as less things will be open/running and may cost more money. As transport is difficult it may be an idea to try and stay in one place for the actual holiday. You’ll likely find private transport but it will be very expensive.

Culturally it is very interesting to experience, so if you can go to HCMC, Hanoi or one of the bigger areas it’s a good place be.

Wow, thank you SO MUCH !! A complete, intelligent and adaptative post, among all those discouraging posts on the web …

I plan to travel in Vietnam too (from mid-january to end of february), but I was really afraid of the Tet period … Thanks to your post (and also the really good one of vietnam-en-profondeur.com), I finally decided I’ll stay in HCMC for the whole second half of january, in order to have an in-depth experience of the Tet atmosphere and the local culture. Indeed it’s not easy to decide you’ll stay two weeks at the same place, when you know there are so many beautiful things to see in this country … But I suppose it’s also a very interesting thing to take the time to really feel things. During the build up time, I hope I’ll manage to meet some locals ; seeking people I could communicate with (learning some basic words of vietnamese too), for a better immersion. As a newcomer foreigner, I guess it will be difficult to really bond and I doubt I could be invited in a local family for the three days of Tet, like you managed it and suggest it 😉 … But you convinced me it’s not so serious : I still could see temples at this very particular moment – and it seems to be quite an intense thing – and explore some quiet streets.

You saved my plans hehe 😉

Hey Sébastien, really glad we could change your mind. Completely agree, staying in one place for a long period is quite a commitment but I think Tet is a worthy cause. Trying to move around would be possible but not easy, but then you wouldn’t be making the most of the travelling aspect or the cultural aspect of Tet.

Yes, definitely try and speak with some of the locals. You could also think about staying in a small, family-run guest house in the run up if you can find one that will be expecting guests. That would be a good way of meeting a local family who then might invite you to join them? Unfortunately, it seems like its a bit of luck getting an invitation. We had friends who had spent years in Vietnam and hadn’t spent Tet with any local families, then we also met travellers who were invited by people they’d met only once.

Even if you don’t, the temples are definitely worth it. Also, I’d suggest arriving to HCMC whilst it’s still busy before the holiday. Then you can really enjoy the contrast when it quietens down.

Enjoy your travels and shoot us any Q’s you have. Would be nice to hear your experiences 🙂

Hey Veggie Vagabonds, thanks a lot for your answer ! I hear your advices. Some vietnamese people warned me north Vietnam is a better place to take advantage of the Tet period : much more traditional and conservative than south (for example, during the Tet, people in HCMC might not run to the temples that much). Thus I’ll finally stay in Hanoï for the two weeks ! I’ll leave the three days of Tet to fate ; with a family or alone, but anyway I’m sure I won’t be bored 🙂 Happy holidays, and I wish you all the best for your adventures !

You’re right, the South does have more Western influences. Good choice on Hanoi, I think you’ll have a great time. Make sure to check out the Quán Sứ Pagoda which is very popular with locals and also the Quang Ba flower market (though I don’t know if it will be open during the holiday). Keep us posted how it all goes 🙂

I’m thinking about trying to take a train from Hue to Da Nang on February 1. Is that during the chaos period of travel? I ask because on that day, I’d try to fly from Da Nang to Phnom Pehn later that day. But if taking a train that normally is 3 hours takes 12 instead, I need to reassess.

Separately, is it even worth going to Hue for two days — Jan 30 – Feb 1 – or is it just too quiet?

Hmm, that will be right in the middle of the holiday period. Have you checked the trains will be running? I don’t think the issue would be it taking longer, I think it could be that it’s either not running or is very expensive. Flights during this time also really go up in price.

Hue is a small town so I think you can explore pretty well in a few days. If it’s running, I’d opt for a train as it’ll likely be cheaper, probably not that much slower and more environmentally friendly 🙂

Have been thinking of visiting Vietnam during this period. Thanks for all the awesome information!

In the week leading up to Tết shops and markets are swarming with people trying to get their shopping before the holiday. In touristy areas some shops stay open however it’s few and far between.

Hey Jennie, yes it can be harder to find shops opening during the festive period. As you say in more popular tourist parts it’s possible. Hope you enjoyed celebrating Tet and the delicious foods on offer 🙂

Thanks this will help me on my travels during Tet.

I’m glad it can be helpful George, let us know if you have any questions. Happy travels!

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A Traveler’s Guide To Vietnam Tet Holiday (Vietnam Lunar New Year)

With the upcoming Lunar New Year, the celebration of the Vietnam Tet holiday will bring forth a captivating blend of ancient customs and modern festivities, painting the towns and cities with colors of joy and reverence.

This blog post is your ticket to unravel the magic of Vietnam’s Tet holiday, offering a glimpse into the cultural significance that defines this auspicious occasion. We’ll be your travel companion, guiding you through the essence of Tet, its traditions, and the best ways to experience this cultural extravaganza. So, fasten your seatbelts and prepare for an unforgettable journey into the heart of Vietnam’s most cherished celebration!

Understanding Vietnam Tet Holiday: Traditions and Customs

Family Gathering Is A Tradition Of Vietnam Tet Holiday

Preparation And Cleaning

Tet, the Vietnamese Lunar New Year, is a tapestry of customs deeply woven into the fabric of Vietnamese society. As the country prepares for this grand celebration, homes buzz with activity. Families engage in meticulous cleaning, transforming their spaces into sanctuaries of freshness and purity. This symbolic cleansing represents bidding farewell to the old year and welcoming the new with a sense of renewal and hope.

Ancestor Worship

Central to Tet is the profound reverence for ancestry. Families come together to honor their forebears through elaborate altars adorned with offerings of fruits, flowers, and symbolic objects. The scent of burning incense fills the air as prayers are whispered, connecting the living with the spirits of the departed. This ritual not only signifies respect for lineage but also emphasizes the continuity of family traditions across generations, reinforcing the importance of heritage.

Tet cuisine, an essential aspect of the celebrations, is a testament to the country’s rich culinary heritage. Traditional delicacies like Banh Chung, a meticulously prepared sticky rice cake symbolizing Earth, and Gio Lua, the heavenly Vietnamese pork roll, are crafted with care and shared among loved ones. Each dish carries deep symbolism, adding layers of meaning to the culinary experience and underscoring the significance of ancestral homage.

The special treat of Tet holiday

Li Xi Customs

Beyond the culinary delights, Tet embodies forgiveness and reconciliation. Debts are settled, and grievances are set aside as communities embrace a spirit of harmony. The giving and receiving of red envelopes, known as Li Xi , containing lucky money, symbolize good fortune and unity. These small gestures of kindness create an atmosphere of joy and anticipation, particularly among children, fostering a sense of community and togetherness.

Best Places to Experience Tet Holiday In Vietnam

Embarking on a Tet journey across Vietnam reveals a multitude of enchanting destinations, each offering a unique and immersive experience.

Colorful streets during Vietnam Tet Holiday

In the heart of the capital city, Vietnam Tet holiday is a symphony of colors and traditions. The Old Quarter comes alive with bustling markets, where locals shop for traditional Tet treats and decorative items. Dragon and lion dance performances captivate onlookers, infusing the air with contagious energy. At the historic Temple of Literature, ancient ceremonies pay homage to scholars and learning, offering a glimpse into Vietnam’s deep respect for education.

The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hoi An casts a spell during Tet. Lantern-lit streets and bustling markets create an enchanting ambiance. Visitors can participate in the tradition of releasing colorful lanterns onto the Thu Bon River, symbolizing hopes and dreams for the future. Historic temples and pagodas host captivating ceremonies, offering travelers a glimpse into the spiritual significance of Tet.

Ho Chi Minh City

Crowded Nguyen Hue Walking Street during Tet

In the bustling southern metropolis of Ho Chi Minh City , Tet is a visual feast. Nguyen Hue Flower Street transforms into a floral wonderland, showcasing meticulously crafted displays and sculptures. The city’s iconic landmarks, such as the Bitexco Financial Tower, illuminate the skyline, creating a magical atmosphere. Firework displays over the Saigon River paint the night sky with vibrant hues, captivating spectators and adding to the festive spirit.

Other Regions

Venturing into rural areas and ethnic minority villages unveils a more intimate Tet experience. In the serene Mekong Delta , floating markets bustle with vendors selling fresh produce and traditional delicacies. In the adventurous Sapa , amid misty mountains, vibrant flowers and traditional costumes worn by local tribespeople create a picturesque backdrop for Tet celebrations.

Must-See Festivals And Events During Vietnam Lunar New Year

Prepare to be captivated by the grandeur of Tet festivals and events taking place across Vietnam. These celebrations offer a glimpse into the heart of Vietnamese culture and the fervor with which Tet is celebrated.

Major Tet Festivals and Fireworks Displays

Cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City host spectacular Tet festivals with colorful parades, traditional music performances, and mesmerizing fireworks displays. These events showcase the country’s rich cultural heritage and provide an unforgettable visual feast.

New Year Firework at the Sword Lake

Local Markets, Flower Festivals, and Pagodas

For a more intimate experience, explore local markets brimming with Tet delights, vibrant flower festivals showcasing intricate floral arrangements, and serene pagodas adorned with traditional decorations. These places offer a glimpse into the everyday life of the locals and the spiritual significance of Tet.

Preparing For Vietnam Tet Holiday: What Travelers Should Know

As you prepare to embark on your Tet adventure, there are some essential travel tips to ensure you make the most out of this vibrant celebration.

Book Accommodations in Advance

• Secure lodging well in advance due to high demand during Tet.
• Consider staying in homestays or boutique hotels for a more intimate cultural experience.
• Research accommodations that offer Tet-related activities or special packages to enhance your celebration.

Plan Transportation Ahead

• Arrange travel plans well in advance to secure seats on buses, trains, or flights, considering potential delays.
• Opt for reputable transportation companies to ensure safety and reliability during the busy travel period.
• Have a backup transportation plan, such as local taxis or rideshare services, in case of unexpected changes in your itinerary.

Indulging in Traditional Tet Dishes

• Do research on the local dishes that you need to try during Vietnam Tet holiday.
• Don’t hesitate to explore local markets and street food stalls, where you can sample Tet specialties like Banh Tet (cylindrical glutinous rice cake) and Xoi (sticky rice).

Pack Wisely

• Pack weather-appropriate clothing, as Tet weather can vary from chilly in the north to warm and humid in the south.
• Bring a lightweight, foldable bag for souvenirs and purchases made during your travels.
• Consider carrying a small medical kit with basic supplies like pain relievers, band-aids, and stomach remedies for emergencies.

Understand Business Closures

• Be aware that many businesses, shops, and restaurants may close temporarily during the Vietnam Tet holiday, especially on Tet Eve and the first day of Tet.
• Plan your dining options, as some local eateries or street food stalls might remain open, offering authentic Tet delicacies.
• Familiarize yourself with the locations of markets, convenience stores, and pharmacies that might stay operational for essential needs.

Respect Local Etiquette

• Dress modestly, especially when visiting temples, pagodas, or local homes, to show respect for Vietnamese customs.
• Learn basic Vietnamese phrases and greetings; even a simple “ Xin chào ” (hello) or “ Cảm ơn ” (thank you) can go a long way in connecting with locals.
• Practice polite behavior, such as covering your mouth when yawning or refraining from public displays of affection, to align with local customs.

Stay Informed About Local Customs

• Engage with the local community by participating in traditional Tet events, like dragon dances or lantern festivals.
• Visit local markets and learn about traditional Tet foods, handicrafts, and customs from vendors and artisans.
• Attend cultural workshops or cooking classes to gain hands-on experience and a deeper understanding of Tet traditions.

By meticulously preparing for Tet with these detailed guidelines, travelers can immerse themselves in the festivities, fostering meaningful connections with the local culture and creating lasting memories of their Vietnam Lunar New Year experience.

>> See Tour: Vietnam Insight

Experience Vietnam Tet Holiday Fully And Exclusively

Unique traveling paths during the Vietnam Tet holiday

Tet is a colorful thread that ties together customs, cuisine, and profound festivities in the fabric of Vietnamese society.

Exploring Vietnam during Tet offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to witness the country’s soul in its purest form. The warmth of family gatherings, the aroma of traditional dishes, and the joy of community festivities create an atmosphere that lingers in your memory long after the celebrations have ended.

So, if you’re considering a visit to Vietnam during Tet, Plan Your Journey with Asia Pioneer Travel immediately. With careful planning and an open heart, our committed travel experts promise to design your Vietnam Tet holiday as an unforgettable chapter in your travel story.

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Tet Holiday 2024: A Guide To Vietnamese Lunar New Year

Table of Contents

About Vietnamese Lunar New Year

If you ask multiple Vietnamese what holiday is most important, Tet is the only answer. Indeed, Tet Holiday has been deeply ingrained in Vietnamese culture for an extended period. It is the foremost New Year celebration in Vietnam, based on the lunisolar calendar.

Tet holiday, featuring a series of activities imbued with distinct national traditions, engages countrywide participation. Its vibrancy and diversity capture the interests of not only the natives but also the foreigners.

Via this travel blog, Culture Pham Travel will give non-native travelers a real insight into this special event.

As a reliable travel agency, we hope to give you a satisfying visit during the Tet holiday with intriguing Vietnam Tours , such as:

• Ha Noi City Tour 1 Day – from 48 USD/ pax
• Ninh Binh Day Trip From Hanoi – from 99 USD/pax
• La Casta Cruise 3 Days 2 Nights – from 690 USD/ pax
• Danang Hue Hoi An Tour (3 days and 2 nights) – from 586 USD/ pax
• Ho Chi Minh City Tour Full Day – from 33 USD/ pax

When Is Tet In Vietnam?

Tet holidays in Vietnam occur on the first day of the first month in the Vietnamese lunar calendar. In the solar calendar, that will be around late January to early February. To be more exact, Tet’s first day never goes before January 21 or after February 20.

For instance, the upcoming Tet Holiday Vietnam 2024 will be on February 10, 2024.

Normally, the Lunar New Year festival in Asian countries (such as China, Korea, Japan, Singapore, Malaysia, etc.) happens on the same date. Yet, there may be differences due to time zone offsets. For example, the Chinese Lunar New Year will be 1 hour or 1 day later than the Vietnamese Lunar New Year.

Interestingly, the Vietnamese usually start Tet preparations two weeks or even a month before, creating a buzzing atmosphere at the spring entrance. Decoration stuff, colorful flowers, abundant foods, fresh fruits, pretty garments, and so on are displayed everywhere. Thus, many foreigners love to visit Vietnam in both the pre-Tet and during-Tet periods to relish the vibes.

Meaning Of Tet Holiday

What reasons behind this unique occasion make everyone so excited about it?

Vietnamese Lunar New Year’s official name, Tết Nguyên Đán , or Tết for short, means ‘the first day of the year festivals.’ The Vietnamese blow into this occasion their own beliefs, traditions, and customs, turning it into a meaningful part of their culture.

The Vietnamese deem Tet holiday a season for beloveds—their families, ancestors, friends, lovers, and even themselves. Tet gives people a chance to break from work and look back on the ones they love.

Family members gather. Descendants worship their ancestors. Relatives visit one another. Friends have hang-outs. Everyone looks cheerful and happy. Thereby, Tet holiday reflects Vietnamese core values and humane mindsets.

Due to such significance, the Vietnamese celebrate the holiday Tet in the most notable ways. They spend all the goods for it: week-long nationwide day-offs, plentiful foods, new clothes, well-decorated homes, and more.

How To Celebrate Tet In Vietnam?

Earliness and newness are top of mind for many Vietnamese when it comes to the Tet holiday. Therefore, the Tet Vietnam holiday is celebrated in accordance with this idea. People clean their homes, put up festive decorations, and go shopping.

Different regions will have different ways of celebrating, but basically, people will make sure these things are done:

Home Cleanup

Before the New Year comes, a comprehensive cleanup is seen far and near. Family members start tidying up everything, from washing mattresses to even repainting the house. In addition to altars and shrines placed in homes, people clean their ancestors’ graves, usually located in cemeteries away from their residences.

Speaking figuratively, people believe this symbolizes the removal of previous bad luck and a welcome to ongoing good fortune. In that way, cleaning right on New Year’s Day, instead of before the New Year, becomes taboo as it is thought to clear out good luck.

Also, home cleanup gives homeowners a sense of fresh start and confidence in welcoming honored guests and relatives dropping by for Tet wishes.

Decorations

Tet holiday Vietnam is well-decorated with colorful items. People usually adorn their homes with five-fruit trays, flowers (commonly cherry blossoms, apricot blossoms, marigolds, and chrysanthemums), New Year trees (usually cây nêu or kumquat trees), folk pictures, spring couplets, etc.

Tet decorations are more and more diverse, but they capture the essence of Tet holiday – merriment and optimism.

Besides households, municipal authorities establish adornments, such as mascot statues, posters, or flowers, in public places. Thus, domestic and international visitors can savor pleasant outdoor hangouts during the Tet holiday.

When referring to Tet holiday, people also use the phrase ăn Tết , which means ‘eat Tet.’ This term expresses the important role of food in Tet celebrations. All the Vietnamese culinary quintessence offers for the Vietnamese Lunar New Year food. Some dishes are seen throughout the year, but some are Tet-only offerings.

If you visit a Vietnamese home during Tet, you will immediately see an eye-catching box put amidst the living room table. It displays flavorful candied fruits, sweets, cookies, and different grains, such as watermelon seeds or hazelnuts.

Yet, they’re just snacks. Normally, the main courses will mainly include bánh chưng , bánh tét , sticky rice, fish sauce-marinated steak (or pork), chả lụa (pork sausage), pickled veggies as side dishes, and so on. Different families will have different choices of food depending on their preferences.

Lunar New Year Vietnamese is the most worthy opportunity for gifts. Everyone gives and receives gifts during Tet season: the old and the young, parents and children, bosses and employees, friends and lovers. Gifts for Tet can be varied according to relationships, purposes, and budgets.

Common gifts are Tet hampers, including various food, fruits, and wines; and lucky money, or lì xì . No Vietnamese kids don’t long for a red envelope with some cash and lovely wishes from the adults. Gift-giving is a beautiful tradition on the Tet Vietnamese holiday as a manifestation of interpersonal affection.

Vietnamese New Year Traditions

With great importance, the Tet holiday in Vietnam features numerous traditions and customs. They vary depending on region, but some are the same throughout the country.

Before-Tet Traditions

Beyond shopping and cleaning up, the Vietnamese maintain offering traditions:

• Last full-moon offering ( cúng rằm tháng Chạp ): It’s the 15th of the last lunar month. Vietnamese people make offerings on the 15th of every lunar month, but the last one is the most important and sumptuous.
• Offering to Kitchen Gods ( cúng ông Công ông Táo ): It occurs on the 23rd of the last lunar month. People will serve the Kitchen Gods offerings and farewell them to heaven.

• Tomb-sweeping : Family members will choose one day from the 23–30th of the last lunar month to visit their ancestors’ graves and do cleanup and decorations. This rewarding tradition shows the respect of descendants for their predecessors.

• Year-end celebration ( cúng tất niên ): It takes place on the 29th or 30th of the last lunar month. Family members gather, prepare food, offer it to ancestors, and have a cozy meal together.
• New Year’s Eve ( giao thừa ): On the threshold of the New Year, there are activities such as cooking bánh chưng together, firework watching, making outdoor and indoor offerings, first-footing ( xông đất ), and praying at temples.

During-Tet Traditions

The Tet festival’s main event is on the first three days, but people can celebrate it for 7 days or more. During these days, good traditions are retained with warm-hearted activities, such as:

• First-footing : Homeowners will invite a close person with matching zodiacs or a nice personality to be their first foot. A good man as a first foot is believed to bring good fortune and prosperity.
• Visiting and greeting : During the holiday, people spend time seeing their relatives and close acquaintances to exchange wishes. This intimate socialization helps enhance relationships among people.
• Lucky money ( lì xì ): Children, and sometimes the elderly, will receive lucky money wrapped in a red and yellow envelope. Red and yellow are believed to bring good luck and chase away evil.

• Go to temples : At Tet, people also tend to visit temples and pagodas to burn some incense, do rituals, and make sincere wishes. In doing so, they hope for blessings from deities.
• Folk entertainment and festivities : Tet is the time for energetic traditional games and art performances, such as blind man’s buff; lion dances; bội , cải lương , and chèo singing; boat races; wrestling; gambling games like bài chòi , lắc bầu cua , French-suited cards; etc.

Vietnamese Zodiacs

Some Asian countries, including Vietnam, follow a 12-year-cycle lunar calendar based on 12 animals with particular attributes. Each animal represents a year, which has a deep connection to native philosophy and beliefs.

Here’s an example of the Vietnamese Lunar New Year animals in 12 years, by the traditional order:

• Tý – Rat: 2020
• Sửu – Buffalo: 2021 (Ox in China, Korea, and Japan)
• Dần – Tiger: 2022
• Mão – Cat: 2023 (Rabbit in China, Korea, and Japan)
• Thìn – Dragon: 2024
• Tỵ – Snake: 2025
• Ngọ – Horse: 2026
• Mùi – Goat: 2027
• Thân – Monkey: 2028
• Dậu – Chicken: 2029
• Tuất – Dog: 2030
• Hợi – Pig: 2031

Tet Greetings

As mentioned above, greeting is one of the main traditions of Vietnam holiday Tet. Thus, you might be curious about how to say Happy Lunar New Year in Vietnamese. See some common Tet greetings as follows:

• Chúc mừng năm mới (Happy New Year)
• Cung chúc tân xuân (Sincere wishes for a new spring)
• Sống lâu trăm tuổi (Wish you a hundred-year longevity; usually aimed at the elderly)
• An khang thịnh vượng (Wish you good health and prosperity)
• Vạn sự như ý (A myriad things go according)
• Hay ăn chóng lớn (Eat well, grow well; usually aimed at children)
• Làm ăn tấn tới (May you be successful at work)
• Tiền vô như nước (May wealth pour in like water)

Best Place To Celebrate New Year In Vietnam

Vietnamese Lunar New Year is an exceptional nationwide festival that offers great excitement to everyone, including foreign tourists. To savor the most lively ambiance, foreigners who want to celebrate New Year’s Eve and Tet holiday in Vietnam should opt for big cities or beach resorts. Several good recommendations are:

• Ho Chi Minh City : accommodations and restaurants open during Tet; firework events (Sai Gon River); festivities throughout Tet (e.g. the Duc Thanh Tran Temple Festival)
• Hanoi : accommodations open during Tet are available; there are countdown and firework spaces (around Hoan Kiem Lake); visitors can see various relics in Tet theme and folk festivals (e.g. Perfume Pagoda Festival, Dong Da Festival)
• Halong Bay : dinner cruise on New Year’s Eve (Ambassador Cruise) as the best feature; intriguing traditional festivities in the city
• Phu Quoc : sufficient facilities for tourists (hotels, restaurants, new attractions) available during Tet; stunning beach views; many local Tet festivals to see (e.g. Dinh Ba Ong Lang Festival)
• Hoi An : accommodations during Tet and fireworks available; tasty local dishes for Tet; vintage atmosphere imbued with traditional Tet; folk festivals (e.g. Nguyen Tieu Festival)
• Nha Trang : impressive coastal scenery; ample visitor amenities (hotels, restaurants, and attractions) accessible during Tet; local Tet celebrations to attend

Again, the Vietnamese Lunar New Year is celebrated throughout Vietnam. That means any place can offer a great insight into the native Tet culture to contemplate. If you have a preferred place in mind, don’t hesitate to choose it.

In short, Tet holiday in Vietnam is an incredibly significant event that holds deep cultural and traditional values. It’s a cozy occasion for Vietnamese people to gather around their beloveds, show respect to their ancestors, and celebrate a hopeful new year.

From the vibrant decorations to the delicious traditional foods, Tet is a truly unique and special experience that visitors to Vietnam should not miss. By embracing the customs and traditions of Tet, travelers can gain a deeper understanding of Vietnamese culture and create unforgettable memories.

So, mark your calendars for the upcoming Tet holiday in 2024 and experience the magic of this extraordinary celebration in Vietnam. We hope that our blog provides you with considerable insight into the Vietnamese Lunar New Year. Thanks for reading .

Culture Pham Travel

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Vietnamese New Year 101 | A Guide To Tet Nguyen Dan

Welcome to the colorful and heartfelt celebration of Vietnamese New Year, known as Tet Nguyen Dan. This annual festival, deeply rooted in tradition, signifies the start of a new lunar year in Vietnam. In this article, we’ll explore the customs, culinary traditions, and the heartfelt significance of Tet, offering you a deeper understanding of this cherished holiday.

Tet is a time for Vietnamese families to come together, express gratitude, and seek blessings for the year ahead. Through this article, we aim to provide valuable insights into the customs, rituals, and delicious dishes that make Tet a special and heartwarming celebration. Join us in discovering the Down to Earth and helpful aspects of Vietnamese New Year.

What Is Vietnamese Tet?

Vietnamese Tet (Tết Nguyên Đán), also known as the Lunar New Year, is the most important holiday in Vietnam. It is a time for families to reunite, honor their ancestors, and pray for good luck and prosperity in the new year. Tet is celebrated on the first day of the Lunar New Year, which typically falls in late January or early February.

Tet is a week-long holiday, but celebrations can last for up to two weeks. The first day of Tet is the most important day and is marked by family gatherings, feasting, and temple visits.

Traditions And Celebrations

In the weeks leading up to Tet, people clean their homes and businesses and prepare traditional foods and drinks. On New Year’s Eve, families gather together for a large feast, called cỗ Tết. This feast typically includes traditional Vietnamese dishes such as sticky rice cake, spring rolls, and bánh chưng (a square glutinous sticky rice cake filled with pork, green beans, and mung beans).

After the feast, families visit their ancestors’ graves to pay their respects and wish them a happy new year. They also visit temples to pray for good luck in the new year.

On New Year’s Day, people wake up early to exchange gifts and greetings with their loved ones. They also visit neighbors and friends to wish them a happy new year and play traditional games.

Different Ways Of Celebrating Tet

Tet is celebrated in different ways in different parts of Vietnam. In the north, Tet is a more traditional holiday, with a focus on honoring ancestors and celebrating the new year. In the south, Tet is a more festive holiday, with a focus on family members and feasting.

When Is Vietnam Tet In 2024?

Vietnamese Tet in 2024 will be on Saturday, February 10, which is the first day in the Vietnamese lunar calendar. It will be the Year of the Dragon, the fifth animal in the 12-year Vietnamese zodiac cycle.

The Dragon is a powerful and auspicious animal in Vietnamese culture. It is associated with strength, courage, and leadership. People who are born in the Year of the Dragon are said to be confident, ambitious, and successful.

Tet is a week-long holiday in Vietnam, but celebrations can last for up to two weeks. The first day of Tet in the Vietnamese lunar calendar is the most important day and is marked by family gatherings, feasting, and temple visits.

Where To Celebrate Tet In Vietnam?

Tet is celebrated all over Vietnam, but there are a few places where the festivities are particularly vibrant and colorful.

Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City, also known as Saigon, is the largest city in Vietnam and a popular tourist destination. Tet is celebrated with great fanfare, colorful flower markets, street fairs, and temple Tet festival.

Some of the best places to celebrate Tet in Ho Chi Minh City include:

• Nguyen Hue Flower Street: This street is transformed into a sea of flowers during Tet, with vendors selling all kinds of flowers and plants. It’s a great place to soak up the Tet atmosphere and take some photos.
• Vinh Nghiem Pagoda: This pagoda is one of the most popular Buddhist temples in Ho Chi Minh City, and it’s a great place to experience Tet traditions such as praying for good luck and visiting the ancestors’ graves.

Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is another popular destination for Tet celebrations. The city is known for its well-preserved Old Quarter, which is especially atmospheric during Tet.

Some of the best places to celebrate Tet in Hanoi include:

• Van Mieu Quoc Tu Giam (Temple of Literature): This temple is dedicated to Confucius, and it’s a popular spot for students to come and pray for good luck in their exams.
• Bat Trang Ceramic Village: This village is located just outside of Hanoi, and it’s a great place to buy traditional Vietnamese ceramics.

Hoi An is a charming ancient town in central Vietnam. It’s known for its well-preserved Old Town, its colorful lanterns, and its delicious food.

Some of the best places to celebrate Tet in Hoi An include:

• Japanese Covered Bridge: This iconic bridge is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Hoi An, and it’s especially beautiful at night when it’s lit up with Vietnamese traditional lanterns.
• Phung Hung Ancient House: This traditional Vietnamese house is a great place to learn about culture and Tet traditions.

Mekong Delta

The Mekong Delta is a vast network of rivers and canals in southern Vietnam. It’s known for its floating markets, its fruit orchards, and its laid-back atmosphere.

Some of the best places to celebrate Tet in the Mekong Delta include:

• Cai Rang Floating Market: This floating market is one of the largest and most popular in Vietnam. It’s a great place to experience the local culture and to try some delicious Vietnamese food.
• Tra Vinh Province: This province is home to a large Khmer minority, and it’s a great place to experience Khmer culture and Tet traditions.

Top Things To Do During Vietnamese New Year

Here are some of the most popular things to do during Tet:

Cleaning and shopping before Tet: In the weeks leading up to Tet, family members clean their homes and businesses and prepare special foods and drinks. They also go shopping for new clothes, gifts, and decorations.

Give lucky money: On New Year’s Day, adults give children and unmarried adults lucky money (lì xì) in red envelopes. This is a symbol of good luck and prosperity in the new year.

Visit temples and pagodas: Vietnamese families visit temples and pagodas on New Year’s Day to pray for good luck and prosperity in the new year.

Attend traditional performances: Traditional music and dance performances are held in many places during Tet.

Visit family and friends: Tet is a time for families and friends to reunite. People visit each other’s homes to exchange greetings, eat together, and play games.

How To Say Happy New Year In Vietnamese?

The most common way to say Happy New Year in Vietnamese is “Chúc mừng năm mới”. It literally means “wish for a new year.” You can also say “Cung hỉ phát tài”, which means “congratulations and be prosperous.”

You can also add a personal touch to your greeting by including the recipient’s name. For example, you could say “Chúc mừng năm mới, anh/chị [name]” to wish a happy new year to an older person, or “Chúc mừng năm mới, em [name]” to wish a happy new year to a younger person.

Travel Tips During Vietnamese New Year

If you are planning to visit Vietnam during Tet, there are a few things you should keep in mind. Here are some travel tips to help you have a safe and enjoyable trip:

Accommodation

Tet is a popular time to travel in Vietnam, so it’s important to book your accommodation well in advance. Prices for hotels and guesthouses are typically higher during Tet, so it’s a good idea to budget accordingly.

If you’re having trouble finding accommodation in popular tourist destinations, consider staying in a smaller town or village. You’ll likely find better deals and get to experience a more authentic Tet festival celebration.

Transportation

Transportation can be difficult during Tet, as many people are traveling home to spend Tet festival with their families. It’s important to book your tickets for buses, trains, and flights in advance.

If you’re renting a motorbike or car, be prepared for heavy traffic and delays. It’s also a good idea to have a backup plan in case your transportation is canceled.

Tet is generally a safe time to travel in Vietnam, but it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against petty theft. Be especially careful in crowded areas and at night.

It’s also a good idea to avoid traveling in remote areas during Tet, as some businesses and services may be closed.

Participating In Tet Customs

Tourists are welcome to participate in Tet celebrations, but it’s important to do so respectfully. Here are a few tips:

• Dress appropriately. Vietnamese people typically wear red or gold clothing during Tet, as these colors are considered auspicious. It’s best to avoid wearing black or white, as these colors are associated with mourning.
• Be respectful of religious and cultural traditions. Many Vietnamese people visit temples and pagodas during Tet to pray for good luck in the new year. If you visit a temple, be sure to dress respectfully and remove your shoes before entering.

Here are some specific ways that tourists can participate in Tet customs:

• Give lucky money. On New Year’s Day, adults give children and unmarried adults lucky money (lì xì) in red envelopes. This is a symbol of good luck and prosperity in the new year. If you’re given lucky money, be sure to say thank you and wish the person a happy new year.
• Visit a temple or pagoda. Visiting a temple or pagoda during Tet is a great way to experience the culture and traditions in Vietnam. Be sure to dress respectfully and remove your shoes before entering.
• Watch a traditional performance. Traditional music and dance performances are held in many places during Tet. Attending a performance is a great way to learn about the spring festival and enjoy the festive atmosphere.

Some Taboos At Tet Festival

It’s inadvisable to clean your room or cut your nails, and don’t break anything on and after several days of Tet Day.

There are a few taboos that Vietnamese people avoid during Tet, including:

• Cleaning the house: Cleaning the house on Tet Day is believed to sweep away good luck and prosperity in the Vietnamese New Year.
• Cutting nails or hair: Cutting nails or hair on Tet Day is believed to cut short your lifespan or bring bad luck.
• Breaking things: Breaking things on Tet Day is believed to bring bad luck to the family.
• Saying unlucky words: Vietnamese people avoid saying unlucky words during Tet, such as death, disease, or poverty.
• Lending or borrowing money: Lending or borrowing money on Tet Day is believed to bring financial hardship in the Vietnamese New Year.

Try Not to Bargain

Local people believe bargaining during the important festival would bring about bad luck for the whole coming year.

It is generally considered taboo to bargain during Tet in Vietnam. This is because bargaining is seen as a sign of greed and materialism, which are not considered auspicious during the holiday season.

There are a few reasons why Vietnamese people believe that bargaining during Tet brings bad luck. First, it is believed that bargaining can upset the balance of the universe and lead to misfortune in the new year. Second, it is seen as disrespectful to the sellers, who are working hard to make a living during the holiday season. Third, it is believed that bargaining can jinx the buyer, leading to financial hardship in the new year.

If you are visiting Vietnam during Tet, it is best to avoid bargaining altogether. If you are unsure of the price of something, simply ask the seller. They will be happy to tell you the price.

Carry Enough Cash

Banks will be closed for the holiday, so prepare as much cash as possible ahead of time.

it is important to carry enough cash during Tet in Vietnam, as banks and many businesses will be closed for the holiday. ATMs may also be out of cash during this time.

It is a good idea to budget for your expenses in advance and to exchange your currency for Vietnamese dong before you travel. You can exchange your currency at banks, currency exchange bureaus, and even some hotels.

Traffic Conditions

There will be heavy traffic in most cities during New Year’s Eve. Flights, buses, and trains will be very busy, so make sure to book the tickets weeks ahead. Many places will be filled with crowds. It’s a good idea to stay in one place until the crowd gradually goes away.

Traffic conditions can be very difficult during Tet in Vietnam. This is because many people are traveling home to spend the Tet Nguyen Dan with their families. Flights, buses, and trains are typically very busy during this time, so it is important to book your tickets well in advance.

Hotel Reservations

Hotel reservations will fill up fast before Tet, so booking a hotel early is essential for better accommodations at a reasonable price.

It is essential to book a hotel early before Tet in Vietnam, as hotel reservations fill up fast. Tet is the most popular holiday in Vietnam, and many people travel home to spend New Year’s Eve with their families. This means that there is a high demand for hotel rooms during Tet.

Is Tet A Good Time To Visit Vietnam?

Tet is the most important festival in traditional Vietnamese culture. It is a time for families and friends to reunite, celebrate the Vietnamese New Year, and pray for good luck and prosperity. Tet is also a time to reflect on the past year and to look forward to the future with hope.

If you are visiting Vietnam during Tet Nguyen Dan, you can immerse yourself in the unique experience of this holiday. There are many ways to do this, such as: visiting temples and pagodas to pray for good luck, attending traditional Tet performances, enjoying traditional Tet food, giving and receiving lucky money (lì xì), visiting friends and family to wish them happy new year.

Tet Nguyen Dan is a truly special time of year in Vietnam, and it is an experience that you will never forget. Be open to new experiences. Tet is a time for celebration and for trying new things. Don’t be afraid to try new foods, visit new places, and meet new people.

Ready For Vietnamese New Year Festival?

In wrapping up our journey through Vietnamese New Year, or Tet, let’s remember that it’s more than just traditions and celebrations. It’s a time for family, reflection, and hope. It’s about coming together, sharing love, and savoring delicious food.

Whether you’re in Vietnam or far away, the spirit of Tet is universal – it’s about renewal and optimism. So, let’s all cherish our connections, embrace new beginnings, and look forward to a bright year ahead. Wishing you a joyous and prosperous Vietnamese New Year, filled with love and good fortune. Chuc Mung Nam Moi! (Happy New Year!)

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Ultimate Guide to traveling to Vietnam during Tet holiday

Tet in Vietnam or Lunar New Year seems the most beautiful scene of the year. However, is it attractive for ex-pats to travel here at this time? Let’s follow the ultimate guide below!

To Vietnamese, Tet Nguyen Dan is the most important ritual of the year. It’s the time when all people set aside business and gather with family for cozy meals.

It’s said that Vietnamese work hard during the whole year for only a plentiful Tet. That’s why Tet is also the occasion for shopping and renewing houses.

The three main days of Tet Nguyen Dan are the most meaningful days for the Vietnamese family. They are busy with happiness; children play around with worry-free schools.

However, it seems only exciting for natives. Will Travelers to Vietnam at this time feel excited?

If you are still confused, let’s follow our ultimate guide for traveling to Vietnam during the Tet holiday

Table of Contents

When does the Vietnamese lunar new year come into town?

Tet Nguyen Dan usually falls in February, when spring is in the middle and flowers blossom everywhere.

There is no fixed time to tell, but you can check on the lunar calendar.

Moon calendar is only accessible for Asian countries like Vietnam or China where we have a Tet holiday. You can check the time for Tet from this calendar

At this time of the year, it’s a bit cold and windy. The ideal weather for Tet is drizzle. We sense the fruitful and multiply atmosphere surroundings.

However, Vietnamese people no longer feel breezing at Tet because the earth is warming. But spring rain at Tet and peach blossom still signal these special occasions.

People start to celebrate Tet holiday from 23th of December to the middle of January according to the Lunar calendar.

When Tet comes, people start to arrange their job and take a week off. Every family will have to lot to do to get ready for New Year’s Eve and the holiday.

What do we actually do?

Tet’s timeline

Let’s check out the traditional schedule for Tet.

Kitchen God day

On the 23 rd of Lunar December, it’s time for Kitchen God day. Vietnamese people believe in three Gods in the kitchen refers to an old story. Their job is to watch people’s live the whole year and report it to the king of Heaven on this day annually.

What to do?

It’s said that three Kitchen gods travel to heaven by carp. Thus, on this day, on the market, we see a huge amount of carp for sale in different sizes. People will use God’s paper cloth, too. In recent years, paper carp are made for sale so that even busy people can perform the ritual.

Each family will prepare a feast, carp, and paper cloth at lunchtime. They pray to Kitchen gods and wish them safe traveling.

After praying, they will liberate the fish nearby and set the paper cloth on fire. It’s another ritual that people use to send their offerings to God.

The new year Eve

Seven days after the Kitchen God day, people come into the most crucial time in Tet. They prepare for the last day of the year.

On this day, people have to calculate foods for the upcoming two days because the market will close after New Year Eve.

The biggest feast is well prepared. Every corner in the house gets cleaned. Kumquat trees and flowers are set.

People wait for the last seconds. People will go to the pagodas for the last time to wish the best for the new year. Thus, travelers to Vietnam see the busiest day at pagodas and markets. You will see streets of kumquat, peach, and Plum flowers. The city is buried in the sound of bells and talking. All stations and airports will be full of people.

At night, people gather on the streets or house to wait for Eve. When fireworks bright up the sky all over the country, it’s time we turn into a new year in the Asian way. The Elderly set up a tray of fruits, liquor, and incense to pray for a happy new year. Youngsters return to their house in happiness and hope.

After new year Eve

It’s the morning after Eve. The street is almost empty in the morning. More people will go out in the evening but not as many as usual.

People spend time cooking and visiting relatives. Usually, they will wait for the first person who steps in the gate with the feast and best wishes.

After they welcome that person, they will start to go outside and visit others. Traditionally, younger people will come to the houses of the older in the family.

They will enjoy time at home with drinks and food. All are set, and people spend their whole time with family and friends in the next three days.

Vietnamese people seem to have a lot to do these days. They have fun because this time is only with their families.

How about Travelers to Vietnam. They do not have rituals to follow and relatives to visit.

How could ex-pats continue their traveling to Vietnam during Tet days?

What do ex-pats expect about traveling to Vietnam during the Tet holiday?

Being a Traveler to Vietnam at Tet might be lucky or not. The key is about how to enjoy your time. Being in Vietnam at this time, you are witnessing the most traditional cultural color of Vietnam in a thousand years.

However, everything will not happen as usual on days. You are experiencing differently from what Lonely Planet dictates. Every year, Tet is another picture.

The crowded street before Eve

If you land in Vietnam on the days before New year’s Eve, there are more to explore. You will enjoy the festive atmosphere on the streets and restaurants. All shopping malls and stores are at the peak of sale.

The streets wear new decorations. All of the city will blossom in flowers, laughs, and happiness.

However, if you plan to take trips across provinces, book tickets in advance. Before New Year Eve, people will rush for train and flight tickets to their hometown. Thus, all of the boarding passes are expensive.

Worse, you cannot even find a spare ticket because it’s out of stock.

Believe us; you do not want to lock in the same city until Tet is over.

Empty street after Eve

After Eve, as mentioned above, people barely come out of their house. There is no traffic jam which sounds great because you are not prepared for crazy traffic in Vietnam yet.

Because the streets are empty, you can enjoy spots around Vietnam in comfort. Some places in Dalat, Sapa, beaches or big cities are usually full of crowds, but not at Tet.

In big cities, there are still buses running around. It’s such a valuable time with public transportation in Vietnam because they are all overloaded every day of the year except Tet.

To travel around, make sure that you have got maps and enough food. The most practical vehicle in Vietnam is the motorcycle. Let’s hire one if you want to cruise every corner of the city.

You must check the websites for your destination to ensure that it’s opened during the holiday.

Closed restaurants and malls

People will not fill the street at 8 a.m to offices or schools. As a result, all entertainment parks, shopping centers, and restaurants are closed.

Luckily, you can have meals at homestay or hotels where you live. Make sure that you made the reservation.

Vietnam is famous for street vendors and favorite street foods. However, you cannot enjoy these specialties while traveling to Vietnam during Tet holiday.

Transportation

Public transport.

Public transport in Vietnam is buses. Payment for tickets will not rise. However, you should expect fewer routes a day.

Traveling by motorbikes is possible for anyone. Hiring a scooter in the city costs about 200,000 dongs per day for 2 million for two weeks. It’s convenient and mobile for a couple or solo Travelers.

Flights and trains

Airports and stations are flooded before and after Tet. Some people in Vietnam want to take advantage of the long holiday to travel. In general, flying during special occasions like Tet costs a fortune. However, it’s the most convenient and fastest vehicle to make a move in a short vacation.

Tickets for trains climb up, too. However, they are still much cheaper than flight boarding passes. It’s also the reason why the train becomes full of reservation very fast.

It’s entirely possible to travel along with Vietnam by train and bus. However, schedules during the Tet might change slightly. Plan your route at least one month in advance and make the reservation for rooms and coaches as soon as possible. Besides, the price might be lower.

Read more about transport in Vietnam here .

If you are invited for a feast by a Vietnamese family on this occasion, it’s such a blessing to your trip. In the meals of the new year, traditional cuisines are spreading over the table.

The specialty is Chung cake which is made from sticky rice. Other dishes are spring rolls, Vietnamese sausages with mushrooms, soup, salad, and many other offers. You will have a snack with dried and sugared fruits.

However, the meals are full of meat. If you are not yet used to Vietnamese recipes, you might get fed up with the menu soon.

You might rarely find these dishes at western restaurants even during the vacation. Each region in Vietnam has its own specialty for Tet. Each food keeps meaning.

What should ex-pat do while traveling to Vietnam during Tet holiday?

Based on the situation, should you travel to Vietnam during Tet holiday?

If you think it could be tedious and expensive day-offs, we could say the reverse.

Let’s enjoy the Tet in style!

Before New Year’s Eve- Tet’s exploration

We highly recommend an adventure through days before New Year’s Eve. It’s no time of the year when you could feel the atmosphere and smell a pleasant aroma like this. It’s only once a year, even to Vietnamese people who still feel excited when this occasion knocks on the door.

Let’s spend the time walking around local markets. In Hanoi, we have Dong Xuan market and Ben Thanh market in Sai Gon. You might find a lot of shopping malls releasing sale programs for the festival. Nevertheless, the local markets are the best place to watch flowers, bonsai, and breathe in Tet air.

You will see children following their parents to fashion shops for new cloth. Middle-aged men rush for the last shipping orders. Candies and sugared fruits are all in front of any shops.

It’s another atmosphere from daily business. Everyone seems busier within rush and smiles.

Places to travel in Vietnam during Tet Holiday

There are some destinations where you can enjoy Tet holiday in Vietnam if the City bores you with empty streets.

At stations or airports, you might see touching scenes when people reunite. People step off the trains with loads of presents. The whole country floods in emotions, crying and laughing.

Hoi An Old Town

Hoi An is an ancient town in the middle of Vietnam. It’s not only Tet, but any time of the year, you can sense the tradition here. Hoi An with a 24/7 homestay and an open street welcomes any ex-pats to come and enjoy the Tet of Vietnam.

At Hoi An, there is still that atmosphere, but this small street will bring you more joy. Most stores are still open during the Tet holiday, and people go down the road as usual.

From the Old town, you can reach Danang city and many other spots nearby by bus. Renting motorbikes here is cheap and comfortable, but the price might rise during the vacation.

See our Hoi An Food tour here .

Sapa reflects the highest mountainous area in Vietnam where it’s the coldest place to travel. At Sapa, you will immerse in the festive scene with native people. Sapa is the home for ethnic groups in Vietnam where it performs the Tet holiday differently.

Reaching Sapa from Hanoi by bus or train is easy. Routes are every day so you are not worried about out-of-tickets.

At Sapa, you have chances to enjoy the fantastic view from The Indochina’s rooftop – The Fansipan mount.

Unlike Sapa, Dalat is softer for busy Tet. At Dalat at this time, you will be surprised with colorful flowers all over the city.

Many spots in Dalat ask you to queue to check-in, now during the Tet; it’s all released. We can reach Dalat by flights or buses. However, the flight tickets would be extremely costly during the vacation.

Do you have your decision yet?

During the Lunar New year in Vietnam, Travelers might be confused about everything. When the country welcomes New Year differently from the world, it’s no doubt that ex-pats feel lost.

However, by the ultimate guide for traveling to Vietnam during the Tet holiday above, we hope that you have turned your hesitation into determination to fight here. Let’s explore our country through another lens.

Check more about Top Things to do in Ho Chi Minh city

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Celebrate Tet Like a Local in Vietnam

Karl Johaentges / Getty Images

Tet Nguyen Dan, Vietnamese New Year, adheres to the same lunar calendar that governs Chinese New Year . In fact, many of the celebratory traditions (lion dances, feasts, and fireworks, namely) are the same.

Tet Nguyen Dan translates literally to "the first morning of the first day of the new year." This day varies by the year but is always in either January or February. The Vietnamese consider Tet to be the most important in their considerable festival lineup . Family members travel from across the country to spend the holiday in each other's company. Foreign visitors can and do join in on the fun.

How the Vietnamese Celebrate Tet

Long before Tet, the Vietnamese begin trying to get rid of any bad fortune by cleaning their homes, buying new clothes , resolving disputes, and paying their debts. They burn gold leaf paper and offer up live carp to the Kitchen God, who is said to visit everyone's family on this day and report back to the Jade Emperor.

Tet is a time for paying tribute to ancestors. Each day for the duration of the week of New Year, offerings are placed on the household altar and incense is burned in memory of the departed. Locals purchase peach blossoms and kumquat trees and place them around the house. These plants are iconic in Tet folklore, symbolizing prosperity and health.

On the day of Tet, families lay out a splendid feast of bánh tét (sticky rice and mung bean "cake"), củ kiệu tôm khô (pickled scallion heads), and thịt kho hột vịt (pork braised with eggs). Family and friends visit each other before going off to their respective places of worship (Christian or Buddhist ) to pray for the year to come.

As the Tet holiday unfolds, people offer warm greetings of “ Chúc Mừng Năm Mới ” ("Happy New Year") to everyone they meet. (The tones of the Vietnamese language are hard to catch if you’re not a local.)

Tet in Hanoi

The Vietnamese capital is one of the best places for tourists to celebrate Tet. On the week before the holiday, locals go to the Quang Ba Flower Market to pick up pink peach boughs to help bring luck to their households.

• At the stroke of midnight, fireworks erupt throughout Hanoi, including at Thong Nhat Park, Van Quan Lake, Lac Long Quan Flower Garden, My Dinh Stadium, and Hoan Kiem Lake .
• On the fifth day, Hanoi citizens flock to Dong Da Hill for the Dong Da Festival, which commemorates a victory over invading Chinese forces (the hills in the area are actually burial mounds, covering the remains of over 200,000 Chinese soldiers buried on the battlefield).
• On the sixth day, the Co Loa Citadel sees a traditional procession by costumed locals. Nowadays, civilians march in the parade instead of the former military officials and government mandarins.
• Finally, a calligraphy festival takes place all throughout Tet on the grounds of the Temple of Literature in old Hanoi. Calligraphers called ong do set up shop in about a hundred booths, brushes in hand, writing auspicious Chinese characters for paying customers.
• In the Old Quarter , makeshift altars crowd the sidewalks, propitiating the Kitchen God with offerings of meat and fruit. Many of the shops in the Old Quarter have catered to generations of families: Quoc Huong on Hang Bong Street, for example, has sold banh chung cakes for Tet for over 200 years.

Tet in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

The mass of motorcycles jamming Ho Chi Minh City doesn't go away during Tet, but parts of the city explode in color during the week-long festival.

• The flower festival along Nguyen Hue Walking Street transforms this pedestrianized boulevard into a flower-themed carnival, replete with blossom-shaped displays, artwork and light shows. Selfies with the flower installations are permitted (nay, encouraged!).
• At midnight, fireworks shows ignite at six areas across the city: the Thu Thiem Tunnel, Dam Sen Park, Cu Chi Tunnels in Cu Chi District , Rung Sac Square in Can Gio District, Lang Le-Bau Co historical site, and the Nga Ba Giong Memorial.
• In District 8, Tau Hu Canal becomes the site of a flower market, with blossoms and ornamental trees sourced from the nearby provinces of Tien Giang and Ben Tre.
• In District 1, a book festival takes place from the first to the fourth day of Tet along the streets of Mac Thi Buoi, Nguyen Hue, and Ngo Duc Ke. Thousands of books and magazines will change hands during the festival.
• In District 5, Cholon (Vietnam's traditional Chinatown) offers both color and flavor in excess. As you admire the flowers and decorations adorning the area's temples, take a chance on local, Tet-only foods like xoi (colored sticky rice cakes).

The Hue imperial citadel, located in the former royal capital of Hue , has seen a renaissance of royal-era traditions. The most significant is the raising of the cay neu , or Tet pole, on the palace grounds.

The cay neu repeats itself as a traditional bamboo plant in millions of Vietnamese homes, but the one in the Hue citadel is the biggest and flashiest. The first cay neu was traditionally first set up by the Buddha to drive away evil monsters.

An elaborate ceremony raises the Tet pole on the first day of the holiday. The process is repeated on the seventh and the last day, marking the end of Tet. In olden times, Hue residents would take their cue from the palace ceremonies to set up and take down their own cay neu at home.

Hue celebrates Tet in many other ways, among them:

• Flower markets flourish along the Huong River promenade, Nghinh Luong Dinh Park, and Nguyen Dinh Chieu Walking Street.
• Paper flowers from Thanh Tien Village are a popular Hue Tet product, having been made in this village for over 400 years. Craftsmen use colored paper, bamboo, and cassava to create these artificial blossoms that look even better than the real thing.
• Fireworks light up the sky above the imperial citadel at midnight of Tet Eve.
• Restaurants and bars along Hue’s backpacker streets will remain open throughout the Tet holidays, serving both rustic Central Vietnam food and high Imperial cuisine.

Tet in Hoi An

This throwback town on the Thu Bon River leverages its centuries-old infrastructure and old-school culture to make its Tet celebrations unique among Vietnam tourist stops. You can take in the Tet spirit just walking or cycling down the Old Quarter, but there are special events and activities to partake in, too.

• Fireworks on Tet Eve will kick off the local New Year, lighting up the skies above the ancient town at the stroke of midnight.
• A boat racing competition takes place on the second day of Tet to honor the Water God. Individual teams from Hoi An’s different wards compete in a boat race on the Hoai River, a tributary of the bigger Thu Bon waterway. Locals spritz water on the passing boat teams for good luck.
• A lantern festival takes place for one week from the beginning of Tet, illuminating the ancient quarter from An Hoi Bridge to Hoai River Square. Visitors also enjoy free outdoor musical performances, lantern-making workshops and a lantern parade down the streets.
• Bai choi folk singing exhibitions show off a UNESCO-recognized cultural heritage art form, transforming the An Hoi Sculpture Garden into a showcase of traditional Central Vietnam choral music.

Is It Safe (or Cheap) to Travel During Tet?

Tet is a great time to see Vietnam at its most colorful, especially in the cities of Hue, Hanoi, and Ho Chi Minh City. However, reservations fill up fast and transportation before and after Tet is unreliable. Beware that many tourist spots will be closed for several days between Tet.

The best option is to commit to staying in one place while the rush dies down. But don't take it personally that prices will be inflated to the maximum throughout this holiday; even the locals will be paying more, too.

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• Tet: Tradition, Reunion & Taste

Tet Nguyen Dan (Festival of the First Morning of the First Day) may be the official title for the Vietnamese Lunar New Year. But when in Vietnam, all you need to know is: Tet. 

Tet, which often falls in late January or early February, is the most significant holiday on the Vietnamese calendar since it is the day for reunion, hope and luck.

The Vietnamese penchant to party is on full-display during Tet and the countdown to midnight typically starts a week in advance.

Tet is steeped in pageantry, filial recognition and quite a bit of superstition. In preparation for the New Year, families clean their homes - top to bottom. Something of a ritualistic spring cleaning, only with an organized diligence not often found in the West. Not only are homes tidied, people clean up (haircuts, new clothes) and outstanding debts are paid - the slate is cleaned, so-to-speak. 

Decorative plants, trees and flowers abound. Peach, apricot and plum blossoms - kumquat trees bearing their orange fruit. Homes and storefronts are ablaze in chrysanthemums, marigolds and white daffodils.

In the past, Vietnamese people displayed cay neu - a long bamboo pole, stripped of its leaves and often wrapped in red (red being a sign of good luck) at home during Tet. Cay neu is decorated with flags and various ornaments in order to ward off evil spirits and chase away any lingering bad luck of the previous year. So important is cay neu, that its removal signifies the finale of this extended New Year celebration. This ritual is still preserved and reenacted in traditional festivals nowadays in Viet Nam.

If you’re visiting Viet Nam during Tet, you’ll witness the hustle and bustle - the good cheer on the streets. The holiday resembles a parade in full-swing, whether you’re in the city or the countryside. Tet invigorates and inspires the Vietnamese and the celebratory mood and pageantry are on display for many days leading up to the actual New Year. 

For most Vietnamese, Tet is an opportunity for family reunions (many businesses close for the week as people return to their hometowns). Every home has an altar for honoring ancestors, and families flock to the gravesites of deceased loved ones, bearing flowers, incense and gifts.

The first day of Tet is reserved for intimate families. It’s the day when elders reign supreme and youngster’s receive envelopes filled with “Lucky Money.” Day one also involves a ritual of great importance. It is said, the first person to enter a house on New Year’s Day, symbolizes how the rest of the year will unfold. To circumvent any unforeseen surprises, an honored or successful family member is often invited to be the first to visit. Let’s put it this way: people don’t just “drop-in” on the first day of Tet—there’s a lot hanging in the balance! And speaking of superstitions, while a thorough house cleaning prior to Tet is de rigueur, you won’t find any brooms in operation during the actual holiday itself—one must avoid the risk of sweeping away good luck.

On day two, people typically travel to visit friends and relatives—a parade of revelry that goes door-to-door, block-to-block and throughout neighborhoods and communities.

Day three is for teachers (a greatly honored caste). It’s not uncommon to find classmates grouping to visit their teachers, bringing gifts of fruits and flowers.

The streets are alive, not only with the celebrating citizenry, but also with colorful blooms, ornate lanterns, dragon and lion dancers, gongs, drums and bells. Parades are not uncommon, nor are firework displays at night. 

If you happen to be in one of the larger cities during Tet (Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang et al), there are many organized events taking place throughout the long Tet holiday. Food is an important part of the pomp and circumstance of Tet. Certain dishes are exclusive to the holiday. Perhaps the most famous being Banh chung (sticky square cake) and Banh tet (a cylindrical version). Made from glutinous rice, mung bean and pork (with other ingredients added, depending on family recipes), the cake is wrapped in banana leaves and boiled for several hours. 

Thit kho hot vit (braised pork belly with duck egg) – popular dish of the South, is slow-simmered in coconut juice and fish sauce and served as something of a comfort-food stew.  

Cu kieu (pickled scallion head) is marinated in sweet and sour sauce. The scallion heads are served with Tom kho (dried shrimp). Cu kieu is a popular side-dish during Tet feasts.

Xoi gac (sticky rice) is a dish with the holiday spirit! The red colored rice (red symbolizing good luck) has quite a few versions, which include peanuts or mung beans or assorted fruit.

Since Tet holiday brings people together, often for quick visits, snacks are always on hand. Among the most popular are Mứt, a candied fruit. You’ll find ginger, coconut, dry butternut squash, tamarind, carrot, pumpkin, star fruit, pineapple and more.  

Another tasty snack found in most every home is Hat dua (watermelon seed). Like Xoi gac, the melon seeds are red in color and therefore considered a symbol of good fortune.

Keo me xung is a brittle cracker/candy made of sesame seeds or peanuts (bean paste and sugar) and wrapped in a layer of baked rice paper. These bite sized goodies are popular with green tea. 

To experience Tet is to witness the Vietnamese at their affable best. Tet is a celebration of continuous joy - you can’t help but be swept up in the jubilance: Chuc mung nam moi (Happy New Year)…

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10 Do's & Don'ts During Tet Holiday in Vietnam

Things you Should and Should Not Do During Tet Holiday

For Vietnamese people, Tet (a Vietnamese traditional Lunar New Year Festival) is the most wonderful and important festival in the country for family to gather together after a year of working.

This is also an ideal time for exploring Vietnam’s beauty and Vietnamese culture and traditions . It does not matter what your nationality is, either Vietnamese or other nationalities, if you are going to visit Vietnam in this special occasion, you should know 10 do’s and don’ts during Tet Holiday. This will help you avoid doing things that must be prohibited during this traditional festive season in this Southeast Asian country.

I. Don’ts During Tet in Vietnam

1. avoid entering vietnamese’ house on the 1st day of lunar new year without invitation.

Don’t enter Vietnamese’s house on the 1 st  day of Lunar New Year if you haven’t been invited by the host first. Or else, if you aren’t lucky to own a name attached with wealth, happiness, prosperity or longevity, you are advisable not to show up at their house. In case you had funerals in your family last year, you must pay attention to not visiting their house for the first 3 days on the Lunar New Year.

2. Avoid wearing black or white, go for red

 According to the traditional Vietnamese’s concept, black and white or dark clothes remind of funerals. These colors haven’t been accepted on Lunar New Year Holidays. Red color is encouraged for this festival.

3. Avoid negative topics

Try to avoid negative topics including accidents, deaths or funerals on Tet holidays. Put on a smile for at least the first 3 days of the year, even if somebody slaps you in the face, and on the safe side, do as the Brits do – talking about the weather! Oops, but maybe not the black holes or floods!

4. Avoid demanding money during Tet

If you suddenly remember that someone has borrowed money from you, Tet is not a suitable time to require them to repay you. Traditionally, Vietnamese people believe that if they return or borrow money at the beginning of the year, they will have to borrow and repay money for the rest of the year. All you have to do is to keep calm and wait until the next 2-3 weeks!

5. Do not eat duck meat, squids, shrimps during Tet

Stop eating squids, duck meat or shrimps on Tet as people think that ink in the squids is black; duck is stupid and shrimps remind that you will move backwards like them.

6. Don’t take water and fire away from Vietnamese houses

In Vietnamese customs, fire can be regarded to be the source of the family’s warmth whereas water recalls the popular wish “Tien vo nhu nuoc” (translated meaning: Money rushes in like water), taking water out of somebody’s house is similar to taking away their wealth. Hence, don’t take things that are related to water or fire out of somebody’s house.

7. Avoid working on the 5th of the New Year

The 5 th  of the New Year is said to be not good for departures since it is considered to be anniversary of the death. It is also advisable not to start working on that day.

8. Don’t hurt or kills something

Last but not least, don’t kill or hurt something else! If you like eating chicken meat, buy it ready prepared. You will remain always innocent and pure.

II. Do’s During Tet in Vietnam

1. give suitable gifts for vietnamese during tet.

If you intend to present gift to someone on Vietnamese Tet Holiday, you are sure to avoid these followings gifts including: clock or watch, cats, medicine, writing ink and scissors or knives. Because all the above things remind of the unfortunate ones in the New Year; for examples, watches symbolize for the recipient’s time going to pass, cats for poverty (since Mèo in Vietnamese language pronounced like “nghèo”), ink black for unlucky color, knives or scissors for incompatibility.

2. Be ready to live with dirt and dust during 3 first days of Tet holiday

Be ready to live with dust and dirt on three days of Lunar Tet as you aren’t recommended to sweep your house or throw away the rubbish so as to prevent luck and benefits from going with it. It is highly suggested not to sweep the house on the first day of the New Year.

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Visit Vietnam during Tet Holiday - Everything You Need to Know

Things to know about visiting Vietnam on Tet holiday (Vietnamese Lunar New Year)

1. weather during tet holiday in vietnam, 2. traffic here and there.

• 3. Tourist attractions during Tet

4. Local restaurants

5. accommodations: hotel or homestay, 6. let's go shopping, 7. banking & money exchange, 8. how to say happy new year in vietnamese.

Tet Holiday , also known as Vietnamese New Year , is the most important public holiday of the year in Vietnam. In Sino-Vietnamese, Tet Nguyen Dan means the feast of the very first morning of the lunar calendar. Traveling around Vietnam during Tet , you might expect many differences compared to the normal days. Read our articles to see what is interesting about this traditional celebration and what should be noticed.

In 2024, Vietnam’s Tet holiday will be celebrated from February 10 (Jan 1st in Lunar Calendar) to February 14th (Jan 5th in Lunar Calendar). However, all the activities aimed at Tet usually happen after the Kitchen God festival, which falls on February 2nd (Dec 23rd in Lunar Calendar).

Tet celebration lasts for half a month, and you will see local life change from bustling, and peaceful to a cheering atmosphere. We can split the Tet holiday into 2 phases: before New Year’s Eve and after New Year’s Eve. 

The weather during the Tet holiday in Vietnam can vary depending on the specific location within the country. Typical weather in each region of Vietnam will be different across the country.

Northern Vietnam (Hanoi and the surrounding areas):

During Tet in the north, the weather is often cool and sometimes chilly. This period is in the midst of the dry and cool season, changing from Winter to Spring. Daytime temperatures may range from 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F). It can get colder in the evenings, dropping to 15°C or lower. The skies are generally clear and sunny, making it a pleasant time for outdoor sightseeing and mountainous adventure.

Central Vietnam (Hue, Danang, Hoi An and surrounding areas):

Central Vietnam experiences a more temperate and relatively dry climate during Tet.

Daytime temperatures in cities like Danang and Hue can be around 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), making it a comfortable time to visit temples and pagodas. Travelers feel free to bask in the sunlight. The weather is less humid and rainy compared to the previous months of the year.

Southern Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta and surrounding areas):

Southern Vietnam, including Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta, experiences warm and dry weather during Tet. Daytime temperatures can range from 28°C to 32°C (82°F to 89°F), providing a tropical and sunny atmosphere. This is a popular time for outdoor gatherings, festivals, and enjoying the vibrant culture of the region.

Thanks to the diversity in climate, there is also diversity in culture and customs. While in the North, people dress in warm clothes with layers, in the South, people mostly wear their shorts and skirts. While the yellow apricot blossom is more popular in the central and south of Vietnam, the peach flowers and kumquat trees are more displayed in the north. If you travel to Vietnam during Tet holiday , why not start from one end of the country and move toward the other end to experience local culture as much as possible?

>>  A Travel Guide to Visit Vietnam in January

>> A Travel Guide to Vietnam in February

You will be amazed by seeing two contrasting pictures of transportation in Vietnam before and after New Year's Eve .

Transportation in Vietnam one week before New Year can be quite challenging due to the massive movement of people as they travel to their hometowns to celebrate the Lunar New Year with their families. There is a significant increase in travel demand before the main days of the Tet holiday, with many Vietnamese people returning to their hometowns. This means that almost all modes of transportation are in high demand.

If you plan to fly during Tet, book your flights well in advance to secure your seats. Major airports like Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City and Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi can be especially busy during this period. In addition to planes, trains are a popular mode of transportation during Tet.

Transportation fares can rise during the Tet holiday due to high demand. Even though the fares are higher, tickets for trains, buses, and flights often still sell out quickly.

Before New Year’s Eve , in major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, traffic congestion can be more frequent as people move around for year-end parties or back to their hometowns. Just be calm when the roads become clogged and travel times between sightseeings might be longer than usual.

On the main days of Tet, you will see the scene change from hustle and bustle cities to tranquil ones. There are none of the usual crowded and noisy scenes. The urban city is different from itself on normal days. On the first day of the Vietnamese New Year, the area is quiet with fresh air.

Despite that, some transport providers may close or operate on a limited schedule. This can impact your travel options, so it's better to confirm your schedules in advance.

3. Tourist attractions during Tet

Tet is not only the most significant traditional festival in Vietnam, but it's also a time when many businesses and attractions close temporarily as people have a short break.

The weeks leading up to Tet are marked by vibrant and elaborate decorations in cities and towns across Vietnam. Streets are adorned with flowers, lanterns, and colourful displays. You can explore the city streets to appreciate the festive atmosphere.

Flower markets spring up in many cities during the lead-up to Tet . Flower gardens also wear a vivid colour. Visiting these markets and gardens can be a colourful and lively experience. These are the most famous blooming spots for you: Tao Dan Flower (HCMC), Hang Luoc Flower Market (Hanoi), Nhat Tan Flower Village (Hanoi), Sa Dec Flower Village (Dong Thap).

At some Museums or Temple of Literature, you may see the calligraphers creating words and phrases that bring good luck, prosperity, health, and happiness for the upcoming year on red paper or banners. Red symbolises luck and happiness in Vietnamese culture. Don't hesitate to get one to connect to the spirit of the Lunar New Year .

In Vietnamese customs, many people visit temples and pagodas during Tet to pray for a prosperous and fortunate year. You may consider visiting some of the well-known temples and pagodas, such as the Tran Quoc Pagoda in Hanoi, during this time. However, watch out for your belongings from the thief.

While some tourist sites may close during the actual Tet holiday,  historical sites and museums remain open leading up to and after Tet. Plan your visits accordingly to make the most of your trip. You should check on each attraction's website, and official fan page Facebook for exact open hours during Tet.

>> See more about Things to do in Vietnam

On this occasion, many businesses, including restaurants, may have adjusted operating hours or even closed temporarily to allow their staff to celebrate the holiday with their families. The specific availability of restaurants during Tet can vary depending on the location, type of restaurant, and local customs.

In larger cities like Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), Hanoi, and Danang, you are more likely to find some restaurants that remain open during Tet. Because these cities have a more significant number of customers, some restaurants catering to tourists may stay open.

Smaller, family-run restaurants and street food vendors may close, especially during the first few days of the holiday. Therefore, a street food tour should be taken before or after Tet.

Many hotels and international chain restaurants will remain open. If you book with hotels in advance, also check their restaurant. Having a meal at a hotel's restaurant is a good option so that you do not waste time finding a restaurant.

If you want to experience local Tet cuisine and traditions , you may consider seeking out special Tet markets or food stalls that offer traditional holiday dishes like banh chung and other seasonal treats.

Most restaurants that close for Tet typically do so for only a few days to a week. After the first 3-4 days of Tet, some businesses start to reopen gradually.

>> Articles about Vietnamese food and restaurants

In the past Vietnamese people loved to spend time gathering at home. However, when modern life is too busy for a vacation, some locals make use of the time off from work to travel. Hotels and resorts in popular destinations like Hoi An, Da Nang, Phu Quoc, Nha Trang will expect more domestic travellers.

There is a significant demand for accommodations in tourist areas when many people travel to be with their families. As a result, hotels, guesthouses, and other lodging options may experience limited availability, and prices may be higher.

Despite that, some businesses, including accommodations, may close or operate with reduced services during the Tet holiday. This is because many people, including staff, take time off to celebrate with their families.

Accommodations, especially in tourist areas, may have festive decorations and activities during Tet. This can add to the overall experience of celebrating the Lunar New Year in Vietnam .

Instead of hotels, you may consider staying in local guesthouses or homestays during Tet, which can provide a more memorable cultural experience. You will have the opportunity to participate in traditional Tet celebrations with the host family and learn more about the holiday from a local perspective. This can provide you with an authentic experience into Vietnamese traditions and customs.

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Shopping during Tet is a unique experience. The period leading up to Tet is marked by bustling markets, special sales, and a festive atmosphere as people prepare to celebrate the most significant holiday in Vietnam.

In the weeks leading up to Tet, markets and shopping areas come alive with increased activity. People are busy buying goods for the holiday, including food, decorations, and gifts.

Families stock up on essential ingredients for preparing traditional dishes like "banh chung" (square glutinous rice cake), pickled vegetables, and various treats to offer ancestors as well as their dear guests. Besides, people purchase apricot blossoms, peach blossoms, kumquat trees, and various flowers to decorate their homes. Each type of flower carries symbolic meaning, bringing luck and prosperity for the coming year. Besides, it's customary to buy new clothes to wear during Tet, symbolising a fresh start for the new year.

The days leading up to Tet can be particularly busy in markets and shopping malls. Locals and visitors alike join the hustle and bustle, creating a joyful atmosphere. In the lead-up to Tet, retailers often hold special promotions, encouraging people to make purchases for the holiday. This includes discounts on clothing, shoes, accessories, household items and food. Though modern stores and supermarkets have become increasingly popular, the traditional markets continue to play a significant role in Tet shopping, offering a wide range of goods and a more traditional convenient shopping experience.

Many brands release special Tet-themed products, including packaging and limited-edition items, to celebrate the holiday. Shopping during Tet is not just about buying necessities; it's a cultural and social experience. Travelers totally delve into the shopping paradise in Vietnam at this time, but be careful to not be overcharged.

Discover some famous markets for shopping:

>> Hanoi: Dong Xuan Market

>> Da Nang: top 10 markets to go shopping

>> North Vietnam’s ethnic markets

During the Tet (Vietnamese Lunar New Year), banks usually close for several days, and the exact closure dates can vary from year to year as Tet is based on the lunar calendar. Banks typically close a few days before Tet and remain closed for a few days after the holiday, with services resuming once the holiday period concludes. In 2024, banks such as Vietcombank , BIDV, VietinBank, TPBank, Agribank, etc. will close from 08/02/2024 until 14/02/2024.

If you plan to visit a bank or require banking services in Vietnam during Tet, you must check the specific holiday schedule and operating hours in advance.

Internet Banking and ATM services are still available during Tet. However, it's advisable to ensure you have sufficient cash on hand for your needs, as ATMs may become less reliable due to high demand and possible cash shortages during this period.

You should exchange a short amount of money before boarding the plane, or do it at the airport. But keep in mind that banks and money exchangers at the airport provide a less beneficial exchange rate than usual. The more favorable exchange rate could be found in jewelry shops in Hanoi Old Quarter or near Ho Chi Minh City's Ben Thanh market.

Vietnamese people believe that the blessings of the new year can bring them fortunes for the entire year. If good things come to the family on New Year’s Day , the entire following year will be filled with what they wished for.

To say "Happy New Year" in Vietnamese, you can use the phrase "Chúc Mừng Năm Mới." This phrase is commonly used to convey New Year's greetings in Vietnam. Many people find Vietnamese tones challenging to learn. However, you can smile big and pronounce it like “chook moon numb moy”.

Besides, people commonly wish each other luck, health and prosperity for example:

An khang thịnh vượng: peace, good health & prosperity

Vạn sự như ý: all your wishes come true

Sống lâu trăm tuổi: live up to 100 years

Sức khỏe dồi dào: good health & strength

Tiền vô như nước: money comes in like water

Tet is a special time in Vietnam, and experiencing it firsthand can be a memorable and culturally rich travel experience. By planning ahead and understanding the unique aspects of Tet, you can make the most of your time and enjoy the festive activities surrounding the Vietnamese Lunar New Year .

Are you ready for a Vietnam trip? If you need a tailor-made tour package to Vietnam, don't hesitate to send an inquiry HERE or leave a comment below. We will get back to you for the quality travel program and best quotation. Wish you peace, health, and prosperity.

Recommended Vietnam tour packages for Tet holiday:

>>  Danang & Hoi An Relaxation Package - 05 Days

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>>  Best of the North & Da Nang beach package holiday - 10 Days

>>  From Hanoi to Saigon: Vietnam Family Holiday | Classic Package Tour - 14 Days

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02 Comments

• Eden Manjarrez United Kingdom

We came to know about the holiday after we booked our flight tickets, so we are kind of worried about how the cities will be on Feb 10th and 11th. Will the Mekong Delta tour be available on Feb 11th? TIA

• Kayla Le Vietnam

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Tet vietnamese new year: everything you need to know.

Tet Vietnamese New Year stands as a pivotal cultural event in Vietnam , marked by rich customs, familial reunions, and time-honored rituals that captivate all who experience it. Read this article from Asia Legend Travel below to uncover the significance of Tet holiday, where the warmth of family gatherings, the delight of exchanging gifts, and the diverse array of traditional foods during Tet exemplify the essence of this cherished celebration.

What is Tet Holiday?

Vietnamese Lunar New Year or Tet is Vietnam’s main holiday, celebrated nationwide to welcome the traditional lunar new year. It typically falls between mid-January and late February, marking the beginning of the lunar calendar year. The festivities span for three days, or even up to a week, and are divided into the days leading up to New Year’s Eve, the New Year’s Eve itself, and subsequent New Year’s Days.

Tet Holiday is important for Vietnamese people

Tet is the biggest festival in Vietnam , emphasizing traditional values and customs.

• Cultural heritage: Rooted in ancient times, Tet traces back to the era of the Hung Kings, symbolizing its enduring significance.
• Spiritual significance: Beyond festivity, Tet embodies spiritual connections, uniting humanity with divine and fostering community cohesion.
• Family traditions: Tet epitomizes family reunions, fostering gratitude and ancestral reverence, and nurturing familial harmony.
• Wishes for prosperity: During Tet Vietnamese New Year , goodwill exchanges signify hopes for health, prosperity, and unity, embodying moral principles and cultural richness.

How do the Vietnamese get ready for Tet Holiday?

Preparations for Tet Vietnam begin well in advance, usually a month or 1-2 weeks before the festivities.

Cleaning and decorating the houses

Vietnamese households embark on a tradition of deep cleaning, symbolizing the removal of past year’s woes and ushering in good fortune for the upcoming year. Old items are discarded, houses meticulously cleaned, Tet holiday melodies resonate, and dwellings are adorned with vibrant Tet decorations, fostering a cheerful atmosphere. These decorations, including red couplets, “cay neu” bamboo poles, and Tet-associated flowers, imbue homes with a festive spirit, setting the stage for joyful celebrations.

Shopping for new clothes and gifts

Shopping for new clothes and gifts is a cherished tradition among Vietnamese families. Parents take children to bustling Tet markets to select new attire, a delightful pre-holiday excursion. Additionally, families procure an array of items to embellish their homes, prepare sumptuous Tet feasts, and extend hospitality to guests. The shopping list typically includes fresh flowers, fruits, Tet preserves, and traditional delicacies like chicken, sausage, and bamboo shoots. Another customary practice is exchanging heartfelt gifts, fostering bonds of affection and conveying well wishes for the forthcoming year.

Traditional rituals before Tet Vietnamese New Year

Passed down through generations, these Vietnamese Lunar New Year customs endure, each carrying profound significance. Among the timeless traditions to prepare for Tet are:

• Honoring the Kitchen God on the 23rd day of the twelfth lunar month.
• Crafting “banh chung” and “banh tet,” emblematic Tet cakes.
• Arranging the symbolic “5 fruits” tray on family altars.
• Paying respects to ancestors’ graves.
• Conducting the “cung tat nien” ceremony, honoring ancestors and the earth.
• Reveling in the joyous celebration of New Year’s Eve.

Tet Vietnamese New Year Traditional foods

Celebrating the Tet holiday in Vietnam is synonymous with indulging in a rich tapestry of Vietnamese traditional foods .

Northern Vietnamese Tet Foods

In the northern region of Vietnam, Tet holiday cuisine revolves around ancestral traditions, with dishes carefully selected to honor heritage and symbolism.

• Chung Cake: Symbolizing the earth, it’s a Tet staple.
• Xoi Gac: Its red color represents luck and joy.
• Vietnamese Pork Roll: Signifies harmony and abundance.
• Dried Bamboo Shoot Soup: Reflects ancestral culinary practices.

Central Vietnamese Tet Foods

Central Vietnamese Tet cuisine boasts bold flavors and rich culinary heritage, with dishes crafted to delight the senses and symbolize prosperity.

• Banh Tet: Represents fullness and unity.
• Pickled Vegetables: Sweet, sour, and crunchy accompaniments to banh tet.
• Meat Marinated in Fish Sauce: A popular Tet dish in Central provinces.
• Vietnamese Beef Roll: A common Tet delicacy with vibrant colors.

Southern Vietnamese Tet Foods

In Southern Vietnam, Tet celebrations are marked by an array of dishes brimming with flavor and cultural significance, embodying prosperity and familial togetherness.

• Banh Tet: Essential for Tet in Southern Vietnam.
• Vietnamese Braised Pork Belly: Symbolizes prosperity and family unity.
• Stuffed Bitter Melon Soup: Represents overcoming hardships for happiness.
• Chinese Sausage: A fragrant and versatile Tet dish in Southern Vietnam.

Plants and flowers during Tet Vietnamese New Year

When talk about Tet holiday in Vietnam , households embrace the tradition of adorning their homes with vibrant flowers and plants.

Flowers for Tet Holiday

Various flowers hold symbolic meanings that add depth to the festive ambiance during Tet Vietnamese New Year :

• Peach Blossoms : Symbolize growth, prosperity, and good luck in the North.
• Yellow Apricot Blossoms: Represent luck, wealth, and happiness in the South.
• Sword Lilies: Signify good luck, prosperity, and warding off negative energies.
• Gerberas: Symbolize wealth and good fortune, often given as gifts for New Year’s wishes.
• Chrysanthemum Flowers: Represent longevity, attracting luck and wealth to the family.

To enhance your home’s atmosphere, consider adding spring buds, lisianthus flowers, dahlias, marigolds, and more.

Trees for Tet Holiday

To infuse your home with prosperity and auspiciousness during Tet Vietnamese New Year, consider these plants:

• Kumquat Trees: Symbolize luck, peace, joy, and prosperity in the North.
• Fig Tree: Represents abundance and prosperity, ideal for wishing for a prosperous year.
• Money Plants: Signify richness, wealth, and prosperity, remaining vibrant all year.
• Gold Coin Tree: Attracts wealth and fortune with its bright red color, believed to bring luck and prosperity.

Vietnamese Traditions and Customs

Embedded within Vietnamese culture are rich traditions and customs, notably exemplified during Tet.

First visitor of the New Year

In Vietnamese Tet culture, the identity of the first visitor of the New Year holds significant importance. Known as “Xông Đất,” this honored guest is carefully chosen, typically a respected figure or someone believed to bring good luck. Their arrival on New Year’s Day symbolizes prosperity and sets the tone for the year ahead. Welcoming the first visitor is a cherished tradition, representing hospitality, good fortune, and communal harmony in Vietnamese culture.

Ancestor worship and altar setup

In Vietnamese culture, honoring ancestors is a sacred tradition observed during important family gatherings, particularly during Tet. Ancestor worship involves meticulously cleaning the ancestral altar and arranging offerings of delicious dishes, Tet flowers, and a tray of five fruits to invite ancestral spirits to partake in the festivities and bestow blessings for a prosperous new year. This time-honored ritual reflects the profound respect for ancestors and underscores the cultural value of honoring one’s heritage for future generations.

Paying respects to parents and elders

During Tet Vietnamese New Year , Vietnamese families cherish the tradition of honoring elders, symbolizing respect and gratitude for their wisdom and guidance. Children express reverence for grandparents and parents by offering Tet wishes for longevity and good health. This custom underscores the deep-rooted value of respecting elders in Vietnamese culture, emphasizing familial bonds and traditions passed down through generations. Such gestures exemplify the enduring significance of familial respect and unity during the Tet holiday and beyond.

Giving and receiving red envelopes (li xi)

In Vietnamese New Year, Vietnamese families partake in the tradition of “li xi,” gifting small envelopes adorned with money to celebrate the youth. On New Year’s Day, adults present these envelopes to children to mark their vitality and to the elderly to wish them longevity. This custom symbolizes care for the younger generation and extends hopes for prosperity in the new year. Such gestures reflect the deep-rooted cultural tradition of sharing blessings and goodwill during the festive season, fostering familial bonds and community spirit.

Popular Celebration Activities during the Lunar New Year

Vietnam has many vibrant and engaging activities , offering visitors and locals alike a plethora of opportunities to partake in the festivities and immerse themselves in the rich cultural traditions of Tet.

Cultural festivals over the three regions

Vietnam’s Tet holiday features diverse cultural festivals nationwide, attracting crowds seeking blessings for the new year:

• Dao People’s New Year Dance Festival: In Sapa , showcasing 14 traditional Dao dances.
• Huong Pagoda Festival: In My Duc, Hanoi, offering scenic Buddhist sites.
• Dong Ky Village Firecracker Parade: In Bac Ninh, featuring relic parades and firecrackers.
• Tich Dien Doi Son Festival: In Ha Nam, honoring ancestral origins.
• Dong Da Festival: In Hanoi, celebrating King Quang Trung’s victories.

These festivals enrich Tet celebrations, reflecting Vietnam’s cultural heritage.

Fireworks displays and public events

Every Tet holiday, Vietnam celebrates with spectacular fireworks displays, an age-old tradition rooted in legend. The vibrant bursts of color not only dispel evil spirits but also signify hope for a prosperous year. These displays, held during lunar and Gregorian New Year celebrations and other public holidays, are open to all, fostering a sense of community and unity as people come together to welcome the new year with wishes for happiness and well-being.

Lion and dragon dances

In Vietnamese culture, lion and dragon dances are hallmark performances during the Tet Festival. Often showcased at temples and pagodas, these dances epitomize aspirations for luck, prosperity, and success. Adorned in vibrant red and gold, symbolizing strength and good fortune, the dancers captivate audiences with their graceful movements, embodying the festive spirit of the Lunar New Year celebration in Vietnam.

Visiting pagodas and temples during Tet Vietnamese New Year

During the initial days of the Lunar New Year, it’s customary for Vietnamese families to visit pagodas and temples, seeking blessings for a prosperous year ahead. As the clock strikes midnight on New Year’s Eve, crowds flock to nearby pagodas, fervently praying for health, happiness, and fulfillment of their wishes. This tradition symbolizes hope and spiritual renewal, with the belief that prayers made during this auspicious time will be granted in the forthcoming year.

Tips for Experiencing Vietnam’s Lunar New Year

For a joyful Tet Vietnam 2024 , it’s essential to plan your travel destinations and accommodations wisely to fully immerse yourself in the celebrations and make the most of your trip.

The best places to celebrate Tet Holiday in Vietnam

For an unforgettable Tet holiday experience in Vietnam, explore vibrant cities like Hanoi , Ho Chi Minh City , Phu Quoc , Nha Trang , Hoi An , and Ha Long . Indulge in traditional Tet dishes, marvel at festive decorations, and soak up the lively atmosphere. Don’t miss the chance to partake in unique Tet festivals, offering a glimpse into Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage and celebrating the dawn of the Lunar New Year in style.

Accommodations and transportation during Tet Holiday

During Tet Vietnamese New Year, it’s crucial to plan ahead for accommodations and transportation due to increased demand. Book flights, trains, and buses well in advance to secure seats and avoid price hikes. Consider staying in reputable hotels or homestays with good reviews, and be mindful of potential travel delays due to the holiday rush.

Best Tet Holiday wishes in Vietnamese

To express your heartfelt Tet holiday wishes to your loved ones in Vietnam, consider using these traditional Vietnamese New Year greetings:

• Sức khoẻ dồi dào: Wishing you good health.
• An khang thịnh vượng: Wishing you prosperity.
• Phát tài phát lộc: Wishing you wealth.
• Cung hỉ phát tài: May you have a prosperous New Year.
• Làm ăn phát tài: May your business prosper.
• Vạn sự như ý: May all your wishes come true.
• Hạnh phúc sức khỏe: Wishing you happiness and health.
• Năm mới cát tường: Wishing you a lucky New Year.

Tet Vietnamese New Year embodies the essence of Vietnamese culture, celebrating family, tradition, and hope for the future. With its vibrant festivities, time-honored customs, and delectable cuisine, Tet holiday in Vietnam unites communities and spreads joy across the nation, highlighting the enduring spirit of unity and renewal that defines this cherished celebration.

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12 Best Places To Visit In Vietnam On Tet Holiday

Are you excited about Tet , the Vietnamese version of the Lunar New Year? This is the most important celebration of Vietnamese culture, and the whole country is buzzing with excitement. You definitely don’t want to miss out on all the festivities, so let’s dive into the top places to go!

As the capital city of Vietnam, Hanoi is a must-visit destination during Lunar New Year. During Tet, you can witness traditional ceremonies at Hoan Kiem Lake or check out the local festivities at Dong Xuan Market. Don’t forget to try the local street food and visit historical sites like the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum or the Temple of Literature.

Mộc Châu plateau

Moc Chau is a lovely place to visit during the Lunar New Year in Vietnam. It’s a popular destination for travelers, and during Tet, it’s even more stunning.

The end of January to February is the perfect time to go because you’ll get to see the plum blossoms and sakura in full bloom. It’s like walking through a heavenly garden! You can also admire the beautiful scenery of tea plantations and vast fields of flowers.

There are several homestays and resorts in Moc Chau where you can stay and enjoy the fresh air and local cuisine. My personal favorite is the Milk Flower Valley homestay, which is surrounded by gardens of white milk flowers.

Tam Dao is a perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city during the Vietnamese Lunar New Year. It is always cooler here than in other parts of Vietnam, so you can enjoy the cold weather and the beautiful scenery of the mountains and forests.

You can visit the Silver Waterfall, which is about 50 meters high, or the Van Pagoda, which has a stunning view of the surrounding area. If you’re a foodie, don’t forget to try the chayote and Hill chicken, which are specialties of this region.

Sapa is one of my favorite places to visit in Vietnam during Tet holiday.

It’s a mountainous region in Northern Vietnam with stunning terraced fields and highland villages. The colorful brocade fabric and Hoang Lien Son range make for some incredible photo opportunities.

I highly recommend taking a Sapa Trekking tour to explore the villages and learn more about the local culture. You can also take a cable car to Fansipan Peak, which is the highest mountain in Indochina. It’s an unforgettable experience, trust me!

I absolutely love this ancient city in central Vietnam, which is famous for its historical sites and traditional Hue cuisine. During Tet, you can witness the traditional ceremonies at the Hue Citadel, where people offer incense and pray for good fortune. Be sure to try dishes like Bun Bo Hue and Banh Khoai – you won’t regret it!

My personal favorite spot is Hoi An , a small town with well-preserved ancient architecture that dates back to the 15th to 19th century. It’s like you’re stepping back in time!

You should plan to spend at least 2-3 days here to truly experience all that it has to offer.

Walking around the town during the Lunar New Year, you will see colorful lanterns and flowers everywhere. You can visit the Japanese Bridge, the ancient houses, and the local markets, where you can buy traditional souvenirs and taste delicious local food.

I also recommend taking a cooking class and learning how to make some Vietnamese dishes, such as spring rolls or pho. It’s a fun and educational experience! Learning how to make lanterns is also a great way to make the most of your time here.

Without a doubt, visiting Da Lat in the blooming season is an excellent plan for your Tet holiday. The city is known for its cool weather and beautiful flowers. You can rent a motorbike and explore the city, stopping at various flower gardens and coffee shops along the way.

You can also visit the famous Crazy House , which is an architectural masterpiece created by a Vietnamese architect, Dang Viet Nga. It’s a unique and surreal experience that you won’t forget.

Mui Ne is about 200 km away from Ho Chi Minh City and is known for its beautiful beaches and sand dunes. During Tet, you can participate in the local celebrations at the Mui Ne fishing village or visit the Phan Thiet Night Market to try local street food. You can also go on a sandboarding adventure on the red sand dunes or take a boat tour to see the nearby fishing villages.

Con Dao Islands

For those seeking some peace and quiet, the Con Dao Islands off the southern coast of Vietnam are perfect. You can visit the Con Dao prison to learn about the island’s history or participate in the local festivities at the Con Dao Night Market. Don’t miss the opportunity to go snorkeling or diving to explore the incredible marine life around the islands.

This coastal city in central Vietnam is another must-visit destination for beach lovers. During Tet, you can witness traditional ceremonies at the Ponagar Cham Towers or check out the local festivities at the Dam Market. Be sure to try the local seafood dishes and go on a boat tour to explore the nearby islands.

Ho Chi Minh City

If you’re looking for a bustling metropolis, Ho Chi Minh City won’t disappoint. You can shop for souvenirs at the Ben Thanh Market or participate in the local festivities at Tao Dan Park. Make sure to try the local street food and visit historical sites like the War Remnants Museum or the Cu Chi Tunnels.

Da Nang is known for its beautiful beaches, bridges, and mountains. You can witness traditional ceremonies at the Dragon Bridge or check out the local festivities at Asia Park . Rent a motorbike to explore the nearby Marble Mountains or try local seafood dishes like Banh Trang Cuon or Bun Cha Ca.

Some tips for traveling on Tet holiday

When visiting these destinations during Lunar New Year, there are some tips that I recommend you keep in mind:

• Avoid 1st of Tet: The first few days of the Lunar New Year are a time when Vietnamese people stop all business activities and spend time with their families. That means that all stores and restaurants will be closed, so plan accordingly. Travel before Tet or from the 3th day onward.
• Book in advance: The Lunar New Year is the busiest time of the year in Vietnam, so it’s essential to book your accommodation, transportation, and tours in advance to avoid any unexpected hassles.
• Be aware of price hikes: Keep in mind that the prices for food and transportation may be a bit higher because it’s the holiday season.
• Be mindful of cultural customs: During Tet, Vietnamese people follow many customs and traditions that might be unfamiliar to foreigners. It’s crucial to be respectful and mindful of these customs, such as wearing red clothes for good luck, bringing gifts to hosts, and avoiding taboo activities.
• Be prepared for crowds: Most of the destinations in Vietnam will be packed with domestic tourists during Tet, so be prepared for crowds and long queues. It’s best to plan your itinerary wisely and avoid peak hours if possible.
• Try the local cuisine: Vietnam is famous for its diverse and flavorful cuisine, and Lunar New Year is the perfect time to try some traditional dishes that are only available during this time. Don’t miss out on specialties like Banh Chung, Mut Tet, and dried candied fruits.
• Have fun and enjoy the festive atmosphere: Lunar New Year is a time of joy and celebration, and Vietnamese people love to have fun and enjoy the festive atmosphere. Join in the local festivities, watch the dragon dances, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere to experience the true spirit of Tet.

I hope these tips and recommendations will help you plan a memorable Lunar New Year trip to Vietnam. Don’t hesitate to ask me if you have any more questions or need further assistance. Happy travels!

Ha is an avid traveler and writer with a background in marketing & hospitality. She's lived in a few countries and traveled to more than 30. When she's not traveling or writing, Ha loves trying new recipes.

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54 Comments

The article on best places to go in Vietnam is very interesting and I really enjoy this. Thank you for helping me.

I’m glad that you found it useful, Adam.

Oooh love this! I’ve been to Vietnam twice: Hanoi/Ha Long Bay and HCM City/Mekong Delta, but would love to return and explore the whole length of the country. Will put these places on the dream itinerary! Thanks for sharing and also, it’s so refreshing to see a local’s recommendations on Vietnam for a change! Thanks!

Wow! It’s great that you visited Vietnam twice already. I’m glad that you enjoyed your time and I hope you can visit again in the future.

Vietnam is just so beautiful! I went to Hoi An and Sapa and was blown away. I can only imagine during Tet the atmosphere is even more festive! Loved all of your tips and pics. I hope to return to Vietnam one day soon.

Thank you, Cherene. I hope you can go back too :)

Vietnam is such a gorgeous country and so varied! Can’t wait to backpack someday and that plateau is breathtaking :O

Thank you. Vietnam is really beautiful and I hope you can visit one day :)

That sounds like a great time to be there, I had never heard of it before! When is it? What month? What is your ultimate favourite place to be for the festival?

It’s around February every year, but it can change based on the Lunar Calendar. My favorite place is in the center of the city. It’s really festive.

Thanks for sharing your recommendations! I’m visiting Vietnam next year and this list is really helpful, even though I won’t be visiting during Tet. Adding Sapa to my list to visit, it sounds wonderful!

Thank you, Adriene. I’m glad that you found it helpful.

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• Ho Chi Minh City

• Tet Holiday
• Travel Tips

Visiting Vietnam During Tet: The 5 Best Destinations

Find out the best places to be to make your Vietnam vacation during Tet a wonderful time.

• 1. Dalat - The city of Eternal Spring
• 2. Nha Trang - The Pearl of the Far East of Vietnam
• 3. Hoi An - The Lantern Town
• 4. Hanoi - Feel the Unusual Tranquility
• 5. Ho Chi Minh City - City of lights

“Ain’t no party in this world like Tet”

More often than not, in foreigner’s eyes, Tet is often written off as a time to travel to Vietnam. Well after all, most shops and restaurants as well as entertainment places would be closed during Tet. But isn’t it a big miss-out if you don't get to see the streets filled with colorful lights and lanterns, the beautiful Peach Blossoms and Golden Apricot Blossoms with those tiny little red lucky money envelopes? Plus, the beaches and cities will mostly be empty - which is great for those who prefer a getaway trip with a bit of tranquility. In order to help you enjoy the Lunar New Year atmosphere better, this guide provides you with a 4 top places to visit in Vietnam during Tet holiday:

Dalat - The city of Eternal Spring

There is a reason why this beautiful city is very well-known with all the lovely-dovey couples and honeymooners. Being the capital city of Lam Dong province, Dalat is called “The city of Eternal Spring” with lovely French villas, the fresh air, green valley and beautiful pine forests.

There is no need to worry about what to do in Dalat during Tet, as there are a lot of tourist attractions you would want to see: the imposing 2167m Langbiang Mountain where the trekkers wouldn't be disappointed with such a challenge which gives you a marvelous view of the whole wide floral city, the Paradise Lake - a big tourist attraction with a breathtaking view and an unique way of camping, health caring, trekking, mountain climbing, fishing and the famous Truc Lam zen monastery as well as taste some specialties of Dalat, drink Can wine, and enjoy Horse or Elephant riding. Another suggested highlight is to visit the beautiful French villas and the replica of the Eiffel Tower which have given Dalat the name of “Le Petit Paris” (A Little Paris)

Nha Trang - The Pearl of the Far East of Vietnam

If you are searching for a place where you can both enjoy the peaceful sound of the sea and still be able to attend all the busy celebrations, events, countdown show and the fireworks party then Nha Trang is definitely a place for you. Not only being famous for having the most beautiful beaches in Vietnam, during Tet, Nha Trang is literately filled with flowers from all the three regions of the country: North, Central and South so you will get to see many different kinds of flowers on Ly Thanh Tong Street, the Sports Center, Xom Moi Market, Dam Market and Le Hong Phong Street as well as peach branches and apricot trees. One of the most attracted places to visit here on Lunar New Year’s Eve would be the Holy Mother Tower where the fireflies gather and fly around the tower to warmly welcome the new year. For tourists who are travelling with kids, we strongly recommend you to visit Vinpearl Nha Trang Water Park & Theme Park, where the smiles of your kids would say it all!

Hoi An - The Lantern Town

Worry about closed shops and restaurants during Tet holiday? It is not going to happen in Hoi An. Right upon your arrival to Hoi An, you will soon realise that it is the place to be - an ancient town just like in the movie! So much mouth-watering street food to try, especially “Banh My” - not the normal bread, but the famous authentic “Banh My”, so much shopping need to be done with professional local tailors that will leave you with unexpected pleasure, and the gorgeous old peaceful street view. This coming Tet holiday, Hoi An New Year Lantern Festival will be hosted on February 8th 2016 with around 50 lantern workshops in the town will take part in the events. And for seven days of the festival, the whole charming town will be lit up by hundreds of colorful lanterns and a series of culture and art performances.

Hanoi - Feel the Unusual Tranquility

Tell me the time of the year when you can see an empty street in Hanoi - Yes, it’s the one and only Tet! Some might say it’s a little boring to see this busy city suddenly get quiet and wonder where to go or what to do, but others would tell you to look around and hey, isn't it a strangely beautiful scene? No more traffic jam and crowd, no more horn from the vehicle, Hanoi as you see during Tet holiday is back to being a charming little city where you can enjoy a hot authentic Vietnamese coffee while doing a bit of walking tour in the Old Quarter on a typical cold winter day. You will easily spot some local families out taking photos of their little ones happily smiling in traditional Vietnamese costumes. Just too cute that these little cuties can warm the atmosphere up even on the coldest days of winter! On those first days of the Lunar Year, don't forget to take some time to go to the Temple of Literature and Scholars’ Street as well as the famous temples. And if tourists want to do something else, there are still several of bars open during Tet Holiday - Minh’s Jazz, Easy Rider, Dragonfly, Le Pub etc. Want to see Hanoi in a different sight from being a busy capital city? This is it!

Ho Chi Minh City - City of lights

From enjoying some classic smoky jazz in District 3 to rocking yourself up with the EDM anthems in District 1 - Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) is the city that doesn't sleep. The night life here needs no introduction - parties and suppers everywhere, creative cocktails, all-nighters. On the Lunar New Year’s eve, you can either choose to countdown at the bars, or watch fireworks in the street with the local. Attending Nguyen Hue Flower Street Festival and Tao Dan Flower Festival is another way to celebrate Tet in a very local way. There will be beautiful flower decoration is mostly red and yellow - the two colours that represent Tet, featuring folk music, games and heavenly dishes in a warmly welcoming atmosphere.

Some might prefer the summer’s heat in Vietnam and spend the day sunbathing at the beach, some might want to travel at a different time to explore Vietnam without any closed shop and easier to travel with several of open bus tour. But also, to a lot of tourists who have come to Vietnam during Tet Holiday, they know this country is not just about having beautiful beaches, landscapes or good food, there are much more on discovering their traditional culture, and we hope you will gladly find out about them with a trip to Vietnam this coming Tet.

Visiting Hoi An During Tet: 5 Things To Know

As Tet holiday is the most important period of a year to Vietnamese, just like Christmas and New Year to Weterners, there are some notices for travellers who want to travel to Hoi An during this holiday to avoid unpleasant things happen.

Visiting Ho Chi Minh City During Tet: 7 Things To Keep In Mind

In order to have the best Tet experience in Ho Chi Minh city, read these useful tips shared by locals and experienced travellers to ensure a smooth trip during the holidays.

5 Things You Should Know About Visiting Vietnam During Tet

Vietnam Online creates this guide as a special early gift for those visiting Vietnam during the New year, in the hope that upon leaving, many will say

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What Vietnamese usually eat for Tet holiday.

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Traditional flowers for Tet holiday.

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What people often wish each other

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The Hangry Backpacker

Go Alone. Get Lost. Eat.

Traveling Vietnam During Tet

October 3, 2018 By Hangry Backpacker Leave a Comment

Traveling Vietnam during Tet can be quite the experience. Tet is the biggest holiday of the year in Vietnam. It is the celebration of the Lunar New Year and the coming of Spring, sending the country into a fit of chaos and celebration. Typically falling sometime in January or February, the people of Vietnam travel from across the country back to their hometowns to celebrate Tet and spend time with family.

It is a celebration of fun, but also a serious preparation for the new year. The longstanding traditions are apparent everywhere with decorations, altars and burning pots of paper? Yes, you will see large stock pots of paper burning on the streets of cities and towns alike. It is a bit annoying and not so fun to huff the smoke, but it is Vietnam. You  do not  come here for crisp, clean air.

There is a lot to consider before traveling in/to/through Vietnam during Tet. The actual New Year’s Day may only be a single day, but the effects are noticeable for 5-10 days before and after. Here are some important things to note for travel in Vietnam during Tet:

Transportation in Vietnam During Tet

The safest way for foreigners to travel through Vietnam is via bus or train. Trains can be more scenic and comfortable, but at some point, you will have to take a bus if you venture out of the larger cities. And you should do this!

The same should be said for Tet. Again, the best way to get around is bus or train. But! As mentioned above, the people of Vietnam travel across the country themselves during Tet. And seeing as there are about 100 million people from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City in this long, narrow country, the buses and trains will have many more passengers than any normal day the rest of the year.

Seriously, a lot more people. Do not be surprised to find yourself on a jam-packed, oversold bus for hours, with people squeezing on the floor for any space available. The next thing you know, you might have a strange baby on your lap! Safety on the roads is not exactly priority #1 in Southeast Asia; so if you want a comfy and cozy ride, stay home or pay through the nose.

The main point of noting the transportation differences when traveling though Vietnam during Tet are the inflated costs. The tourist buses are more expensive than the local buses to begin with, and during the New Year’s chaos, you can expect prices to be double or worse. The prices are still cheaper than buses in most western nations, but if you are trying to penny-pinch your way up/down the country, this time of year will make that harder.

You can always opt for the local buses, but these already overcrowded buses will now be miserably full.

An example of the inflated prices is the overnight sleeper bus from Hoi An to Da Lat. This bus will normally cost you $8-15 USD; however, during Tet, expect the tab to be $30 and up. The earlier you book, the better, but it will be difficult to stick to that airtight budget during this time.

Accommodation in Vietnam During Tet

The same goes for lodging. As a solo traveler, choosing dorms in a hostel or homestay is almost always the cheapest route. When traveling in Vietnam during Tet, this is still true, but be prepared to pay anywhere from an dollar or two to double the rate each night.

The tough part about dealing with accommodation in travel to Vietnam during Tet is not surging prices, but simply finding a vacancy. Hotels are businesses too, often family-owned, and many will shut their doors for a week or more.

There are plenty of stories from travelers who book accommodation early, only to arrive and find their hotel locked and dark. During a time when vacancies are harder to come by, this can put you in a stressful bind. The last thing anyone wants is to feel stranded in the sweltering heat, bags aplenty, with nowhere to go.

Book your accommodation early and make contact with the property to ensure you won’t be left out on the curb.

Businesses/Shopping During Tet

While many hotels and hostels shut their doors for the holiday, even more businesses close down. During Tet, family and celebration is more important than tourist dollars – it is a headscratcher, but respectable.

The UNESCO-designated city of Hoi An , totally dependent on tourists who come to relax and get that new personally tailored wardrobe from scratch, is no different. People come across the world to get a set of clothes or handmade leather goods for pennies on the dollar for what you would pay for the same quality elsewhere. However, during Tet, most of these tailors close as well. If you want that suit, you had better come early or stick around after the holidays. It is not about the money at this time, so be patient. They will get to you when they get to you.

Even restaurants shut their doors, leaving the hungry, confused tourists scratching their heads, wandering in search of an open option. Those that do remain open, especially in heavily touristy areas, may add a surcharge to your total bill. 

One business that will probably be open is the local mini-mart. Everyone needs booze and party supplies so you may still have that option. However, playing it safe would be best. Stock up on Vietnamese beer, seaweed potato chips, a $2 bottle of local rum and wait for the fun to begin.

Stay in One Place

The most important thing you should note about traveling Vietnam during Tet is to stay in one place. It is not impossible to get around, but your life will be considerably easier and less stressful if you don’t wander too far. You can save money avoiding price surges, avoid headaches from trying to find last-minute lodging, sit back, relax and enjoy the celebrations.

Once you find a place you enjoy or think will suit you, arrive a couple of days before Tet and stick around for 3-4 days after. This can be a major chunk of time for most trips to Vietnam, but if you are on a budget, take this chance to really get to know this one place and catch your breath. Travel is exhausting and Tet is the perfect excuse to take a break in Vietnam. And party.

Hoi An is a wonderful place to celebrate, with tourists and locals ringing in the New Year and partying side-by-side into the wee hours of the morning. Bigger cities are also known for hosting massive celebrations, so take your pick!

If you are lucky enough to receive an invitation to join a local family or group for their celebrations, DO NOT pass it up. You will see a more authentic and localized celebration, and the holiday foods cooked in homes are not commonly found in restaurants. Oh, and it’s really good.

Why You Should Travel Vietnam During Tet

Tet seems like a stressful time to be traveling in Vietnam. Yes, this is true. But it is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see an entire nation buzzing around with excitement and pride. The Vietnamese flags are not in short supply, waving from every house and shop across the country.

Mandarin trees are present in every building. Apparently, you have to have one (strangely you do not see many people eating the mandarins, though), and it is debatable whether or not there are more mandarin trees in homes and shops or on the back of motorbikes. The floral displays are intricate and beautiful, adding even more color to an already radiant country.

Traveling in Vietnam during Tet is an exciting time to be in the country. Any opportunity to go abroad and take part in a local festival, event or holiday should be taken. You get a front row seat for fun and culture. Do not hesitate on buying that ticket to Vietnam. Go ahead and proceed to checkout, but make sure you budget a few extra bucks per day and pack plenty of patience!

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All You Need to Know About Travelling to Vietnam During Tet

Travelling to Vietnam during Tet?

Tet falls in the first two months of the calendar year, and many people may tell you that it’s not a good idea to travel to Vietnam during this time.

However, we are here to tell you exactly how you can dive into the vibrant celebrations and make the most of being a part of this wonderful time of year in Vietnam. Also, you should bear in mind to make sure you are respectful of this important holiday in the Vietnamese calendar.

Firstly, what is Tet?

Short for Tết Nguyên Đán , Tet is the Vietnamese New Year. It is also referred to as Chinese New Year as it is similar to the Chinese calendar, however, the people of Vietnam celebrate Tet based on a separate Vietnamese calendar.

Tet is considered by locals to be the biggest and most important in their national holidays. Most of the Vietnamese pause their busy lives during this holiday and travel to be with their family members all across the country.

Vietnam becomes awash with a sea of colourful flowers, yellow in particular.

How is Tet celebrated in Vietnam?

The lead-up

If you’re in Vietnam during the lead up to Tet, you’ll notice how many of the Vietnamese work to rid their homes of any bad fortune. This can be done through thorough cleaning, buying new clothing, resolving arguments and paying debts. The rush to tie up any loose ends is because Tet Nguyen Dan literally translates as ‘the first morning of the first day of the new year’ – just like much of the western world make new year’s resolutions, the Vietnamese make sure they go into the new year with a clean slate.

Paying respects to gods and tributes to ancestors

The Vietnamese believe that Tet is the time when the Kitchen God reports to the Jade Emperor about their family so will burn gold leaf paper and offer live carp to the Kitchen God. During Tet, you’ll also notice an increase in the amount of incense burning, especially during the middle of the day. These are offerings which are burned in memory of the departed in order to pay tribute to their ancestors, an important aspect of the holiday.  

Encouraging good luck and omens

Whilst much of the western world say ‘cheers’ to another year, sing songs and embrace their loved ones on the stroke of midnight on the 31st December, the Vietnamese welcome in the new year by beating drums and lighting firecrackers. Believing that the luck for the whole year can be determined solely by the events during Tet, the Vietnamese do what they can to make sure good omens come to them. This ranges from encouraging dogs to bark and welcoming the wealthy into their homes believing that this will determine the family’s luck for the new year.

Visiting family & friends

Tet is a time when the Vietnamese people travel the length of the country in order to return to their hometowns or provinces to spend time with their loved ones. Typically, the first day of Tet is dedicated to close friends and parents, the second day to in-laws and other friends and the third day to distant relations. During these meetings, gifts are exchanged and feasts are laid out.

Following the normal rounds, families will then go off to pray for the year to come or join in the parades that usually fill the streets in the last few days of Tet.

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Outside houses and businesses, you’ll see offerings and incense burning along with plenty of yellow flowers

Travelling Vietnam during Tet

Whilst you may have heard differently, foreigners are very welcome to be a part of the festivities during Tet. You’ll find the Vietnamese are even friendlier and welcoming during Tet as no one wishes to bring a bad omen on the new year.

Travelling Vietnam during Tet is a vibrant, colourful and wonderful experience. Especially so in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Hue and Hoi An. However, you should be prepared for the following.

Things to bear in mind when travelling Vietnam during Tet:

• Be respectful : This is a major festival in the Vietnamese calendar and should be respected. As always, respect the normal customs of Vietnam and be kind.
• Restaurants and shops will be closed : Some businesses shut for three weeks surrounding Tet, yet some only shut for 1-2 days. Whatever the case, be prepared to have limited choices during the week of the new year.
• Prices will be higher : It is the peak season of travel during Tet, almost everything from travel to hotels to food goes up in price. If you remember to work this into your budget, it won’t be a shock. Remember, everyone else is paying these prices too, not just you.
• It will be busy : It’s the biggest holiday of the Vietnamese calendar! The Vietnamese like to travel and will be visiting their favourite places in Vietnam which may be the places you are heading to as well. Make sure to book accommodation ahead and head out early if you don’t want to be caught up in the crowds.
• Travel will be limited : Don’t try to squeeze too many destinations into your itinerary as travel will be limited or unreliable during this time – everyone wants to be home for Tet!
• If you’re invited to join a celebration:   The Vietnamese people are very friendly and welcoming so you may well be invited to join a family’s celebration. If you do, purchase some red envelopes (you can find these everywhere) and fill them with 5,000 VND notes for the children that will inevitably be at the party. If you want to take a gift for your hosts, anything red or from your home country is a great gift during Tet.

You’ll see many women and girls in the traditional Ao Dai dress during this time.

Want to join the party?

• On the stroke of midnight head to Thong Nhat Park, Van Quan Lake, Lac Long Quan Flower Garden, My Dinh Stadium or Hoan Kiem Lake to catch an amazing fireworks display.
• On the 5th day, head to Dong Da Hill to celebrate Dong Da Festival with the locals.
• On the 6th day, head to Co Lao Citadel to see the locals adorn costumes and form a procession in the Co Lao Festival.

Ho Chi Minh City

• For a cracking fireworks display at midnight of the new year, head to the Thu Thiem Tunnel or Dam Sen Park.
• Head to District 8 to visit the Tau Hu Canal to see the canal transformed into a beautiful flower market.
• From the 1st to the 4th day, head to the streets of Mac Thi Buoi, Nguyen Hue and Ngo Duc Ke in District 1 to join in the book festival.
• Try some foods that are only available during Tet in District 5’s Chinatown (‘Cholon’). Here, you can also admire the wonderful and colourful decorations on the temples and houses.

There are also various flower shows, elaborate festivals and ceremonies that take place throughout Vietnam’s major cities and destinations. The whole country transforms into a sea of red and yellow during Tet and the atmosphere is so exciting it’s contagious.

Worried you’ve missed the boat of seeing Vietnam during Tet? Don’t worry. Luckily for you, a country as breathtaking as Vietnam can be enjoyed at any time of the year, not just during festivals like Tet.

Chat directly with one of our local in-destination agents in Vietnam and start designing your perfect adventure today. The best way to experience a country is to travel like a local and what better way to do this than to travel with a local!

Grace Homer

At my desk, you'll find me tapping out inspiring adventures, finessing incredible trips designed by Local Designers and focussing on all things content. Having lived in Southeast Asia between Vietnam and Bali for three years, I'm now keeping toasty with a cuppa in a little English town planning future adventures for which I have constant inspiration. Offline, there's nothing I enjoy more than long cycle rides, fueling the foodie in me and seeking out new spots - preferably all at the same time. Find me on LinkedIn or Instagram and keep an eye out for travel inspiration here!

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Travel to Vietnam During Tet? Top places to visit & things to consider

What are the best places to visit in vietnam during tet are shops open during tet in vietnam read to explore about new year in vietnam with the top 4 destinations and a comprehensive guide..

Selling decorative items for Tet

Common Questions about Tet Holiday in Vietnam 

When is tet .

Tết or Tết Nguyên Đán is the widely used name for the Vietnamese New Year. It's also known as the Spring Festival or Lunar New Year in Vietnam. 

The date of Tet changes every year because it follows the Vietnamese lunar calendar. This means that Tet commonly falls in late January or early February according to the Gregorian calendar.

Flower markets in Tet are busy

The dates of Tet for the next few years:

• Tet in Vietnam 2024: February 10 (Year of Dragon)
• Tet in Vietnam 2025: January 29 (Year of the Snake)
• Tet in Vietnam 2026: February 17 (Year of the Horse)
• Tet in Vietnam 2027: February 6 (Year of the Goat)

Because Tet - Vietnamese Lunar New Year is the most important holiday in Vietnam, it’s celebrated over three days but often for a whole week. It's like the Christmas and New Year celebration period in the UK. 

Are shops open during Tet?

Some coffee shops, restaurants, and stores open during Tet as normal

During Tet,  Vietnamese often spend time going home, being with family, and seeing friends or travelling. They stop working. That’s why you see streets are empty on the first day of Tet. Also, most shops, restaurants, and tourist attractions close for several days, especially during the first few days of Tet. This can cause inconvenience if you want to buy some necessary things. 

Many coffee shops are decorated beautifully during tet 

However, not all shops close during Tet. Nowadays, with tourism development, more international tourists come to Vietnam. People in tourism still work during Tet to serve tourists' needs. Also, many coffee shops, restaurants, and stores open during Tet as normal. After the 3 first days, other shops and restaurants start to reopen, with more options available by the end of the Tet holiday.

Should I visit Vietnam during Tet?

Bai Dinh Pagoda at Tet with lots of activities 

Travelling to Vietnam during Tet holiday can be a rewarding experience if you love the festive atmosphere. Tet is the biggest and most important holiday in Vietnam. It offers a unique chance to witness traditional celebrations, colourful decorations with peach and apricot blossoms, lion dances, and vibrant flower markets. Many tourist attractions offer special Tet events and shows. You can also participate in unique activities like visiting temples and seeing how local people worship their ancestors. 

However, be prepared for potentially higher prices for accommodation and transportation during Tet.

Where is the best place to go for Tet in Vietnam?

Let’s see the top 4 Tet travel destinations in Vietnam:

Hanoi during Tet

Firework display at Hoan Kiem Lake at Tet

Hanoi is one of the best places to spend tet in Vietnam. The streets are full of colourful lanterns, flowers, and decorations. People buy red lanterns, peach blossoms, and kumquat trees hoping for good luck and prosperity in the New Year. There are many historic places in Hanoi and you can act like local people by visiting ancient temples and pagodas to offer prayers for good health, happiness, and success in the new year.

One special thing is that Hanoi is a big city, people from the neighbourhood come here to work and study. At Tet, they come back to their hometown, so Hanoi looks less crowned and bustled than normal days. It’s an interesting experience for sure. 

Hang Ma Street in Hanoi Old Quarter at Tet

Here are some places you can visit in Hanoi in Tet: 

• Tran Quoc Pagoda on West Lake
• Old Quarter streets
• Hang Ma Street 
• Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple
• Phung Hung Mural Street
• Quang Ba Flower Market
• Flower markets 
• Hanoi Temple of Literature

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Sapa during Tet

Sapa is lovely at any time of year, but it's especially magic during Tet. The mountains are covered in mist and the valleys are filled with peach blossoms. You will see how ethnic minority groups prepare for Tet Holiday. Their traditional Tet is different from people in big cities. 

Top Places to Visit in Sapa during Tet: 

• Sapa Town Center
• Ham Rong Mountain
• Fansipan Peak - the Roof of Indochina
• Muong Hoa Valley
• O Quy Ho Pass
• Traditional Festival of Ethnic Minorities
• Cat Cat Village and Ta Phin Village 
• Lao Chai and Ta Van Villages
• Bac Ha Market

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Sapa Tour 2 days 1 night by the morning early bus (Cat Cat- Lao Chai - Ta Van) 

Hoi An during Tet

The Old Town of Hoi An stays open during Tet. It experiences a slightly higher level of activity than usual, as many Vietnamese choose to become tourists in their own country during this holiday. Hoi An stands out as one of their preferred Tet holiday destinations. However, Hoi An is a must-visit place because it features traditional beauty during Tet, bringing you a cultural atmosphere and relaxing feeling when walking around the old yellow streets. 

If you travel to Hoi An during Tet, don’t forget to visit: 

• Hoi An Ancient Town
• Cau An Hoi Bridge
• Japanese Covered Bridge (Chua Cau)
• Night Market
• Assembly Halls
• Temples and Pagodas
• Boat Ride on the Thu Bon River
• An Bang Beach
• Local Homes and Villages

Ninh Binh during Tet

Ninh Binh is the home of ancient temples and pagodas, all of which are adorned with traditional decorations during Tet. For instance, the Trang An boat dock and ticketing area are embellished with vibrant lanterns, kumquat trees, and fresh flowers. This festive atmosphere extends to other renowned sites in Ninh Binh, including the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, Mua Cave, Tam Coc-Bich Dong, and Bai Dinh.

If you're travelling to Ninh Binh during Tet, make sure to visit:

• Trang An Landscape Complex
• Tam Coc Boat Trip 
• Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
• Bich Dong Pagoda
• Bai Dinh Pagoda
• Thung Nham Bird Park
• Cuc Phuong National Park

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How is the Lunar New Year in Ninh Binh? Tips and recommendations.

Tet holiday in vietnam - travel tips.

Tet is colourful and joyful but is best enjoyed when you plan well. There are some things to keep in mind when travelling to Vietnam during Lunar New Year:  

Visa Application to Vietnam

Submit your visa application at the earliest opportunity. The visa authority, including Vietnamese embassies, consulates, and Immigration offices, will be closed at Tet. Therefore, it is advisable to apply at least 2-3 weeks before the Tet Holiday. 

Book your accommodation in advance 

Remember to make reservations for hotels in advance. Due to the large number of tourists coming to Vietnam during Tet celebration, you need to secure rooms in famous destinations such as Hanoi, Sapa, Hanoi… Apart from international tourists coming to Vietnam this time, the long holiday period allows local people to travel, making beautiful places more crowded than usual. 

Prepare enough necessary things 

While in famous tourist attractions, shops and restaurants are still open, some shops close during Tet. Especially in the countryside, it’s hard to find the things you need in the first 3 days of New Year. Besides, the price during Tet might be higher than the normal days. So, if you need medicine, clothes, shoes or snacks you should buy them in advance. 

The last thing you should prepare for your trip is to be ready for all surprises. It’s time to enjoy local festivities and Tet specialities. Joining Tet events and trying local food such as Banh Chung is a way to discover local life.  

Hope that the suggestion of the Best places to go in Vietnam for Tet gives you some idea to plan your trip to Vietnam. Don’t hesitate, let's pack your luggage and fly to Vietnam for this New Year Event. See you soon! 

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If we survive Tet the intention is to move up the coast to take in Hoi An /An Bang/ then Hue before flying back to HCM and home to the UK. What have we missed? Better options?

Thanks in advance.

5 replies to this topic

Being from the UK, you'll be fine but I can tell you, for your average Vietnamese, that would be regarded as being on the cool side. I've known them to put on coats/jumper when I've had T-shirt etc on.

Be aware that Tết Holiday is kind of fluid depending on the days of the week it falls in relation to the weekends. Travel will be your most difficult option as trains and planes book up quick.

Tet is my favourite time in HCMC . Yes a lot of stuff is closed for a few days but enough stuff stays open and once the first 2 or 3 days is passed more and .ore stuff opens. It's not a massive deal.

An alternative for you is to base yourself in a larger resort on PQ for tet. Stuff in the resort will be open and you'll be able to explore on wheels and spend some time chilling on the beaches eating delicous seafood. Once stuff starts to open continue with your trip. Just avoid Long Beach which is over touristed. Look around Dung Do or Ong Lang. Either way enoy!

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I've traveled to 9 out of 10 countries in Southeast Asia. Here are the 5 biggest mistakes I made along the way.

• I've traveled solo to nine countries in Southeast Asia.
• I've made many mistakes, from traveling during monsoon season to forgetting to bring enough cash.
• Travelers should make sure they plan ahead and research each country's culture.

Over the last two years, my journey as a travel enthusiast and Business Insider's travel reporter in Singapore has brought me to almost every country in Southeast Asia.

In total, there are 10 countries in Southeast Asia , and I've traveled to nine of them — Singapore, Philippines, Malaysia, Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia, Cambodia, Laos, and Brunei. Myanmar remains the only country in the region I have not visited, and while I am keen to explore it, I have held off on visiting because of the country's ongoing civil war.

I've watched the sun rise in Angkor Wat in Cambodia and cared for elephants in Chiang Mai, Thailand. I've explored the Bornean jungle in Brunei and crawled the Cu Chi Tunnels in southern Vietnam.

But it hasn't always been easy. I've made several mistakes traveling across the region , especially as a solo traveler. Here are five mistakes I made and how to avoid them.

1. Going during monsoon season and not planning for the weather.

In July, I traveled to Thailand on a reporting trip to cover the budding cannabis industry . There, I was met with heavy rain nearly every day. In Bangkok, I was staying in a hostel in Chakkrawat , a district with narrow, meandering streets, which made it difficult to walk anywhere in the pouring rain.

I didn't plan for the weather, so I didn't have an umbrella or poncho with me and had to rush to get one at the last minute. I also had a packed itinerary with a lot of travel between meetings, which was a hassle in the constant downpour.

Before traveling to Southeast Asia, make sure to avoid two seasons — the monsoon season, which often comes with strong typhoons in countries like the Philippines, and the burning season, where farmers burn land for fertile soil. This is a common occurrence in countries like Laos, Thailand, and the island of Borneo, which is shared between Brunei, Indonesia, and Malaysia.

When I traveled to Laos in April last year during the burning season , most of my plans — including a hot air balloon ride — were canceled because of the thick smog. I also didn't have an N95 mask with me, and I ended up with a sore throat.

If you do plan to come during these seasons, make sure to pack accordingly and plan a flexible schedule.

2. Traveling during Ramadan and expecting the same practices everywhere.

Having grown up in Singapore, I'm familiar with the practices during Ramadan , the holy month for Muslims, where they fast for most of the day. I studied Malay for seven years, and in school, I often fasted with my Muslim classmates and ate only in private.

Still, in many cities in Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia , non-Muslims are free to dine in public, so long as they do so respectfully. But on my trip to Brunei in April — at the height of the burning season and in the middle of Ramadan — there were more practices I needed to observe.

Most restaurants were closed, and diners weren't allowed to eat there even if they were open — only take-out was allowed. Eating in public was a major faux pas even for non-Muslims, and if you want to drink some water, you can only do so when nobody is around.

It wasn't easy, especially as Brunei was sweltering at 100 degrees Fahrenheit on some days. I made do by returning to the hotel for lunch and grabbing a big dinner with the locals at the night market after they had broken their fast.

3. Not packing enough modest outfits when visiting temples and mosques.

Southeast Asia is pretty liberal, and you can wear whatever you want in many places. In popular destinations like Phuket, Thailand, and Bali, Indonesia, lots of tourists walk around in bikini tops and shorts, and locals mostly tolerate it.

But there are certain places you do need to cover up, like places of worship, which include temples and mosques. When I visited Angkor Wat — the famed temple complex in Cambodia — in February last year, I found some tourists being told off by the local tour guides for wearing shorts and tank tops — "Tomb Raider" style.

I've learned to err on the right side of caution and bring a sarong wherever I go. It's an easy way to cover up and make an outfit more modest when you need to.

4. Forgetting to pack medication, especially when I plan to eat street food.

Southeast Asia has some of the world's most flavorful food. In every country, you can find food that is cheap and delicious, and that includes Singapore , the world's most expensive city. In countries like Malaysia and Vietnam, street food dishes can cost as little as a dollar.

I eat mostly street food when I travel in Southeast Asia, so medicine for tummy-related illnesses is a must. I've only gotten sick twice from eating street food — and it was the same dish both times— and unfortunately, those were the few times I didn't have medicine with me.

I'm a pretty adventurous eater. I've eaten everything from pufferfish stew to frog porridge and dishes made with intestines off the street. I've learned to wash the utensils provided before digging in and make sure the food is cooked to order and heated up before being served.

5. Relying on my card and not bringing enough cash with me.

In Singapore, I don't really use cash and often use Apple Pay, mobile payments, and cards. But I've found that many stores in other countries in Southeast Asia only accept cash.

For example, on my third trip to Vietnam, I spent an hour trying to make payment via bank transfer after the staff at a luxury perfume shop — which was selling items priced upwards of $200 — informed me at the last minute that they didn't accept card or contactless payment.

I've also found the majority of street vendors in the region only accept mobile payment — which is limited to local banks — or cash. I've learned to change a considerable amount of money before leaving the airport and keep whatever I didn't use for my next trip.

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Scandal shadows Andrew Do’s final year on the O.C Board of Supervisors

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Andrew Do squeaked onto the Orange County Board of Supervisors by 43 votes in 2015, defeating a veteran politician to become the second Vietnamese American ever to serve on the board.

He did so by waging an aggressive voter registration campaign, making himself ubiquitous in Little Saigon’s Vietnamese-language media and sharing a backstory many found familiar. As a child, he had fled Vietnam equipped with little more than English and French dictionaries.

In the years since, he has been one of Southern California’s most prominent Vietnamese American politicians, touting the fight against homelessness as one of his signature achievements. When the county reached a landmark settlement in federal court with advocates for the homeless in 2019, coupling anti-camping laws with outreach services, Do was the face of the government effort .

But in the final year of his second full term — his last on the board — he has been dogged by allegations of impropriety. Community groups and the Orange County Register have called for his resignation . He has responded with invective against the press, including the LAist reporter who broke the story that he had directed millions of dollars to a nonprofit linked to his 22-year-old daughter , without revealing her role in the nonprofit.

In November, around the time of that disclosure, Do made a disastrous court appearance where he again failed to disclose a potential conflict of interest involving his family, leading the judge to declare a mistrial in a lawsuit involving a homeless services center.

Andrew Do wins seat on Orange County Board of Supervisors

Former Garden Grove Councilman Andrew Do has won a seat on the Orange County Board of Supervisors, which would make the panel the first Asian American majority in Southern California, according to unofficial results in Friday’s special election.

Jan. 30, 2015

Do is now facing an uncertain political future. In a sign of his waning influence, his chosen successor for his supervisor’s seat failed to place in the top two in the March primary.

“I have trouble trusting what his office is doing when it seems to be a massive redistribution of wealth from taxpayers to his family members,” said Jodi Balma, a professor of political science at Fullerton College.

The Viet America Society, which registered in 2020 , claims its mission is to feed needy people, provide mental health services and promote Vietnamese culture.

Do’s daughter, Rhiannon Do, now a law student at UC Irvine, has been listed on paperwork variously as its president, vice president or “case manager/program assistant.”

The nonprofit has failed to produce a legally required audit, making it unclear how the millions in county-allocated funds, including federal money earmarked for COVID-19 relief, were spent.

On its face, at least, Do’s behavior does not run afoul of county policies, which allow supervisors to direct money to nonprofits run by their adult children without telling the public about the relationship.

The county does not seem poised to change its rules any time soon. Ethics rules proposed by Supervisor Vicente Sarmiento in January were voted down by the board.

“If the county of Orange broke no rules, we need rules,” Balma said. “If Andrew Do broke no rules, we need rules to make sure this never happens again.”

In September 2022, with the five supervisors’ districts splitting federal coronavirus relief funds earmarked for “social needs,” the board voted unanimously to approve $6.9 million in discretionary funds for Do’s district.

According to public records obtained by The Times, Do’s office sent $2.2 million of that money to the Viet America Society between December 2022 and March 2023 and an additional $1 million in October 2023 for a Vietnam War Memorial. The board had decided that proper uses for the coronavirus relief money included parks, infrastructure, “projects and programs.”

Amid mounting pressure, O.C. struggles to craft homeless shelter plan

Two Orange County supervisors Monday urged cities to come forward with possible locations for temporary homeless shelters as pressure mounts to house people removed from Santa Ana River encampments.

April 2, 2018

In June 2023, the board voted unanimously to approve $3 million in discretionary funds, this time from the county’s general fund, for each of the districts. Do directed his $3 million to the Viet America Society in August 2023.

According to LAist, the news site that has spearheaded reporting on the controversy, Do has directed as much as $13.5 million in government money to the nonprofit, often without placing it on a public agenda and without disclosing his daughter’s connection to the group.

Sterling Winchell, an attorney representing Viet America Society, said the nonprofit is commissioning an audit on the federal funds, adding that the group remains in good standing.

“If I have anything to say about it, they’re going to remain in good standing,” Winchell said. “I’m going to make sure this gets fixed.”

Winchell said he did not know exactly how much money was actually delivered to the nonprofit. He said it “could be true” that $13.5 million was allocated, but not distributed. “If you don’t do the job, you’re not getting 5 cents,” he said.

Though Rhiannon Do’s name has appeared in Viet America Society paperwork intermittently as an officer, Winchell said she had only worked as a case manager and administrator at Warner Wellness Center — the nonprofit’s business name — at an annual salary of $18,000.

Asked why Rhiannon Do signed her name under the title “president” of Viet America Society on a county agreement in December 2022, Winchell said it was a mistake. “She didn’t know what she was signing,” he said.

Andrew Do did not return calls for comment. He represents Orange County’s 1st District, a large and diverse area including Cypress, Fountain Valley, Garden Grove, Huntington Beach, La Palma, Los Alamitos, Westminster and Seal Beach. One of the signature events he sponsors is the free Tet Festival at Mile Square Regional Park in Fountain Valley, which draws thousands of people annually.

According to Supervisor Do’s Facebook page, his daughter Rhiannon graduated from high school in June 2019 and went to UC Davis. She was an intern at the Steinberg Institute from fall 2020 to spring 2021. A website for the Women’s Law Society at UC Irvine lists her as a member.

The Orange County Register’s editorial board, which repeatedly endorsed Andrew Do during his campaigns, called for his resignation in November, writing that “it’s impossible to ignore the pattern of cronyism and corruption that has been repeatedly affirmed.”

In an opinion piece of his own , Do accused the Register of spreading “gross misinformation.”

He wrote that the Register and the LAist reporter, Nick Gerda, got facts wrong, “radically” inflating the amount of the county contracts at issue, and failing to note that Viet America Society had been under three COVID-related county contracts “well before my daughter was hired as an employee to help run its mental health clinic.”

“Of note, my daughter was not a director or officer and she did not handle any of the non-profit’s finances,” he wrote.

Do’s story is well-known. His family fled Saigon during the communist takeover in 1975 and settled in Orange County, and he went on to earn a law degree at UC Hastings College of the Law. He worked as a prosecutor, ran a sandwich shop and served on the Garden Grove City Council from 2008 to 2011.

Do served as Janet Nguyen’s chief of staff during her stint as 1st District Supervisor and enjoyed her endorsement when he ran to replace her in a special election in 2015. He came into the race with far less name recognition than that of his opponent, former state Sen. Lou Correa (D-Santa Ana), and beat him by a thin margin.

He won a full term in 2016 and again in 2020. Termed out in January, he endorsed his chief of staff, Van Tran, to replace him in District 1. But Tran was eliminated in March, with Nguyen, now a state senator, winning 43% of the vote in the race for her old seat and heading for a November runoff against Frances Marquez.

Balma, the Fullerton College professor, said Tran’s connection to Do likely cost him votes. If not for Do’s scandals, “there were many people who might have supported Van Tran to continue what Andrew Do had been doing,” she said.

The Harbor Institute for Immigrant and Economic Justice, a community group, is among those calling for Do’s resignation.

“Years later, we still have no idea how those millions and millions of dollars were spent,” said Mai Nguyen Do, the group’s research and policy manager, who is not related to the supervisor. “Every day, we seem to have more questions about how these dollars were allocated.”

Do has been caught up in other controversies in recent years. In 2022, he ran afoul of the Fair Political Practices Commission, which fined him $12,000 for using his official position with the CalOptima board to approve the extension of a lobbying contract to a campaign contributor.

In 2015, Do was accused of not living in the district he represents, but Do called it “baseless” and the O.C. district attorney’s office cleared him.

Sarmiento, a Democrat, who joined the unanimous board vote in June 2023 to approve the $3 million in discretionary funds to Viet America Society, told The Times that he did so “prior to any disclosure” that the nonprofit was linked to Do’s daughter “or that the contract with VAS would raise other ethical concerns.”

At a meeting in January, the board deadlocked 2-2 on Sarmiento’s proposal to require that supervisors reveal close family connections when money is awarded. Do left the room before the vote.

Voting against it was board chair Donald Wagner, who said he sees nothing wrong with what Do has done.

“I think what has been reported is frankly being blown out of proportion,” said Wagner, a Republican like Do. “Clearly, he didn’t violate the law. Nobody has said that he has. The question really is whether [Viet America Society] is doing the job. There are questions. They are a relatively small operation, and we don’t have the accounting from them, which is disappointing.”

Wagner said he was not aware that Do’s daughter had any connection to Viet America Society, “tangential or not,” when he voted to approve the discretionary funds.

“He never did try to exert any influence on me,” Wagner said. “By and large, we’re given the discretionary money, and we’re allowed to spend it as we deem appropriate.”

Wagner said Do’s legacy will outlast this controversy and that people will remember his leading role in clearing homeless encampments from riverbeds and the courthouse plaza. He said he is waiting for Viet America Society’s audit of its finances, too.

“I am expecting it literally any day now,” Wagner said. “I don’t know what it will say. Hopefully it will say the county got bang for its buck.”

More to Read

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March 20, 2024

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March 16, 2024

Column: The legacy — and disappointment — of Katie Porter’s Orange County revolution

March 8, 2024

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Christopher Goffard is an author and a staff writer for the Los Angeles Times. He shared in the 2011 Pulitzer Prize for the paper’s Bell coverage and has twice been a Pulitzer finalist for feature writing, in 2007 and 2014. His novel “Snitch Jacket” was a finalist for the Edgar Allan Poe Award for Best First Novel. His book “You Will See Fire: A Search for Justice in Kenya,” based on his Times series, was published in 2011.

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