Tet, also known as Vietnamese Lunar New Year, is the most significant celebration in Vietnam. It marks the start of the lunar calendar, usually in late January or early February, and is celebrated with incredible enthusiasm and a wealth of local events. If you’re travelling during Tet, it’s essential to witness the festive spirit in various cities across Vietnam. From traditional customs to modern celebrations, these Tet holiday events offer a unique insight into the country’s culture and traditions.
In this article, we’ll guide you through the must-see local events during Tet, so you can experience the magic of Lunar New Year in Vietnam in all its glory.
1. Tet Parades and Festivals
Tet parades are among the most exciting local events during Tet. Major cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Hue host vibrant parades featuring colorful floats, traditional music, lion dances, and dragon performances. These parades are designed to welcome the New Year with joy and good luck.
Hanoi is particularly famous for its Tet parade in the Old Quarter, where the streets come alive with Lunar New Year festivities. The Tet holiday atmosphere here is filled with bustling markets, street performances, and families preparing for the celebrations. Lion dances performed in front of homes and businesses symbolize the removal of bad spirits and the welcoming of a prosperous year.
Ho Chi Minh City also has an impressive parade that brings together a mix of cultural traditions and modern entertainment. The Tet festival in the city center is a must-see event, with vibrant decorations, street markets, and cultural performances.
2. Bieu Diem Festival in Hue
If you find yourself in central Vietnam, the Bieu Diem Festival in Hue is an event you shouldn’t miss. This festival is a beautiful combination of local traditions and royal ceremonies that date back to the Nguyen Dynasty. The Tet holiday in Hue is marked with performances of traditional music, royal dances, and parades that recreate the grandiose atmosphere of the imperial court.
The festival often features traditional Vietnamese costumes, drum performances, and elaborate Tet food offerings. Participating in the Bieu Diem Festival will allow you to immerse yourself in a royal celebration of Lunar New Year that’s unique to Hue.
3. Tet Markets: Traditional Goods and Festive Foods
One of the best ways to experience the Tet holiday in Vietnam is by visiting Tet markets. These markets are bustling hubs where locals buy fresh flowers, Tet food, and goods for the New Year celebrations. In cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, you’ll find Tet markets that specialize in selling peach blossoms, kumquat trees, and Tet cakes (Banh Chung and Banh Tet), which are symbolic of the holiday.
The atmosphere in these markets is vibrant, with street vendors selling delicious local foods such as Vietnamese spring rolls and roast pork. Visiting these markets allows you to engage with locals and discover the various Tet customs that play a central role in the celebrations.
4. The Fireworks Display in Ho Chi Minh City
In Ho Chi Minh City, the Lunar New Year festivities reach a grand climax with a spectacular fireworks display. Held at locations such as the Saigon River, the fireworks light up the sky, marking the beginning of the new year and symbolizing the removal of bad luck. This display is accompanied by music and dance performances, making it a memorable event for both locals and tourists alike.
If you’re travelling during Tet, be sure to witness this breathtaking fireworks display and enjoy the festive mood that fills the air.
5. Family Reunions and Tet Feast
While public events are a huge part of Tet holiday celebrations, nothing beats the intimacy and warmth of a family reunion during Lunar New Year in Vietnam. Families come together to pay respects to their ancestors, exchange gifts, and enjoy a lavish Tet feast.
If you’re visiting rural areas, consider participating in a local family gathering. You’ll get a firsthand look at Tet traditions, such as offering food to ancestors, singing Tet songs, and enjoying a variety of traditional Tet dishes. Being part of a Tet holiday feast is a truly authentic way to experience the cultural significance of the holiday.
6. Traditional Tet Performances: Music and Dance
Traditional music and dance performances are a vital part of Tet celebrations. In many regions, you can enjoy performances such as water puppetry, folk music, and traditional Vietnamese opera. These performances are a fantastic way to dive into the rich cultural heritage of Vietnam and witness the artistry that has been passed down through generations.
In Hanoi, the traditional puppet shows at Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre are a perfect example of Lunar New Year entertainment. The shows are both entertaining and educational, providing insight into Vietnamese folklore and mythology.
FAQ: Common Questions About Tet Holiday in Vietnam
1. What is the Tet holiday in Vietnam?
Tet, also known as Vietnamese Lunar New Year, marks the beginning of the lunar calendar. It is the most significant holiday in Vietnam, celebrated with festivals, family reunions, and cultural activities. Travelling during Tet allows you to experience the country’s vibrant traditions and festivities.
2. When is the best time to travel during Tet?
Tet usually falls between late January and early February, depending on the lunar calendar. The best time to travel is in the days leading up to the holiday when Tet festivals are in full swing and the country is buzzing with excitement.
3. What are the must-see events during Tet?
Must-see events include Tet parades in major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, the Bieu Diem Festival in Hue, fireworks displays in Ho Chi Minh City, and visiting the lively Tet markets to see traditional goods and festive foods.
4. How do Vietnamese celebrate Tet?
Vietnamese families celebrate Tet by gathering for a Tet feast, offering food to ancestors, participating in Tet parades, and enjoying cultural performances. It’s a time for renewal, reflection, and family bonding.
Experience the magic of Tet in Vietnam with our Tet holiday tour, and immerse yourself in the local events, culture, and festivities.
Book now for an unforgettable Lunar New Year adventure in Vietnam.
