Vietnam’s Tet holiday, the Vietnamese Lunar New Year, is a vibrant, colorful time of celebration that attracts both locals and travelers worldwide. During this festive period, the country becomes alive with cultural traditions, special events, and extraordinary festivals that are deeply rooted in the country’s history and culture. For those considering travelling during Tet, experiencing the Lunar New Year in Vietnam offers an opportunity to witness the country’s rich heritage and spirit of togetherness.
In this article, we will explore the top Tet festivals that you must experience when visiting Vietnam during the Tet holiday.
1. Tet Nguyen Dan – The Traditional Lunar New Year Festival
The most well-known festival during the Tet holiday is the Tet Nguyen Dan or the Vietnamese Lunar New Year itself. This festival marks the beginning of the lunar calendar and is celebrated with immense joy across the nation. It is one of the largest holidays in Vietnam, where people return to their families, partake in rituals to honor their ancestors, and welcome the new year with open arms.
Where to Experience Tet Nguyen Dan: While Tet Nguyen Dan is celebrated nationwide, the most significant celebrations can be found in major cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Hue. These cities are filled with decorations, traditional foods, and cultural events that highlight the spirit of travelling during Tet.
Why Visit? Visiting Vietnam during this period allows you to see how the local people welcome the new year with fireworks, family gatherings, and countless cultural activities, such as the Tet dragon dances, lion dances, and various performances honoring ancestors.
2. Hanoi’s Old Quarter Tet Market
One of the most popular and unique Tet festivals is held in Hanoi’s Old Quarter. The Tet market in Hanoi is where locals and tourists alike gather to purchase decorations, flowers, and Tet holiday foods. The bustling market is full of energy, with vibrant red and gold decorations symbolizing good luck and prosperity for the upcoming year.
What to Expect: At the market, you’ll find Tet flowers like peach blossoms, kumquat trees, and chrysanthemums, all traditionally associated with Lunar New Year in Vietnam. There are also stalls selling Tet sweets, and tourists can enjoy local delicacies such as banh chung (square sticky rice cake) and banh tet (cylindrical sticky rice cake).
3. Hoi An Lantern Festival
The Hoi An Lantern Festival takes place on the 14th day of the lunar calendar every month, but it is especially enchanting during the Tet holiday. Known for its historical charm, Hoi An is illuminated with hundreds of colorful lanterns, creating a magical atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
Where to Celebrate: Hoi An, located in central Vietnam, is renowned for its beautifully preserved ancient town, which becomes even more stunning during Tet. The streets are filled with stunning lanterns in red, yellow, and gold—colors that symbolize good fortune, happiness, and wealth in Vietnamese culture.
Why Experience It? The Hoi An Lantern Festival provides a perfect blend of tradition and beauty. The streets are filled with lantern-lit rivers, traditional performances, and joyful crowds, making it a must-see festival during the Lunar New Year in Vietnam.
4. Tet Dragon Dance in Ho Chi Minh City
If you’re looking for an exciting festival full of action, the Tet dragon dance in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) is a spectacular event to witness. This dance is often accompanied by loud drumbeats, symbolizing the expulsion of evil spirits to ensure a prosperous and lucky year ahead.
When to Visit: The dragon dance is most commonly seen in the districts of Cholon and Ben Thanh Market, where the streets come alive with dragon and lion dances. This festival is an excellent opportunity for travelling during Tet to see the most dynamic and energetic displays.
How It Works: Performers dressed as dragons move in unison, swirling through the streets in an energetic and colorful display. It’s not only a traditional performance but also a social event where both locals and visitors come together to celebrate.
5. Tet Fireworks in Hue
Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam, celebrates the Tet holiday with a grand display of fireworks that light up the sky. The event is especially spectacular at Huong River, where the reflection of fireworks on the water adds an ethereal touch to the celebration.
What Makes It Special: This festival combines the grandeur of Tet holiday celebrations with the majestic history of the city. Watching the fireworks by the river while enjoying local delicacies provides a magical experience that encapsulates both modern and ancient Vietnam.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What are the best cities to visit during the Tet holiday?
The best cities to visit during Tet include Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Hue, and Hoi An. Each offers unique celebrations, from vibrant markets to dragon dances and lantern festivals.
2. Is it expensive to travel to Vietnam during Tet?
Yes, travelling during Tet can be expensive due to the high demand for flights and accommodations. However, booking early can help secure better deals.
3. What should I do to prepare for travelling during Tet?
It is important to book your flights and accommodation well in advance, as many local services may be closed or fully booked during the Tet holiday. Be sure to also pack appropriately for the festive weather.
4. Can I experience traditional Vietnamese food during Tet?
Absolutely! During the Tet holiday, traditional foods like banh chung, banh tet, and various sweets are available in abundance, especially in major cities and Tet markets.
5. Are Tet festivals family-friendly?
Yes, Tet festivals are very family-friendly, with plenty of cultural performances, traditional rituals, and fun activities suitable for all ages.
Ready to explore the magic of Tet festivals in Vietnam?
Book our Vietnam Tet Holiday Tour today to experience these incredible celebrations firsthand!
