Tet Nguyen Dan, or the Vietnamese Lunar New Year, is the most significant and festive time in Vietnam. If you’re planning to visit Vietnam during Tet, you’ll experience a unique combination of cultural traditions, family reunions, delicious food, and exciting events. Here’s a travel guide with specific places to visit and activities to do during Tet in Vietnam’s major cities: Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Hue.
1. Hanoi: Tet Celebrations in the Capital
Where to Visit:
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Old Quarter (Pho Co):
Hanoi’s Old Quarter is a must-see during Tet. The streets are lined with flower markets, including the famous Cho Hoa (Flower Market) on Hàng Lược Street, where you can find vibrant peach blossoms, kumquat trees, and other festive decorations. This market is open several days before Tet, making it the perfect place to see locals prepare for the new year.
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Hoan Kiem Lake:
On New Year’s Eve, Hoan Kiem Lake becomes a hub for Tet celebrations. There are usually dragon dances, performances, and an exciting atmosphere as locals gather to welcome the new year. The lake is beautifully lit, making it a great spot for photos.
Where to Eat:
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Chả Cá Lã Vọng:
A traditional Hanoi restaurant famous for its signature dish, Chả Cá, which is grilled fish served with herbs and noodles. It’s a great place to experience authentic Hanoi flavors during Tet. You can enjoy Cha ca La Vong at Cha ca Ha Thanh, address: 67 Pho Duc Chinh, Ba Dinh, Hanoi.
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Bánh Chưng at Local Markets:
For an authentic Tet experience, try bánh chưng (square sticky rice cake) at local markets like Cho Dong Xuan (Dong Xuan Market is a market located in the Old Quarter of Hanoi, in Dong Xuan ward, Hoan Kiem district). These cakes are a staple of Tet meals.
What to Do:
- Tet Fireworks at Hoan Kiem Lake:
If you’re in Hanoi on New Year’s Eve, head to Hoan Kiem Lake to witness spectacular fireworks at midnight. The show is part of the city’s grand Tet celebrations.
2. Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC): Vibrant Tet Festivities in the South
Where to Visit:
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Nguyen Hue Walking Street (District 1):
This pedestrian street in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City is beautifully decorated for Tet. During the holiday season, you’ll find an elaborate flower display, street performances, and cultural activities. It’s a great place to see the festive spirit of the city.
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Ben Thanh Market:
Located in District 1, this iconic market is a great place to buy Tet-related goods, from decorations to Tet food. It’s a busy spot in the days leading up to the holiday and provides a perfect opportunity to shop for souvenirs.
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Cholon (District 5):
Cholon, the city’s Chinatown, is another vibrant area during Tet. Expect to see red lanterns, dragon dances, and temple visits as the local Chinese-Vietnamese community celebrates the new year with traditional rituals.
Where to Eat:
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Com Tam Ba Ghien:
Known for its Com Tam (broken rice), this is one of Ho Chi Minh City’s favorite spots for a hearty Vietnamese meal. During Tet, many restaurants like this one offer special dishes to celebrate the holiday. Address: 84 Dang Van Ngu Street, Ward 10, Phu Nhuan District, Ho Chi Minh City. -
Bánh Tét in the South:
While in Ho Chi Minh City, don’t miss trying bánh tét (cylinder-shaped sticky rice cake). Head to Chợ Bà Chiểu – Ba Chieu Market is a large market located in the central area of Binh Thanh District, Ho Chi Minh City or Chợ Tân Định markets for the freshest versions.
What to Do:
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Tet Fireworks at Bitexco Tower:
For a stunning view of Tet Nguyen Dan fireworks in Ho Chi Minh City, visit the Bitexco Financial Tower. The tower often hosts a rooftop celebration, where you can watch fireworks light up the sky.
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Tet Parade on Nguyen Hue Street:
Join the crowds during the Tet parade along Nguyen Hue Street, where traditional dragon dances and performances take place. It’s a lively event full of color and music.
3. Hue: Traditional Tet in the Former Imperial Capital
Where to Visit:
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Imperial City (Kinh Thanh Hue):
Hue, known for its ancient imperial history, is one of the best places to experience a more traditional Tet. During the holiday, the Imperial City hosts cultural performances and exhibitions, showcasing royal customs and rituals associated with Tet. This is the place to learn about how the imperial family celebrated the new year.
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Truong Tien Bridge:
The iconic Truong Tien Bridge is a beautiful spot to visit during Tet, especially in the evening when the bridge is lit up. During Tet, local events and performances often take place here.
Where to Eat:
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Bánh Khoái (Hue Pancake):
Hue is famous for its unique cuisine, and bánh khoái (Hue pancake) is a must-try. This crispy pancake is filled with shrimp, pork, and vegetables, then dipped in a delicious peanut sauce. Banh khoai restaurant Hanh, address: 11 – 15 Pho Duc Chinh, Phu Hoi, Hue is a famous restaurant and visited by many tourists. -
Bánh Bèo and Bánh Nậm:
In the days leading up to Tet, you’ll find traditional dishes like bánh bèo (steamed rice cakes with shrimp) and bánh nậm (flat rice cakes) at restaurants along the Sông Hương (Perfume River). Ba Do – A delicious banh nam restaurant in Hue, over 10 years old, located at No. 8 Nguyen Binh Khiem Street, Phu Cat Ward, Hue City.
What to Do:
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Tet Nguyen Dan at Thien Mu Pagoda:
Visit Thien Mu Pagoda, one of the oldest and most beautiful pagodas in Vietnam. During Tet, locals visit the pagoda to pray for prosperity and health for the new year. The serene surroundings make it a peaceful spot for reflection.
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Traditional Music Performances:
Hue is known for its royal court music, Nhã nhạc, which is performed during Tet in various cultural venues around the city, including the Imperial City and pagodas.
4. General Tips for Enjoying Tet as a Tourist
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Tet Markets:
No matter where you are in Vietnam during Tet, visiting a local market is a must. In addition to flowers, you can find Tết foods, decorations, and traditional items. Markets like Cho Ben Thanh (HCMC), Cho Dong Xuan (Hanoi), and Cho Hoa (Hanoi) are particularly lively.
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Tet Events and Performances:
Look out for Tet parades, fireworks, dragon dances, and cultural performances in major cities. These are the highlights of the holiday and offer a chance to see Vietnamese traditions up close. -
Respect Local Customs:
Tet is a time of family and tradition. If invited to a local home, it’s polite to bring a small gift like fruit or sweets. Also, remember that many businesses will be closed for a few days, so plan accordingly.
Tet Nguyen Dan 2025: Celebrating the Lunar New Year in Vietnam
- Tet Nguyen Dan, the Vietnamese Lunar New Year, will be celebrated in 2025 from January 29th, marking the beginning of the Year of the Snake. This is the most significant holiday in Vietnam, a time for families to reunite, honor their ancestors, and wish for prosperity in the coming year. Tet is filled with rich traditions such as cleaning and decorating homes to invite good fortune, preparing and enjoying traditional foods like bánh chưng and bánh tét, and exchanging red envelopes filled with money to bring luck to children. The first days of the new year are reserved for family, reflection, and welcoming new beginnings.
- For international visitors, it’s important to be prepared for the festivities. Many businesses, restaurants, and shops may be closed during the Tet Nguyen Dan holiday, especially on the first few days. It’s advisable to plan your accommodation and transportation in advance. Embrace the local customs by visiting flower markets, participating in Tet celebrations, and trying traditional foods. If you’re invited to join a local family for a meal, bringing a small gift such as fruits or sweets is a thoughtful gesture. Remember to show respect for local traditions and enjoy the lively and welcoming atmosphere of one of Vietnam’s most cherished holidays.
Conclusion
Tet Nguyen Dan is one of the best times to visit Vietnam, offering a vibrant mix of culture, tradition, food, and celebrations. Whether you’re exploring the flower markets in Hanoi, enjoying the fireworks in Ho Chi Minh City, or experiencing the royal customs in Hue, you’ll have an unforgettable experience. Make sure to plan ahead, respect local customs, and embrace the festive spirit to fully enjoy this unique cultural celebration!
