Known as Tet Nguyen Dan, the Lunar New Year has long been a vital traditional holiday in Vietnam. Not only an occasion when Vietnamese families spend time reuniting & honoring their ancestors, Lunar New Year celebration is a splendid tapestry of traditions, feasts, and cultural rituals.
Despite the official celebration lasting 5-7 days, if you arrive in Vietnam one month earlier, you will undoubtedly sense the Tet atmosphere seeping into every nook and cranny, from the right to the left and to the center. For those keen on learning the manners and customs of this country, there is no better opportunity than to engage in the festivities of Tet.
So where should you go for Tet 2026? Is it crowded? What should you do, and what should you avoid? Local guide Trang Nguyen has all the answers in the article below.
Written by Trang Nguyen (Local Expert)
Updated on Nov 20, 2025
2 comments
Trang Nguyen has lived in Vietnam for nearly three decades and spent much of her life exploring Asia. She has joined numerous field trips, stayed with ethnic communities in the northern mountains, and gained deep insights into local cultures and landscapes. Her writing reflects an honest passion for authentic travel and meaningful connections. If you have any questions about her journeys, feel free to reach out and leave a comment!
Tet Nguyen Dan, or the Lunar New Year, is the biggest and most dedicated festival of the Vietnamese.
In 2026, the most significant holiday in Vietnam will last for nine days, from February 17 to February 26, 2026, providing a full week of consecutive days off.
Tet holiday follows the lunar calendar, so the date changes every year and usually falls between late January and mid-February.
A brief history of Tet in Vietnam
In Sino-Vietnamese, the term “Tet” finds its roots in '節' (weather), which means the changing of seasons from spring to summer, autumn, and winter. “Nguyen” signifies the beginning, and “Dan” refers to the early morning. Therefore, Tet Nguyen Dan literally means 'the first morning of the lunar year'.
In the past, Tet marked the start of a new rice-growing season, when farmers wished for good weather and a plentiful harvest. Today, Tet has become a moment to reset, let go of the old year’s troubles, and look forward to a calmer and luckier year ahead.
Vietnamese preparing for traditional Tet
As the Tet holiday of 2026 is around the corner, the preparations are underway weeks in advance of the holiday itself. People buy new clothes, style their hair, cook feasts, and acquire new accessories or furniture to decorate their houses.
They also purchase delicious biscuits and sweets to set the best table for incoming guests. Trade flourishes during these days, especially in the ornamental plants market, which becomes more bustling than ever.
Is Vietnamese Tet the same as Chinese New Year?
Although both Vietnam and China celebrate Lunar New Year, the timing, customs, food, and cultural traditions are quite different.
Vietnamese Tet focuses on agricultural roots, family rituals, and dishes like bánh chưng and bánh tét, while Chinese New Year features traditions tied to the Nian legend, lion dances, and symbolic foods like dumplings and nian gao.
Chinese New Year celebration
How do Vietnamese prepare for Tet?
Preparations for Tet Holiday 2026 begin on the 23rd day of the twelfth lunar month with theThe Kitchen Gods Ceremony.
The Kitchen God, Earth God, and Goddess of Shopping ascend to Heaven to report on the family’s past year to the Jade Emperor and seek blessings of luck, health, and prosperity for the year ahead.
They return on New Year’s Eve to welcome the family into the new year.
Preparations for Tet Holiday 2026 begin on the 23rd day of the twelfth lunar month
The feast and offerings
Families prepare offerings, including three live or paper carp - symbolizing strength and perseverance - as transport for the gods. The carp are released into ponds or rivers after the ceremony. Paper garments, hats, and boots, along with silver-shaped votive items, are also burned to honor them.
Traditional dishes are placed on the family altar to honor ancestors and deities, accompanied by prayers for a prosperous Tet Holiday.
After the ceremony, joss paper are burned, and the carp are set free, symbolizing renewal and good fortune.
Joss paper are burned
It’s one of the most meaningful parts of Tet, a moment that brings everyone in the family together, hoping for a peaceful and lucky new year.
Traditional dishes and votive objects are placed on the altar to celebrate the deities
Ornamental plants and decorations for Tet
What kinds of ornamental plants do the Vietnamese favor? The answer is kumquat trees and peach blossoms. Every house, every office will place at least one beautiful plant in a noticeable position, not only to adorn the view but also to subtly indicate that “Spring is coming.”
All streets, markets, restaurants, and shops are embellished with the vivid colors of red and yellow ornaments, or pink and orange from trees on the back of every motorbike when Tet arrives.
How do Vietnamese prepare for Tet?
Nevertheless, the Vietnamese never leave their trees plain for the Tet holiday. All housewives and children are eager to buy ornaments and decorations for the tree.
Those could be in the form of New Year’s dangling wishes, or stickers featuring illustrations of the animal that represents the year, along with mini flickering lights.
Each year is symbolized by an animal in a 12-year cycle, including Rat, Buffalo, Tiger, Cat, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig.
Vietnamese shopping for traditional Tet
In 2026, the Vietnamese New Year will be marked by the Year of the Horse, an astrological sign associated with strength, freedom, and energy.
In Eastern cultures, the Horse symbolizes vitality, perseverance, and an adventurous spirit, representing a time for bold new beginnings and a year full of dynamic movement and progress.
The Tet Holiday Celebration
The first morning of Tet holiday
Tet officially takes place as the fireworks sparkle above the sky, and adults perform their ritual offerings to their ancestors. On the first morning of the Lunar New Year, after wishing their elders well, children receive lì xì (red envelopes) with lucky money inside. It’s one of the most exciting moments of Tết for them.
Why Vietnamese give lucky money?
The red envelope itself carries the meaning of good luck, protection, and warm wishes for the year ahead. People often choose even amounts or money with “nice” serial numbers, as red symbolizes good fortune and is believed to keep bad spirits away.
Lucky money is typically given in even amounts, symbolizing the hope for ongoing prosperity
New clothes are worn, and people stock their kitchens with Chung cake, Tet cake, and other delicious food, then observe various other customs, all symbolizing the hope for the positive things that lie ahead with the upcoming spring.
Li Xi is given to younger and children to wish them a better success, health and luck in the new year
People avoid arguments or any negative behaviors, treat each other with kindness, and make visits to their relatives or neighbors, asking after their health with the best New Year’s greetings. You can be a part of this tradition by learning some wishing phrases with pronunciation for non-native speakers that we’ve prepared below.
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To make your experience even more lavish, join the Vietnamese to go to the pagodas and temples. Here, they pray for a bounteous harvest and set the stage for their business or achieve impressive goals for the next year.
Prayer on New Year's Eve
Once the fireworks end, people head to Buddhist pagodas and temples to pray for good fortune. Many buy symbolic items like sugar cane and salt.
Sugar cane represents family reunion, connecting the living and their ancestors, while salt symbolizes the sea, a source of unlimited wealth. By bringing these items home, Vietnamese families hope for a joyful and prosperous new year.
Once the fireworks end, people head to Buddhist pagodas and temples to pray for good fortune
The “First-foot” Custom
The first day of the new year is considered crucial, as it sets the tone for the months ahead. The first person to enter the house, or “first guest,” is often chosen carefully in advance.
Families select someone whose zodiac sign aligns with good fortune for the coming year- typically a kind, cheerful, and honest person. This guest, often arriving shortly after midnight, brings small gifts to wish happiness and prosperity to the household.
The first day of the new year is considered crucial, as it sets the tone for the months ahead
If you want to "first foot" (xông đất) a home for the Lunar New Year, you can either be invited by the host or kindly let them know if your zodiac sign and age are considered beneficial for the year.
Here is a simplified table of God of Wealth (zodiac signs believed to attract prosperity) and Benefactors (zodiac signs bringing support and luck) based on birth years:
These traditions reflect the Vietnamese people's deep-rooted belief in harmony, luck, and renewal as they welcome the Lunar New Year.
Besides the sacred customs of Tet, Vietnamese people also celebrate Tet and enjoy spring with lots of joyful and healthy festivities such as wrestling, swinging, boating, buffalo fighting, and many other folk games.
Tug of war is a folk game that is practiced at a number of traditional festivals and community events
Best places in Vietnam to experience Tet 2026
Hanoi
If you want to really feel Tet, I recommend starting at the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long. On the first day of Tet, the citadel hosts incense offerings and performances that truly capture the spirit of the holiday.
Then, head over to Hang Ma Street in the Old Quarter. The whole street is decked out in red lanterns, lucky charms, and vibrant decorations.
Hang Ma street
If you’re looking for something a bit more traditional, Duong Lam Ancient Village is perfect. Here, you can wrap your own bánh chưng and join in with the locals to see how Tet used to be celebrated centuries ago.
Co Lam Village charms tourists with traditional Tet
Ho Chi Minh City
My top pick is Nguyen Hue Flower Street. The street is packed with beautiful flower displays, street performances, and a festive vibe that stretches on for days. It's where the heart of Saigon’s Tet celebrations happens.
Another place you can’t miss is Chinatown (District 5). It’s packed with incense-filled temples, lanterns, and bustling markets.
And of course, no trip to HCMC would be complete without stopping by Ben Thanh Market. The market gets even more lively during Tet, with locals picking up sweets, dried fruits, and last-minute decorations for their homes.
The market gets even more lively during Tet
Da Nang
Da Nang is a bit more laid-back than the big cities but still has plenty to offer during Tet. The Han River fireworks are a must-see: the river and bridges light up with beautiful displays that set the festive mood.
If you're into more relaxed Tet celebrations, My Khe Beach hosts Tet events and markets where you can enjoy the holiday by the sea.
Hoi An
Hoi An is hands down one of my favorite places to be during Tet. The Ancient Town is lit up with lanterns, and it’s so buzzing, especially since many locals return to their hometowns for the holiday.
The atmosphere is magical and vibrant. I recommend walking around the old town, grabbing a cup of tea, and soaking in the festive spirit.
Hoi An is hands down one of my favorite places to be during Tet.
Sapa
If you want to experience Tet in a totally different setting, head to Sapa. It’s packed with local festivals that let you dive deep into the traditions of the highland tribes. The Roong Pooc Festival of the Giay people, Tet Nhay with the Dao people, and Xuong Đong Festival by the Tay people are cultural gems during Tet.
Sapa is packed with local festivals that let you dive deep into the traditions of the highland tribes
How to say Happy New Year in Vietnamese?
We got a little help for your good intentions! Check out our collection of friendly phrases commonly used by Vietnamese to wish others well as the Tet Holiday kicks off for a warm start:
Chúc Mừng Năm Mới: (pronounced: chook moong nahm moy)
Meaning: Happy New Year, Happy Tet
Vạn Sự Như Ý: (pronounced: vahn soo nyu ee)
Meaning: May all your wishes come true
An Khang Thịnh Vượng: (pronounced: an khang ting vuong)
Meaning: Security, good health, and prosperity
Sức Khỏe Dồi Dào: (pronounced: sook kwee doy dao)
Meaning: Abundant health
Tiền Vào Như Nước: (pronounced: tee-en vao nyu nook)
Meaning: May money flow in like water
Chúc Hay Ăn Chóng Lớn: (pronounced: chook high aan chong lon)
Traditional dishes include bánh chưng, bánh tét, pickled vegetables, spring rolls, braised pork and eggs, and various festive sweets and candied fruits.
Yes, if you’re visiting a family or spending Tet with locals, giving a small red envelope is a thoughtful gesture. You don’t need to give a lot of money. If the custom doesn’t feel comfortable for you, it’s completely okay. You can bring a small gift instead, such as a bottle of wine or a fruit basket for the host.
Folk games during Tet
>>> To better prepare your trip to Vietnam near Tet:
Tet is the peak travel season since every place receives a huge transportation load, so please plan your accommodations & commuting well in advance. In big cities, buses are still running so you can catch them or get Grab to travel around.
Many businesses close during Tet, including shops and restaurants, and they may close for numerous days. Stock up on essentials in advance and plan other activities accordingly.
The travel demand during Tet is often higher than normal days
Try Tet Specialties:
Don’t sleep on Vietnamese traditional Tet dishes, including favorites like Bánh Chưng (square sticky rice cake), Bánh Tét, pickled vegetables, deep-fried spring rolls, caramelized pork and eggs, and a delightful array of festive treats such as Mứt (candied fruit), biscuits, and traditional sweets.
Explore your nearest local markets to enjoy the authentic taste of these delights that make Tet a truly special time in Vietnam.
Tet Traditional Food
Dress Appropriately:
Remember to avoid dressing in short or revealing clothes when visiting temples or engaging in other cultural events.
Although Tet’s in the spring, please be prepared for different weather conditions like the cold and heavy drizzle.
Tourists in Hoi An
Be Patient with Crowds:
Since everyone is going out these days, there will be larger crowds at popular tourist spots and transportation hubs during Tet.
Be patient and don’t get disappointed because of extra time for travel.
Follow Fireworks Safety Guidelines:
Tet is often associated with loud firecrackers and music.
If you plan to enjoy fireworks, please enjoy the showcase in designated areas and follow safety guidelines to ensure joyful and safe festive days.
If you plan to purchase fireworks, please respect local laws regarding their usage.
Tourists have the chance to partake in traditional activities
Conclusion
Tet is not just a holiday; it's an opportunity to share in the joy, warmth, optimism and love of Vietnamese culture. So, travelers, plan ahead with us, make the most of the festive spirit and this extraordinary journey during this 2026 Tet holiday.
May your Tet be filled with unforgettable moments, lots of red envelopes, cultural discoveries, and the joy of new beginnings of 2026. Our guide is always here to ensure you make the most of this joyous celebration in Vietnam.
Chúc mừng năm mới! (Happy New Year!)
Tourists take part in the Spring Festival as calligraphers
I was packing up for a 2-week tour in March 2024 around Vietnam, is it possible? Please help me with your suggestions
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K
Kampá Tour26 Feb 2024
Absolutely! A two-week tour around Vietnam in March 2024 sounds like an incredible adventure! So why not take a look at our comprehensive itinerary that you might find interesting: Vietnam 2-Week Itinerary? Feel free to explore it, and if you have any further questions or need personalized recommendations, please don't hesitate to reach out!
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Absolutely! A two-week tour around Vietnam in March 2024 sounds like an incredible adventure! So why not take a look at our comprehensive itinerary that you might find interesting: Vietnam 2-Week Itinerary? Feel free to explore it, and if you have any further questions or need personalized recommendations, please don't hesitate to reach out!