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Christmas is a big deal all around the world, and Vietnam is no different. In this article, we'll explore how people celebrate Christmas in Vietnam and discover some of the popular places where people gather during this festive season.
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1. Is there Christmas in Vietnam?
Yes. Christmas is celebrated in Vietnam, although it is not a public holiday like in many Western countries. In Vietnam, Christmas is more of a cultural and religious celebration, particularly for Christians throughout the country.
In larger cities, especially Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, churches hold special Christmas Eve services. Besides, there are also public celebrations with singing, dancing, and other festivities.
2. How do Vietnamese celebrate Christmas?
Even though Christmas is not an official holiday in Vietnam, people still engage in various activities to celebrate the occasion.
Decorate houses and stores with Christmas items
In Vietnam, people decorate their homes with colorful items like lights, tinsel, and baubles to make their spaces feel festive. Many families, especially those with kids, put up Christmas trees, often artificial ones, and they decorate these trees with ornaments. It's a tradition for families to come together and decorate the tree.
In addition, shops and stores enter into the holiday spirit by decorating their storefronts with Christmas-themed displays to attract customers. You'll often see Santa Claus figures, reindeer, and Christmas lights in these displays.
Exchange gifts
Vietnamese people exchange gifts with a focus on thoughtfulness and care. It's a way to show appreciation to friends and family members. Common gifts include clothing, toys, or any items that the recipients may like.
Children often love receiving gifts from Santa Claus, or "Ông già Noel" in Vietnamese. Parents or family members play the role of Santa, delivering gifts to excited kids.
Moreover, many companies in Vietnam also send gifts to their employees and clients during the Christmas season as a token of appreciation.
Go to church on Christmas night
On Christmas night, the church becomes a focal point for the local community to celebrate the birth of Jesus. They come to pray, listen to hymns & sermons, and enjoy the festive Christmas atmosphere.
The churches are beautifully decorated with lights and ornaments, attracting both Christians and non-Christians. Around the churches, you might find carol singers and charity events, where people share love and goodwill during the holiday season.
Attend public events and celebrations
In big cities like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, there are amazing fireworks on Christmas Eve which can be seen from surrounding areas. Moreover, these events also have live music performances and other fun stuff, attracting thousands of people to attend.
These days, streets are glowing with colorful decorations and twinkling string lights. Along the streets, you can find vendors set up stalls selling a tempting array of holiday foods and drinks.
3. Best places to enjoy Christmas in Vietnam
When visiting these places in Vietnam at Christmas, you get to see a mix of religious traditions, local customs, and the special atmosphere of each spot.
St. Joseph's Cathedral - Hanoi City
St. Joseph's Cathedral, located in the heart of Hanoi's Old Quarter, is a magnificent Neo-Gothic church that becomes a community gathering place for Christmas celebrations. The cathedral is beautifully illuminated with lights and decorations during the holiday season. Surrounding streets are adorned with Christmas-themed displays, which creates a magical atmosphere for visitors and locals alike.
Stone Church - Sapa District
Sapa, a mountain town in northern Vietnam, is a unique place to celebrate Christmas. The Stone Church is set amidst the picturesque landscapes of Sapa. The surrounding mountains and lush greenery provide a stunning backdrop for your Christmas celebrations.
Pink Church (Da Nang Cathedral) - Da Nang City
The Pink Church, officially known as Da Nang Cathedral, is a beautiful pink-painted church in Da Nang. During Christmas, this church is adorned with lights and decorations that give it a romantic and festive atmosphere.
Chicken Church - Dalat City
The Chicken Church, formally known as the Domaine de Marie Church, is a symbol of Dalat. Its unique architecture and hilltop location offer a picturesque setting for Christmas celebrations. The church is usually filled with twinkling lights and ornaments, and it's a popular spot for both locals and tourists during the holiday season.
Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral - Ho Chi Minh City
The Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral is an iconic landmark in Ho Chi Minh City. During Christmas, this grand cathedral is a must-visit. Its neo-Romanesque architecture and stunning decorations make it a perfect place to attend Midnight Mass.
The streets are lively with crowds, vendors selling holiday treats, and a festive spirit in the air. You can enjoy the Christmas vibe and take great photos here.
Tan Dinh Church - Ho Chi Minh City
Located in Ho Chi Minh City, Tan Dinh Church is another beautiful religious site to enjoy Christmas with friends and family. You'll see a special scene with statues of Baby Jesus, the Virgin Mary, three kings, angels, and donkeys, all representing the Christmas story.
On December 24th, the church hall turns into a heartwarming stage for a special prayer event and Christmas Eve Mass. The church also hosts different activities, such as concerts and singing hymns. The talented choir will fill the air with beautiful Christmas music.
4. Fun facts about Christmas in Vietnam
Christmas in Vietnam is a delightful blend of Western and Vietnamese traditions. Here are some fun facts about this unique celebration:
Not an official holiday, but celebrated with passion: Christmas isn't a public holiday, but it's still a big deal, especially in major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.
French touch: Because of Vietnam's historical ties with France, you'll find French influences like a special Christmas Eve meal called 'reveillon' and a chocolate cake shaped like a log ('bûche de Noël').
Vietnamese Santa: In Vietnam, Santa Claus ditches the sleigh for a motorbike to deliver presents, and parents often hire him for this task.
5. FAQs
Photophrapher: Tran Duy Tai
#1. When is Christmas in Vietnam in 2024?
Christmas is celebrated on December 25th every year, including in Vietnam. Therefore, Christmas in Vietnam will be on Monday, December 25th, 2024.
#2. Are there any songs about Christmas in Vietnam?
Best Vietnamese Christmas songs include Đêm Noel, Bài Thánh Ca Buồn, Đêm Thánh Vô Cùng, Hai mùa Noel, Giáng Sinh ngọt ngào, and Tiếng chuông ngân.
#3. How can I say “Merry Christmas” in Vietnamese?
The most common way to say "Merry Christmas" in Vietnamese is "Chúc Mừng Giáng Sinh" or "Giáng Sinh An Lành" which means "Merry Christmas and Happy New Year".
#4. How’s the weather in Vietnam on Christmas?
Vietnam is a long and narrow country, so the weather can vary depending on the region. In the north, such as Hanoi, the weather is usually cool and dry in December, with temperatures ranging from 15-20°C (59-68°F).
In the south, such as Ho Chi Minh City, the weather is usually warm and humid, with temperatures ranging from 25-30°C (77-86°F).
The central region can be affected by typhoons and heavy rain during this time of year.
Spend Christmas 2024 in Vietnam: Why not?
If you're a foreign tourist seeking a unique holiday experience, consider Vietnam during Christmas. Christmas in Vietnam is a unique and magical blend of colorful decorations, religious gatherings, cultural traditions, and lively street celebrations. Come, create lasting memories, and enjoy a different kind of Christmas magic.
So, pack your bags and enjoy Vietnam's exciting holiday celebrations on your next trip!
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