Tet Holiday, also known as Vietnamese New Year, is the most important public holiday of the year in Vietnam. In Sino-Vietnamese, Tet Nguyen Dan means the feast of the very first morning of the lunar calendar. Traveling around Vietnam during Tet, you might expect many differences compared to the normal days. Read our articles to see what is interesting about this traditional celebration and what should be noticed.
In 2024, Vietnam’s Tet holiday will be celebrated from February 10 (Jan 1st in Lunar Calendar) to February 14th (Jan 5th in Lunar Calendar). However, all the activities aimed at Tet usually happen after the Kitchen God festival, which falls on February 2nd (Dec 23rd in Lunar Calendar).
Tet celebration lasts for half a month, and you will see local life change from bustling, and peaceful to a cheering atmosphere. We can split the Tet holiday into 2 phases: before New Year’s Eve and after New Year’s Eve.
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Things to know about visiting Vietnam on Tet holiday (Vietnamese Lunar New Year)
1. Weather during Tet holiday in Vietnam
The weather during the Tet holiday in Vietnam can vary depending on the specific location within the country. Typical weather in each region of Vietnam will be different across the country.
Northern Vietnam (Hanoi and the surrounding areas):
During Tet in the north, the weather is often cool and sometimes chilly. This period is in the midst of the dry and cool season, changing from Winter to Spring. Daytime temperatures may range from 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F). It can get colder in the evenings, dropping to 15°C or lower. The skies are generally clear and sunny, making it a pleasant time for outdoor sightseeing and mountainous adventure.
Central Vietnam (Hue, Danang, Hoi An and surrounding areas):
Central Vietnam experiences a more temperate and relatively dry climate during Tet.
Daytime temperatures in cities like Danang and Hue can be around 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), making it a comfortable time to visit temples and pagodas. Travelers feel free to bask in the sunlight. The weather is less humid and rainy compared to the previous months of the year.
Southern Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta and surrounding areas):
Southern Vietnam, including Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta, experiences warm and dry weather during Tet. Daytime temperatures can range from 28°C to 32°C (82°F to 89°F), providing a tropical and sunny atmosphere. This is a popular time for outdoor gatherings, festivals, and enjoying the vibrant culture of the region.
Thanks to the diversity in climate, there is also diversity in culture and customs. While in the North, people dress in warm clothes with layers, in the South, people mostly wear their shorts and skirts. While the yellow apricot blossom is more popular in the central and south of Vietnam, the peach flowers and kumquat trees are more displayed in the north. If you travel to Vietnam during Tet holiday, why not start from one end of the country and move toward the other end to experience local culture as much as possible?
>> A Travel Guide to Visit Vietnam in January
>>A Travel Guide to Vietnam in February
2. Traffic here and there
You will be amazed by seeing two contrasting pictures of transportation in Vietnam before and after New Year's Eve.
Transportation in Vietnam one week before New Year can be quite challenging due to the massive movement of people as they travel to their hometowns to celebrate the Lunar New Year with their families. There is a significant increase in travel demand before the main days of the Tet holiday, with many Vietnamese people returning to their hometowns. This means that almost all modes of transportation are in high demand.
If you plan to fly during Tet, book your flights well in advance to secure your seats. Major airports like Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City and Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi can be especially busy during this period. In addition to planes, trains are a popular mode of transportation during Tet.
Transportation fares can rise during the Tet holiday due to high demand. Even though the fares are higher, tickets for trains, buses, and flights often still sell out quickly.
Before New Year’s Eve, in major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, traffic congestion can be more frequent as people move around for year-end parties or back to their hometowns. Just be calm when the roads become clogged and travel times between sightseeings might be longer than usual.
On the main days of Tet, you will see the scene change from hustle and bustle cities to tranquil ones. There are none of the usual crowded and noisy scenes. The urban city is different from itself on normal days. On the first day of the Vietnamese New Year, the area is quiet with fresh air.
Despite that, some transport providers may close or operate on a limited schedule. This can impact your travel options, so it's better to confirm your schedules in advance.
3. Tourist attractions during Tet
Tet is not only the most significant traditional festival in Vietnam, but it's also a time when many businesses and attractions close temporarily as people have a short break.
The weeks leading up to Tet are marked by vibrant and elaborate decorations in cities and towns across Vietnam. Streets are adorned with flowers, lanterns, and colourful displays. You can explore the city streets to appreciate the festive atmosphere.
Flower markets spring up in many cities during the lead-up to Tet. Flower gardens also wear a vivid colour. Visiting these markets and gardens can be a colourful and lively experience. These are the most famous blooming spots for you: Tao Dan Flower (HCMC), Hang Luoc Flower Market (Hanoi), Nhat Tan Flower Village (Hanoi), Sa Dec Flower Village (Dong Thap).
At some Museums or Temple of Literature, you may see the calligraphers creating words and phrases that bring good luck, prosperity, health, and happiness for the upcoming year on red paper or banners. Red symbolises luck and happiness in Vietnamese culture. Don't hesitate to get one to connect to the spirit of the Lunar New Year.
In Vietnamese customs, many people visit temples and pagodas during Tet to pray for a prosperous and fortunate year. You may consider visiting some of the well-known temples and pagodas, such as the Tran Quoc Pagoda in Hanoi, during this time. However, watch out for your belongings from the thief.
While some tourist sites may close during the actual Tet holiday, historical sites and museums remain open leading up to and after Tet. Plan your visits accordingly to make the most of your trip. You should check on each attraction's website, and official fan page Facebook for exact open hours during Tet.
>> See more about Things to do in Vietnam
4. Local restaurants
On this occasion, many businesses, including restaurants, may have adjusted operating hours or even closed temporarily to allow their staff to celebrate the holiday with their families. The specific availability of restaurants during Tet can vary depending on the location, type of restaurant, and local customs.
In larger cities like Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), Hanoi, and Danang, you are more likely to find some restaurants that remain open during Tet. Because these cities have a more significant number of customers, some restaurants catering to tourists may stay open.
Smaller, family-run restaurants and street food vendors may close, especially during the first few days of the holiday. Therefore, a street food tour should be taken before or after Tet.
Many hotels and international chain restaurants will remain open. If you book with hotels in advance, also check their restaurant. Having a meal at a hotel's restaurant is a good option so that you do not waste time finding a restaurant.
If you want to experience local Tet cuisine and traditions, you may consider seeking out special Tet markets or food stalls that offer traditional holiday dishes like banh chung and other seasonal treats.
Most restaurants that close for Tet typically do so for only a few days to a week. After the first 3-4 days of Tet, some businesses start to reopen gradually.
>> Articles about Vietnamese food and restaurants
5. Accommodations: hotel or homestay
In the past Vietnamese people loved to spend time gathering at home. However, when modern life is too busy for a vacation, some locals make use of the time off from work to travel. Hotels and resorts in popular destinations like Hoi An, Da Nang, Phu Quoc, Nha Trang will expect more domestic travellers.
There is a significant demand for accommodations in tourist areas when many people travel to be with their families. As a result, hotels, guesthouses, and other lodging options may experience limited availability, and prices may be higher.
Despite that, some businesses, including accommodations, may close or operate with reduced services during the Tet holiday. This is because many people, including staff, take time off to celebrate with their families.
Accommodations, especially in tourist areas, may have festive decorations and activities during Tet. This can add to the overall experience of celebrating the Lunar New Year in Vietnam.
Instead of hotels, you may consider staying in local guesthouses or homestays during Tet, which can provide a more memorable cultural experience. You will have the opportunity to participate in traditional Tet celebrations with the host family and learn more about the holiday from a local perspective. This can provide you with an authentic experience into Vietnamese traditions and customs.
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6. Let's go shopping
Shopping during Tet is a unique experience. The period leading up to Tet is marked by bustling markets, special sales, and a festive atmosphere as people prepare to celebrate the most significant holiday in Vietnam.
In the weeks leading up to Tet, markets and shopping areas come alive with increased activity. People are busy buying goods for the holiday, including food, decorations, and gifts.
Families stock up on essential ingredients for preparing traditional dishes like "banh chung" (square glutinous rice cake), pickled vegetables, and various treats to offer ancestors as well as their dear guests. Besides, people purchase apricot blossoms, peach blossoms, kumquat trees, and various flowers to decorate their homes. Each type of flower carries symbolic meaning, bringing luck and prosperity for the coming year. Besides, it's customary to buy new clothes to wear during Tet, symbolising a fresh start for the new year.
The days leading up to Tet can be particularly busy in markets and shopping malls. Locals and visitors alike join the hustle and bustle, creating a joyful atmosphere. In the lead-up to Tet, retailers often hold special promotions, encouraging people to make purchases for the holiday. This includes discounts on clothing, shoes, accessories, household items and food. Though modern stores and supermarkets have become increasingly popular, the traditional markets continue to play a significant role in Tet shopping, offering a wide range of goods and a more traditional convenient shopping experience.
Many brands release special Tet-themed products, including packaging and limited-edition items, to celebrate the holiday. Shopping during Tet is not just about buying necessities; it's a cultural and social experience. Travelers totally delve into the shopping paradise in Vietnam at this time, but be careful to not be overcharged.
Discover some famous markets for shopping:
>> Da Nang: top 10 markets to go shopping
>> North Vietnam’s ethnic markets
7. Banking & money exchange
During the Tet (Vietnamese Lunar New Year), banks usually close for several days, and the exact closure dates can vary from year to year as Tet is based on the lunar calendar. Banks typically close a few days before Tet and remain closed for a few days after the holiday, with services resuming once the holiday period concludes. In 2024, banks such as Vietcombank, BIDV, VietinBank, TPBank, Agribank, etc. will close from 08/02/2024 until 14/02/2024.
If you plan to visit a bank or require banking services in Vietnam during Tet, you must check the specific holiday schedule and operating hours in advance.
Internet Banking and ATM services are still available during Tet. However, it's advisable to ensure you have sufficient cash on hand for your needs, as ATMs may become less reliable due to high demand and possible cash shortages during this period.
You should exchange a short amount of money before boarding the plane, or do it at the airport. But keep in mind that banks and money exchangers at the airport provide a less beneficial exchange rate than usual. The more favorable exchange rate could be found in jewelry shops in Hanoi Old Quarter or near Ho Chi Minh City's Ben Thanh market.
8. How to say Happy New Year in Vietnamese?
Vietnamese people believe that the blessings of the new year can bring them fortunes for the entire year. If good things come to the family on New Year’s Day, the entire following year will be filled with what they wished for.
To say "Happy New Year" in Vietnamese, you can use the phrase "Chúc Mừng Năm Mới." This phrase is commonly used to convey New Year's greetings in Vietnam. Many people find Vietnamese tones challenging to learn. However, you can smile big and pronounce it like “chook moon numb moy”.
Besides, people commonly wish each other luck, health and prosperity for example:
An khang thịnh vượng: peace, good health & prosperity
Vạn sự như ý: all your wishes come true
Sống lâu trăm tuổi: live up to 100 years
Sức khỏe dồi dào: good health & strength
Tiền vô như nước: money comes in like water
Tet is a special time in Vietnam, and experiencing it firsthand can be a memorable and culturally rich travel experience. By planning ahead and understanding the unique aspects of Tet, you can make the most of your time and enjoy the festive activities surrounding the Vietnamese Lunar New Year.
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02 Comments
United Kingdom
We came to know about the holiday after we booked our flight tickets, so we are kind of worried about how the cities will be on Feb 10th and 11th. Will the Mekong Delta tour be available on Feb 11th? TIA
Vietnam
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