Tet in Vietnam 2026
Dates, closures, where to celebrate, and smart planning
Tet 2026 Key Dates
- Feb 14–16: Pre‑Tet rush (markets, travel peaks)
- Feb 17: Tet (New Year’s Day) — many shops closed, family gatherings
- Feb 18–20: Public holidays — reduced services, festive events
- Feb 21+: Gradual reopening — tourist services normalize
Tet is Vietnam’s biggest annual celebration: families return home, homes are cleaned and decorated with peach blossoms and kumquat trees, and gifts are exchanged with wishes for prosperity. For visitors, it’s a precious chance to see Vietnam at its most heartfelt—quiet streets in the morning, flower markets brimming with color, then cheerful gatherings and night fireworks in major cities.
What’s Open, What’s Closed
Closures You Can Expect
- Government offices and many banks close through the official holiday window.
- Small shops and some restaurants close on Tet Day and possibly the next day.
- Long‑distance trains and buses run but book out early; schedules can adjust.
What Stays Open
- Hotels, most tourist‑area restaurants, and convenience stores in big cities.
- Landmarks with special Tet hours; pagodas welcome worshippers throughout.
- Ride‑hailing typically operates but may surge‑price during peak times.
Plan meals around limited hours on Tet Day and carry some snacks and water. If you’re traveling across regions, lock transport early and keep buffer time around the holiday’s first two days.
Where to Celebrate Tet
Hanoi
The Old Quarter winds down on the day, but just before Tet you’ll find Flower Market bursts along Hang Luoc and around Hoan Kiem. On the night itself, head for lakeside strolls and temple bells at Ngoc Son. Water puppet shows often schedule festive performances.
- Flower markets (pre‑Tet) for photos and seasonal treats.
- Hoan Kiem area for midnight atmosphere and possible fireworks.
- Temple visits: light incense respectfully and dress modestly.
Ho Chi Minh City
District 1’s Nguyen Hue Flower Street is Tet’s epicenter in the south—spectacular floral gates, zodiac displays, and music. Around midnight, fireworks may light the skyline, with Saigon River banks drawing large crowds. The energy is vibrant even as many locals head home.
- Nguyen Hue Flower Street: vivid photo ops and evening shows.
- Landmark riverside viewpoints for fireworks when scheduled.
- Cholon (District 5) for heritage pagodas and tea houses.
Hoi An
Tet blends naturally with Hoi An’s lantern nights—temples fill with worshippers and the Ancient Town glows. Expect many small businesses to close on the first day, then reopen quickly in tourist quarters.
- Ancient Town lantern strolls with low‑key, family‑first vibes.
- Boat rides if operating—check same day for availability.
- Quiet alleys for contemplative photos in the morning.
Hue & Da Nang
Former imperial Hue offers solemn pagoda visits and incense‑scented rituals. Nearby Da Nang sets up lively streetside decorations and hosts events along the Han River, with bridges lit in holiday colors.
- Thien Mu Pagoda (Hue) for dawn rituals and river mist.
- Han River promenade (Da Nang) for lights and performances.
Etiquette and Cultural Basics
- Dress modestly at pagodas and remove hats; speak softly near altars.
- Use both hands when giving or receiving items; avoid pointing feet at shrines.
- Red and gold are auspicious; black and white are avoided for gifting.
- A small red envelope (li xi) with a note or small bill symbolizes good luck.
- Ask before photographing families making offerings, especially indoors.
A few phrases help: “Chúc Mừng Năm Mới” (Happy New Year) and “Cảm ơn” (thank you). Even simple attempts are warmly received.
Food Traditions to Try
- Banh Chung/Banh Tet: sticky rice cakes filled with pork and mung beans.
- Pickled onions, boiled chicken, and caramelized pork—holiday table staples.
- Mut Tet: candied fruits served to guests with tea for sweet wishes.
- Kumquat tea and strong coffee—comforting pairings for cool mornings.
Restaurants in tourist areas craft Tet menus that nod to tradition; street markets sell seasonal snacks in the days leading up to the holiday. Carry cash and small notes for quick purchases.
Booking Strategy & Transport
- Book domestic flights and trains 6–8 weeks in advance for Tet week.
- Build 1–2 buffer days before and after Tet for schedule changes.
- Choose central hotels within walking distance of key sights.
- Confirm airport transfers; ride‑hailing can surge at peak times.
If moving between cities right before Tet, aim to travel by morning flights. Keep copies of reservations offline and stay flexible—Tet is about flow more than speed.
Safety, Crowds, and Practical Tips
- Keep valuables zipped and carry only what you need in crowded areas.
- Use hotel safes for passports; carry photocopies when out at night.
- Stay hydrated and dress in layers for north vs. south temperature swings.
- Respect cordoned‑off areas during fireworks and official events.
Overall, Tet nights feel festive and safe. Follow local flows, avoid pushing, and locate your hotel on a map before heading into crowds to ease your return.
Two Sample Tet Itineraries
City Highlights (Hanoi‑Centric)
- Day 1–2: Old Quarter markets, flower streets, temple visits.
- Day 3 (Tet Day): early pagoda, lake stroll, evening fireworks.
- Day 4–5: Ninh Binh or Halong Bay day trip; warming cuisine.
Southern Vibes (Ho Chi Minh City)
- Day 1–2: Nguyen Hue Flower Street, Chinatown pagodas, coffee crawl.
- Day 3 (Tet Day): brunch in District 1, riverside fireworks views.
- Day 4–5: Mekong Delta day trip; sunset along the canals.
If you have a full week, consider a north–south combo with a short flight mid‑trip. Book trains early if you prefer the scenic route.
Packing List for Tet
- Layers: light jacket in the north; breathable outfits in the south.
- Comfortable shoes for long walks and standing during events.
- Small red envelopes, modest scarf for pagodas, and a reusable bottle.
- Power bank, offline maps, and a backup travel card or cash.
Weather varies sharply by region. Hanoi mornings can be brisk; Ho Chi Minh City stays warm. Pack for the broadest range you’ll encounter.
Do’s & Don’ts at a Glance
Do
- Greet locals with “Chúc Mừng Năm Mới.”
- Offer small, thoughtful gifts if invited into a home.
- Be patient with altered hours and transport changes.
Don’t
- Wear all black for festive visits or temple photos.
- Haggle aggressively during the first sales of the year.
- Block shrine pathways with tripods or group photos.
Tet centers around family and good omens. Your kindness and flexibility become part of the day’s luck—yours and theirs.
Traveling during Tet?
We’ll optimize your route around closures and secure reliable transport.