Tet , the Vietnamese Lunar New Year , isn’t just a celebration, it’s the heartbeat of Vietnam’s cultural identity. Streets fill with blossoms and laughter, families gather over steaming dishes, and the air hums with a sense of renewal. If you’re visiting Vietnam during this special time, you’re in for something unforgettable. To help you make the most of it, here are seven meaningful things to do during Tet in Vietnam that blend tradition, joy, and authentic connection.

1. Visit Local Temples to Welcome the New Year

One of the most sacred activities during Tet is visiting temples and pagodas. Locals come to pray for good fortune, health, and happiness in the coming year. As a traveler, joining these visits offers a beautiful glimpse into Vietnamese spirituality. In Hanoi, the Temple of Literature and Tran Quoc Pagoda are particularly popular; in Ho Chi Minh City, you’ll find the Jade Emperor Pagoda and Vinh Nghiem Pagoda alive with incense and worshippers.  

When visiting, remember to dress modestly, move slowly, and respect the calm atmosphere. Many locals light incense, offer fruits or flowers, and sometimes release birds or fish as acts of merit.

2. Explore Tet Flower Markets

Before Tet, cities and towns across Vietnam bloom with flower markets. These are not just places to shop, but to celebrate life and luck. Peach blossoms (in the North) and apricot flowers (in the South) symbolize prosperity, while kumquat trees represent fertility and happiness.  

Even if you’re not buying, walking through the colorful markets , like Hanoi’s Quang Ba Market or Ho Chi Minh City’s Nguyen Hue Flower Street , is an experience full of fragrance, laughter, and energy.

3. Join a Local Family Celebration

If you’re lucky enough to be invited to a Vietnamese home during Tet, accept without hesitation. This is the heart of the holiday , a time for family reunions, storytelling, and feasting. Traditional dishes such as banh chung (square sticky rice cake), gio lua (Vietnamese sausage), and candied fruits are shared with warmth and pride.  

You’ll witness ancestral rituals, lucky money giving, and the pure joy of togetherness. Just remember to bring a small gift, like tea or sweets, and avoid wearing black or white as these are seen as unlucky colors.

4. Watch Fireworks and Street Celebrations

On New Year’s Eve, Vietnam lights up in spectacular fashion. Major cities host fireworks shows that illuminate the night sky and the spirits of everyone watching. In Hanoi, the best spots include Hoan Kiem Lake and Thong Nhat Park; in Ho Chi Minh City, head to Landmark 81 or the Saigon River for the best views.  

The atmosphere is electric , music, cheers, and the soft crackle of sparklers everywhere. For a true local experience, buy small paper lanterns and release them over rivers or lakes for luck.

5. Try Traditional Tet Foods

No Tet experience is complete without tasting its signature dishes. Each region adds its own flavor to the celebration. In the North, banh chung reigns supreme; in the Central region, you’ll find banh tet , its cylindrical cousin; and in the South, a feast of pickled vegetables, stewed pork, and dried shrimp takes center stage.  

Visit local restaurants or homestays that offer Tet menus, or join a cooking class to learn how to wrap and boil your own banh chung. Sharing food during Tet isn’t just eating , it’s participating in centuries of culture.

6. Give (or Receive) Lucky Money

“Li xi” , the red envelopes filled with money , is one of the most joyful traditions of Tet. The amount doesn’t matter; it’s the red color and the act of giving that bring good luck. As a visitor, you may be offered one by your host, or you can prepare a few envelopes to give to children or elders you meet. Always offer with both hands and a smile , it’s a universal gesture of goodwill.

7. Wander Through Empty Streets

During the first days of Tet, many big cities become surprisingly quiet. Shops close, traffic fades, and streets feel almost timeless. This is a rare moment to explore Vietnam in peace , from Hanoi’s Old Quarter to Hue’s ancient citadel. The stillness contrasts beautifully with the usual bustle and gives you a deeper appreciation of the country’s rhythm.

Visiting Vietnam during Tet means more than sightseeing , it’s a chance to witness renewal, kindness, and connection. To make your experience smoother and more immersive, you can book a Local Buddy through Tubudd. Your buddy can guide you through customs, help translate interactions, and introduce you to local celebrations you’d never find on your own.