Discover the top 5 things to do in Vietnam during Tet Holiday , from festive street scenes and temple visits to local family feasts and vibrant flower markets. Immerse yourself in the country’s most joyful time of the year.
Tet, or Vietnamese Lunar New Year, is not just a holiday , it’s the soul of Vietnam. Streets bloom with peach blossoms, families reunite, and the entire country seems to sparkle with joy and tradition. If you’re lucky enough to be in Vietnam during Tet, here are the top five things you absolutely shouldn’t miss.
1. Explore the Festive Streets and Flower Markets
As Tet approaches, cities across Vietnam transform into colorful wonderlands. In Hanoi, the Old Quarter and Quang Ba Flower Market burst with the scent of kumquat trees and pink peach blossoms, while in Ho Chi Minh City, Nguyen Hue Flower Street becomes a living artwork of petals and lights. Wandering through these markets gives you a glimpse of how locals prepare for the New Year, with every purchase carrying the hope of prosperity and luck.
Explore the Festive Streets and Flower Markets
Try visiting early in the morning when vendors arrange fresh blooms under golden sunlight , it’s the perfect moment for both photos and authentic local energy.
2. Visit Temples and Pagodas for a Spiritual Start
Visiting temples during Tet is a deeply rooted tradition in Vietnamese culture. Locals pray for good fortune, health, and success, lighting incense sticks that fill the air with an ethereal fragrance. In Hanoi, Tran Quoc Pagoda and the Temple of Literature are popular choices, while in Hue and Da Nang, visitors often head to Thien Mu Pagoda and Linh Ung Pagoda for spiritual blessings.
Join the locals by offering a small donation, writing your wishes, or simply observing the calm flow of prayers. It’s a meaningful way to connect with Vietnamese spirituality and start the year with gratitude.
3. Experience a Traditional Vietnamese Tet Feast
Experience a Traditional Vietnamese Tet Feast
Food is at the heart of every Vietnamese celebration, and Tet is no exception. Families gather around tables filled with symbolic dishes like Bánh Chưng (square sticky rice cake), Gio Lua (Vietnamese sausage), Xôi Gấc (red sticky rice), and candied fruits. Each dish carries meaning , from fertility and wealth to happiness and peace.
Some restaurants and homestays offer Tet-themed meals where travelers can join in cooking or dining with locals. It’s a rare chance to savor authentic homemade flavors and learn the stories behind each bite.
4. Join Local Tet Customs and Family Visits
Join Local Tet Customs and Family Visits
During Tet, visiting friends and relatives is a cherished tradition called “Chúc Tết” , exchanging wishes and giving Li Xi (lucky red envelopes) to children and elders. While most families celebrate privately, some are open to sharing the joy with foreign guests.
If you’re invited to a local’s home, bring a small gift like fruit, tea, or wine to show respect. Dress modestly and greet the elders first. You’ll be amazed by the warmth of Vietnamese hospitality during this special season , it’s an experience of connection beyond sightseeing.
5. Witness the Midnight Fireworks and Street Festivities
When the clock strikes midnight on Lunar New Year’s Eve, the entire country lights up. Major cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang host spectacular fireworks shows that paint the sky in colors of joy. Locals gather in parks, by the lakes, or near rivers to count down together, sharing laughter, cheers, and good wishes.
The atmosphere is electric yet heartfelt. From street performances to lion dances, you’ll feel the unity and excitement that Tet brings. Just be sure to arrive early for a good viewing spot , the crowds can be huge, but the experience is unforgettable.
Want to experience the real warmth of Vietnamese Tet through local eyes? Book a Local Buddy on Tubudd and join in authentic celebrations, taste homemade food, and discover the hidden gems that make Tet truly magical.
