Tet Nguyen Dan: Visiting Vietnam During Lunar New Year

Tet is Vietnam’s Lunar New Year, celebrated for up to a week. Preparations begin days in advance, with families cleaning homes, decorating with flowers, and preparing special foods. Key customs include ancestor worship, family reunions, giving lucky money (li xi) to children, and eating banh chung (a savory sticky rice cake). Streets are decorated with peach blossoms in the north and yellow apricot flowers in the south, creating a festive atmosphere.

Travelers can enjoy public festivities such as fireworks in cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, flower markets, and street decorations. Homestays or local tours may offer opportunities to observe family rituals and taste traditional Tet foods. However, most shops, restaurants, and attractions close for several days, especially on Tet Eve and the first two days. Transportation is crowded as locals return home, and prices for hotels and flights may rise.

Book flights, trains, and accommodation well in advance. Check local event schedules and confirm opening hours for tourist sites, as many close or operate on reduced hours. Expect limited food options outside major cities. Be respectful of family gatherings and avoid intrusive photography. If joining a homestay or local celebration, ask about customs and etiquette beforehand.

Public Tet events and accessibility for foreigners can vary by region. Major cities tend to have more public festivities, while rural areas focus on family gatherings. It is uncertain how Tet celebrations may adapt as tourism returns post-pandemic. Always check local information for updated event schedules and closures.