Tet Street Markets in Vietnam: Experiencing the Festive Heart of Lunar New Year
Vietnam’s Tet street markets are a core part of the Lunar New Year experience, transforming city neighborhoods and towns with flowers, food, and festive energy. This guide focuses on what international visitors can expect at these markets, how to visit respectfully, and practical tips for navigating the busiest week in Vietnam.
Related reading
Keep exploring Vietnam
- 1Tet Street Festivities: Experiencing Public Celebrations in Vietnam’s Cities
Link from the section describing Tet market atmosphere and public celebrations.
- 2Tet Nguyen Dan: Visiting Vietnam During Lunar New Year
Link from the section about Tet timing and broader Lunar New Year context.
- 3Vietnam’s Night Markets: A Practical Guide for International Visitors (2026)
Link from the section on navigating crowded markets and practical tips.
At a glance
- Best time
- 3–5 days before Tet (Jan 24–28, 2025)
- How long
- 1–2 hours per market visit
- Budget
- 50,000–200,000 VND (US$2–8) for snacks and small purchases
- Getting there
- Markets are central; use taxis, buses, or walk
- Language
- Vietnamese; English limited
- Currency
- Vietnamese Dong (VND); cash only
What Are Tet Street Markets?
Tet street markets are temporary markets that appear in the week leading up to Lunar New Year. They specialize in holiday essentials: flowers (peach blossoms in the north, yellow apricot in the south), kumquat trees, traditional foods like banh chung, candied fruits, and decorations. Markets are busiest in the evenings, with families shopping together and vendors offering samples. In Hanoi, Hang Luoc Flower Market is famous; in Ho Chi Minh City, Nguyen Hue Flower Street and District 5’s markets are highlights.
When and Where to Go
The largest markets are found in major cities. In Hanoi, Hang Luoc, Quang Ba, and Nhat Tan are well-known. In Ho Chi Minh City, Nguyen Hue Flower Street (a pedestrian zone) opens for about a week before Tet, while District 5 hosts bustling markets with a strong Chinese-Vietnamese character. Most markets operate from around January 24–28 in 2025, closing by Tet Eve (January 28). Smaller towns also have flower and food markets, but these may be less accessible to visitors.
How to Visit Respectfully
Visitors are welcome at Tet markets, but it’s important to be considerate. Dress modestly, avoid blocking walkways, and do not touch displays without permission. Always ask before photographing people, especially families and vendors. Bargaining is common, but keep it friendly—this is a festive time. Try local snacks, but be aware that most vendors accept cash only, and prices are rarely posted.
Practical Tips for Navigating Tet Markets
Markets are extremely crowded in the evenings and just before Tet. Visit in the morning for a quieter experience. Carry small bills (VND 10,000–50,000 notes) and watch your belongings. ATMs near markets may run out of cash or be closed. Public transport is often crowded, and taxis can be hard to find—plan your route in advance. Most markets are outdoors, so bring water and be prepared for changeable weather.
Frequently asked questions
Most Tet street markets close by Tet Eve (January 28, 2025). Some flower displays remain open on the first day of Tet, but most vendors pack up before the holiday begins.
Yes, but always ask permission before photographing people or close-ups of stalls. Many vendors are happy to pose, but Tet is a family time and privacy is appreciated.
Yes. Many vendors sell small portions of banh chung, candied fruits, and other snacks. Bring cash and expect to eat standing up or while walking.
Travel details change — opening hours, prices, and schedules can vary by season. Please verify current information on official websites before your visit.
Sources
- nomadicmatt.com — Primary source
- wanderingwheatleys.com — From research brief
- theculturetrip.com — From research brief
- vietnam.travel — From research brief
- travelfish.org — From research brief
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About the author
Phạm Quốc Bảo
Cities & Events Editor
Quốc Bảo covers Vietnam's cities and their calendars — street life, night markets, festivals, and the people who keep traditions running. He edits with an ear for what actually happens on the ground rather than what the brochures promise.
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