Discover how Vietnamese celebrate Tet Nguyen Dan, the Lunar New Year! This guide covers traditions, etiquette, food, events, and top destinations for an authentic Tet experience in 2026.
Hanoi Old Quarter flower market (Source: Internet)Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years in Southeast Asia travel, guiding 100,000+ visitors. Insights from Legend Travel Group expertise and guest feedback. Data current as of January 2026; verify plans before travel.
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Peach blossoms in Hanoi (Source: Internet)Tet Nguyen Dan, or Tet, marks the Vietnamese Lunar New Year and the arrival of spring. It follows the lunisolar calendar, typically falling in late January or early February.
In 2026, Tet falls on January 28 (Year of the Horse). Celebrations span several days, with preparations starting weeks earlier.
Tet embodies family reunion, ancestor reverence, renewal, and good fortune. It's Vietnam's biggest holiday—streets burst with flowers, homes get thorough cleanings, and everyone enjoys special foods.
For travelers, Tet offers a unique cultural immersion, though many businesses close and transport fills up.
House Cleaning and Decorating — Families clean homes to sweep away bad luck. They decorate with peach blossoms (North), apricot blossoms (South), kumquat trees, and red envelopes.
Ancestor Worship — Altars feature offerings like fruits, flowers, and incense to honor ancestors.
Family Reunion Dinner — On New Year's Eve (Giao Thua), families share a feast and stay up for the midnight transition.
First Visitor (Xong Dat) — The year's first guest should bring good luck—often an elder or successful person.
Lucky Money (Li Xi) — Elders give red envelopes with new bills to children and unmarried adults for prosperity.
Taboos — Avoid sweeping on the first day (sweeps away luck), black/white clothing (mourning colors), or arguments.
Travelers Tip: Respect these customs—wear colorful clothes and avoid sensitive topics.
Banh Chung preparation (Source: Internet)Banh Chung/Banh Tet → Square (North) or cylindrical (South) rice cakes with mung bean, pork, wrapped in banana leaves—symbolize earth.
Mut Tet → Candied fruits and seeds tray, representing sweetness.
Thit Kho Tau → Braised pork with eggs in coconut caramel, a Southern staple.
Gio Cha → Vietnamese ham and sausages.
Pickled Onions (Dua Hanh) → Balances rich dishes.
Fresh Fruits → Mangoes, papayas, dragon fruit for altars and snacking.
Street food stalls close during Tet, but hotels and tourist areas often serve special menus.
Hanoi (North Vietnam)
Old Quarter flower markets
Hoan Kiem Lake fireworks
Peach blossom streets
Temple visits (e.g., Temple of Literature)
Hoi An (Central Vietnam)
Lantern-lit ancient town
Quieter, romantic atmosphere
Apricot blossoms and river boat rides
Ho Chi Minh City (South Vietnam)
Nguyen Hue Flower Street
Massive fireworks
Vibrant markets before closures
Hue (Imperial City)
Royal traditions and palace decorations
Perfume River celebrations
Rural Homestays (Mai Chau or Sapa)
Authentic family experiences
Ethnic minority celebrations
Pro Tip: Book early—flights and hotels fill up months in advance.
Family altar with offerings (Source: Internet)Pros:
Unique cultural immersion
Beautiful decorations
Fewer crowds at major sites (after initial days)
Cons:
Many shops/restaurants close (Jan 26–Feb 2, 2026)
Transport packed before/after Tet
Higher prices for remaining services
Essential Tips:
Book flights/hotels 3–6 months ahead
Carry cash (ATMs may run dry)
Stock snacks/medications
Visit flower markets Jan 25–27
Join public fireworks (Hanoi/HCMC)
Consider guided Tet tours for seamless experience
Traditional Tet feast (Source: Internet)Experience authentic Tet with our expert-led tours:
Hanoi Tet Celebration (4 days) → Old Quarter homestay, flower markets, family dinner → $300–$500/person
Northern Vietnam Tet Explorer (7 days) → Hanoi → Halong Bay → Sapa ethnic villages → $800–$1,200/person
Vietnam Highlights with Tet (10 days) → Hanoi → Halong → Hoi An → Ho Chi Minh City → $1,500–$2,500/person
All tours include English-speaking guides, transport, and special Tet activities. Limited spots—book early!
Contact: legendtravelgroup.com or WhatsApp +84 825862222
Fireworks over Hoan Kiem Lake (Source: Internet)Tet transforms Vietnam into a colorful, joyful celebration of family, renewal, and hope. While challenging for independent travel, it offers unparalleled cultural immersion.
Whether witnessing Hanoi’s flower markets, cruising Halong Bay under fireworks, or sharing a family meal in a rural homestay, Tet creates lifelong memories.
Plan ahead, embrace local customs, and let Vietnam’s warm hospitality welcome you into the New Year.
Chuc Mung Nam Moi! (Happy New Year!)
Sources:
Legend Travel Group expertise
Vietnam National Administration of Tourism
Guest feedback 2024–2025
