Vietnam offers an unforgettable experience for anyone seeking an enriching Vietnam New Year tour. As the country celebrates both the Western New Year and the Lunar New Year, known as “Tet,” travelers are treated to a unique blend of cultural festivities. Whether you’re looking to enjoy vibrant countdown parties in cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, or explore the traditional Tet Festival with its colorful customs and delicious food, there’s something for every type of traveler. This guide from Ftrip Vietnam will help you explore the best New Year trips in Vietnam, including tips for top tours and festivities, ensuring your holiday in Vietnam is nothing short of magical.
Understanding the significance of Vietnam’s New Year
Tet is more than a holiday; it’s a cherished tradition uniting Vietnam to welcome the lunar new year. It signifies renewal, reflection, and hope, with preparations starting weeks in advance across cities and villages.
Origins and History of Tet
Dating back thousands of years, Tet blends ancient agricultural practices with lunar calendar observance. Traditionally, families honor ancestors and seek blessings, influenced by historical ties to China. Despite colonial struggles and wars, Tet symbolizes resilience and national pride, celebrated as an official public holiday.
Cultural Traditions and Customs During Tet
Tet features customs highlighting family connections and respect for ancestors. Before Tet, families clean and decorate their homes to discard misfortune and invite luck. Peach blossoms in the north, yellow apricot flowers in the south, and kumquat trees symbolize prosperity.
Special dishes like Bánh chưng and Bánh tét (sticky rice cakes) are prepared, representing abundance through their ingredients. These meals become central to family gatherings. The custom of giving “li xi,” or lucky money, in red envelopes, conveys good wishes. Children eagerly await this tradition, while elders enjoy blessing the younger generation.
These traditions enrich Vietnam’s New Year celebration, showcasing its cultural depth and communal spirit.
Planning Your Wonderful Vietnam New Year Tour
Embarking on a Vietnam New Year tour requires thoughtful planning to ensure you maximally immerse yourself in the festivities. There are countless ways to create lasting memories during this festive period.
Duration of the Tet Holiday in Vietnam
Tet typically lasts for about a week, though the celebrations often extend beyond this timeframe, with preparations commencing weeks in advance. Officially, the Tet holiday begins on the first day of the lunar calendar, which usually falls between late January and mid-February. Businesses and schools may close for an extended period, creating both opportunities and challenges for visitors.
Best Destinations to Experience Tet Festivities
Choosing the right destination is crucial for an enriching Vietnam New Year tour. Each region presents its unique ways of celebrating Tet, allowing visitors to witness diverse practices and partake in local customs.
In Hanoi, the capital city, visitors can experience the enchanting sight of flower markets blooming with colorful displays, and enjoy traditional music performances. The Old Quarter is filled with festivity, where street vendors sell decorative items and delicious treats.
Ho Chi Minh City offers a contemporary urban vibe during Tet, with lively festivals and grand fireworks displays. Visiting local neighborhoods, such as “Cho Lon”, the city’s Chinatown, reveals authentic celebrations, from lion dances to food fairs.
For those seeking a quieter atmosphere, the coastal town of Hoi An provides an intimate setting. Lantern-lit streets come alive as locals participate in rituals at temples, making it a picturesque backdrop for capturing memories.
Tips for Booking Accommodations and Transportation
Due to Tet’s popularity, early accommodation booking is crucial. Hotels and guesthouses quickly fill up as families return home, so secure your stay in advance.
Consider homestays or boutique hotels for a personal touch, enhancing your cultural experience. Staying with locals can offer unique insights and may even invite you to family festivities.
For transportation, arrange tickets ahead of time—flights, trains, or buses are all popular. Trains provide beautiful countryside views, while buses allow spontaneous encounters with fellow travelers.
Be prepared for potential delays from increased traffic during Tet. Remaining flexible will enhance your travel experience and reduce stress from tight schedules.
Local Cuisine to Try During the Vietnam New year tour
Cuisine plays a vital role in the Tet celebration, with each dish conveying deeper meanings connected to fortune and family unity. Sample traditional foods that highlight regional flavors.
Bánh chưng and Bánh tét are essential staples during Tet, and no visit would be complete without indulging in these sticky rice cakes. They are often made with love, as families come together to prepare them, filling the air with savory scents.
Sampling Tôm rim (caramelized shrimp) and Thịt kho trứng (braised pork and eggs) showcases the comfort of home-cooked meals that embody Tet’s spirit of sharing. Savoring these dishes in local eateries or family homes allows you to appreciate the warmth of Vietnamese hospitality.
Street food markets are brimming with vendors selling unique Tet treats like bánh tét chocolate or candied fruits. These sweet delicacies present a delightful way to sample local flavors while mingling with the community.
Must-See Activities and Festive Events in Vietnam New year tour
Engaging in Tet activities enhances your understanding of Vietnamese culture. Don’t miss local events and festivities in different cities. A must-see is the Tet flower festival, where colorful blooms fill parks. Stroll through displays, snap stunning photos, and enjoy the floral scents. Temples also host special ceremonies for ancestors during Tet. Participating in these rituals deepens community connections and highlights family significance in Vietnamese culture.
Fireworks are a key part of Tet, especially in big cities. The vibrant displays and festive atmosphere create lasting memories. Join in local games like dragon boat racing or tug-of-war that reflect traditional Vietnamese culture, fostering community spirit and fun.
Read more: Vietnam new year is coming close! What to do if you are here?
This New Year 2025, embark on an unforgettable journey to Vietnam and immerse yourself in the vibrant celebrations and cultural richness of this captivating country. Ftrip Vietnam offers personalized Vietnam New Year tours designed to create lasting memories for your family. We’ll curate an itinerary that perfectly matches your interests, from exploring bustling city celebrations and serene countryside landscapes to engaging in unique cultural activities and savoring authentic Vietnamese cuisine.
