Tet in Vietnam is more than a holiday; it’s the heartbeat of Vietnamese culture. Streets fill with colors, families gather in celebration, and ancient traditions take center stage. For travelers, this season becomes a rare opportunity to witness ceremonies, festivals, and customs that only happen once a year. If you’re wondering how to experience Tet events in Vietnam in the most meaningful way, this guide will help you join the celebrations respectfully and joyfully, just like a local.

Understanding the Spirit Behind Tet Events in Vietnam

Before diving into the events themselves, it helps to understand why Tet holds such deep emotional significance. Tet, or Lunar New Year, marks the transition between the old year and the new one. It is a time for renewal, reunion, and gratitude. In the weeks leading up to the holiday, you’ll see markets bustling with flowers, families cleaning their homes, and locals preparing offerings for ancestral altars. These details set the stage for the celebrations that follow. 

During Tet, events are not just performances or public activities; they are expressions of Vietnamese identity. Fireworks mark the arrival of the new year, temple ceremonies honor ancestors, and street festivals highlight cultural pride. Knowing this gives travelers a deeper appreciation of the events they witness. It's not just entertainment—it's heritage coming alive.

The Most Meaningful Tet Events Vietnam Offers for Visitors

Travelers will find a variety of Tet events across Vietnam, each offering a different glimpse into local traditions. One of the most iconic events is the flower market, which fills major cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Hue with peach blossoms, apricot flowers, kumquat trees, and decorative lanterns. Walking through these markets, especially at night, feels magical as families browse for the perfect blooms to welcome good fortune. Another significant experience is joining temple visits on New Year’s Day. Locals perform prayers for prosperity and health, lighting incense and offering fruits and flowers. Spectacular lion dances take place in many towns, symbolizing the chasing away of bad luck. 

In Hanoi’s Old Quarter, performances often spill into the streets, creating a joyful atmosphere for all ages. Fireworks displays at midnight on Lunar New Year’s Eve are a must-see. Major cities host these at central locations, and the energy of counting down with thousands of people is unforgettable. Travelers can also witness calligraphy festivals, where masters paint lucky words on red paper. These artworks are cherished by families and make meaningful souvenirs for travelers lucky enough to receive one. Traditional games such as bamboo swings, human chess, or folk singing competitions bring rural culture to life, especially in villages or local parks.

Where and How Travelers Can Join Tet Events in Vietnam

Knowing where to go can make the difference between a surface-level visit and a memorable cultural experience. Hanoi offers some of the largest and most diverse Tet events Vietnam has to offer. Hoan Kiem Lake becomes a center of activity with firework shows, calligraphy festivals, traditional performances, and lively night markets. The Old Quarter’s streets glow with decorations and crowds celebrating until late at night. 

Hoi An provides a gentler but equally beautiful experience. Lantern festivals light up the ancient town, and you can join locals in releasing paper lanterns onto the river to welcome luck. The town’s historical charm blends seamlessly with the festive mood, making Tet celebrations here deeply atmospheric. 

Hue offers a more traditional experience, with imperial-style ceremonies and cultural performances. If you prefer authenticity over crowds, the ancient capital is perfect for immersing yourself in heritage. 

In Ho Chi Minh City, Nguyen Hue Flower Street becomes an explosion of color with massive floral artworks, while Chinatown (Cho Lon) hosts lion dances and temple ceremonies buzzing with energy. To navigate these celebrations smoothly, consider booking a Local Buddy through Tubudd. Having a local companion helps you avoid misunderstandings, find the best events, and learn the meaning behind each tradition. You’ll experience Tet like a local instead of feeling like an outsider.

Practical Tips to Enjoy Tet Events Vietnam Like a Local

Experiencing Tet can be magical, but it also requires some preparation. Because businesses and restaurants often close during the first days of the holiday, travelers should plan meals and transportation in advance.

• Plan your schedule ahead of time, especially during the first days of Tet when many shops, restaurants, and transportation services may close. Booking accommodations and key activities early ensures a smoother experience.

• Arrive a few days before the holiday to witness the vibrant pre-Tet atmosphere, including flower markets, house-cleaning traditions, and families preparing offerings.

• Visit temples respectfully, dressing modestly and observing local customs when lighting incense or offering prayers. These simple gestures show cultural appreciation and help you blend in naturally.

• Prepare small red envelopes (li xi) if you’re joining local families or attending community events. Giving symbolic lucky money is considered a kind and respectful gesture during Tet.

• Keep your belongings secure during major public festivities such as fireworks or lion dance performances, as crowds can be dense.

• Book a Local Buddy through Tubudd to help you navigate Tet events confidently, understand cultural meanings, and avoid tourist pitfalls. Having a local companion transforms your experience from observing to truly participating.

• Use Fast Track service if you arrive near peak holiday dates to skip long airport queues and start your Tet adventure without stress.

• Stay flexible with your plans, as some events may shift depending on local customs or weather, especially in northern regions.

• Learn a few simple Vietnamese greetings, such as “Chúc Mừng Năm Mới” (Happy New Year), to connect warmly with locals during celebrations.