Holidays in Vietnam

Vietnam offers a sublime marriage of ancient traditions and vibrant modernity, where natural splendors and cultural riches blend harmoniously. To fully enjoy your stay, it is essential to understand the rhythm of festivals and holidays that punctuate Vietnamese life.

► Discover the traditional festivals of Vietnam
 

Celebrating New Year in Hanoi, near Hoan Kiem - Mr Linh's Adventures

While public institutions strictly observe holidays in Vietnam, the situation is more nuanced for businesses and tourism services. Restaurants, shops and many tourist sites generally maintain their activities to welcome visitors. Tet, in particular, profoundly transforms the country: this celebration of the Lunar New Year is the most important festive period of the year, significantly impacting transport, accommodation and daily life for nearly two weeks.

Vietnam has adopted a pragmatic approach in the organization of its public holidays, favoring their grouping into long weekends rather than a dispersion over the year. This practice reflects a subtle balance between the Gregorian and lunar calendars, celebrating both significant historical events and secular cultural traditions.

The metropolises light up with spectacular fireworks, notably at Hoan Kiem Lake in Hanoi, on Nguyen Hue pedestrian street in Ho Chi Minh City and at the Dragon Bridge in Da Nang. These celebrations are accompanied by artistic and musical performances featuring renowned artists.
 

Ephemeral Tet Flower Market, Hanoi - Mr Linh's Adventures Team

The beating heart of Vietnamese traditions, Tet brings families together for about ten days. The big cities are emptying as everyone returns home for the celebrations. Despite this slowdown, travelers can discover the lively flower markets of Nguyen Hue in Saigon or the picturesque Hang Ma street in Hanoi, dedicated to festive decorations. The old quarter and the French quarter of Hanoi remain essential.
Good to know: Lunar New Year Tet has a major impact on transport (reservations to be made very early), accommodation (often increased prices) and services, with many closures. It is therefore strongly recommended to book your flights and accommodation several months in advance and to plan alternatives for meals.

► Learn more about Lunar New Year in Vietnam

Giỗ Tổ Hùng Vương commemorates the legendary founders of Vietnam. It takes place in Phu Tho province. The festival offers a rich program of traditional activities: boat races, culinary competitions, lion dances and folk shows. In Ha Noi, this is an opportunity to discover the Temple of Literature in Hanoi, the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long and the surrounding traditional villages of the capital. Meanwhile, Da Nang offers seaside activities such as art exhibitions, artistic kite flying, water sports, sandcastle competitions and a gastronomic festival. In Saigon, the city that never sleeps, you can explore a unique and diverse culinary scene, or stroll along Nguyen Hue pedestrian street.

► Discover our Top 8 Traditional Festivals in Northern Vietnam
 

Dinh Độc Lập, or Reunification Palace, Ho Chi Minh City - Mr Linh's Adventures Team

These two consecutive holidays are often extended to create a bridge, potentially from April 30 to May 4, 2025. In Ho Chi Minh City, you can immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Ben Thanh market, explore the Cholon district and its Binh Tay market, visit Notre-Dame Cathedral of Saigon and the central post office, or discover the Reunification Palace and the Cu Chi tunnels.

While the festivities we have just mentioned are anchored in the holiday calendar, others, just as spectacular, invite discovery and wonder. This is the case of the Da Nang International Fireworks Festival, an event that lights up the city's sky and the hearts of spectators. Under the theme "Danang - The New Rising Era", this edition will mark the 50th anniversary of the city's liberation. The region also offers the splendid beaches of My Khe and Non Nuoc, the impressive Golden Bridge of Ba Na Hills, and the charming Hoi An, a UNESCO gem with preserved streets.
 

Streets of Hanoi during National Day - Collected

Potentially extended from August 30 to September 2, this period is ideal for exploring Ho Chi Minh City: the dynamic Ben Thanh market, the Chinese district of Cho Lon, the majestic Notre-Dame Cathedral, the central post office in French colonial style, the symbolic Reunification Palace and the historic Cu Chi tunnels.

The Lunar New Year will fall on Tuesday, February 17, involving celebrations over approximately two weeks around this date.

Imagine yourself already in the heart of the festivities. To make this dream a reality, book your flights and accommodation well in advance, especially if you are traveling during popular periods. Local transport can be capricious, so plan alternatives and check the opening hours of the sites you wish to visit.

Holidays have a price, but that shouldn't spoil your pleasure. Anticipate price increases and allow a margin for special activities. Remember that some services may be increased during this period.

Open your heart to local traditions and participate in celebrations if the opportunity arises. Take the time to understand the meaning of the holidays, it's a wonderful way to connect with the country's culture.

To avoid hassles, book your trains and buses in advance. But keep an open mind: plans can change due to crowds. Be flexible and make way for the unexpected, that's often where the best surprises lie.
 

Huong King Festival - Vietnam Plus

As your trip to Vietnam approaches, picture yourself amidst the festivities. These holidays are your chance to see the country's heart, connect with its people, and make memories that will stick with you for years to come. Get ready to dive into the celebrations and discover a deeper appreciation for Vietnam's vibrant culture.