Travelling to Vietnam During Tết (Lunar New Year) 2026 

If your travel plans include Vietnam in February, you’ll encounter one of the country’s most meaningful annual celebrations: Tết Nguyên Đán — the Vietnamese Lunar New Year. This holiday isn’t just a festival — it’s a week-long cultural experience that dramatically shapes everyday life for locals and visitors alike.

When Is Tết in 2026?

In 2026, the first day of Tết falls on Tuesday, 17 February 2026.
The official holiday period tends to span 14–22 February 2026, with many locals taking time off before and after these dates.

But the festive atmosphere starts earlier — vibrant flower markets and preparation rituals begin about a week before New Year’s Day.

Why Tết Is Special
Tết is more than a holiday — it’s a time for family, renewal, and tradition.

Locals:

• return to their hometowns to reunite with family
• decorate homes with blossoms, kumquat trees, and banners
• prepare traditional foods and offer prayers at altars
• exchange best wishes for health and prosperity
  

 

What It’s Like Day-by-Day

Before Tết (about Feb 10–16) This is one of the most vibrant times to visit:

• markets bustle with flowers and lucky goods
• streets glow with decorations
• families shop for holiday supplies
• locals are cheerful and festive

 

New Year’s Eve (16 Feb) & New Year’s Day (17 Feb)

• Midnight prayers and fireworks in major cities
• Streets may be quieter on the first day as families stay home
• Many shops and restaurants will be closed or operate limited hours

 

Post-Tết (18 Feb onward)

• Life gradually returns to normal:
• attractions and services reopen
• tours and museums resume regular schedules
• crowds thin but festive decorations often remain

 

Where to Experience Tết

Vietnam’s regions celebrate with local variations:

– Hanoi & the North:
Cool weather, peach blossoms, ancestral rituals — a more traditional vibe.

– Ho Chi Minh City & South:
Bright yellow Hoa Mai blooms and vibrant festivals like Nguyen Hue Flower Street in Saigon.

– Hoi An & Central Vietnam:
Lanterns light up ancient streets; the slower pace makes exploration lovely even during the holiday.

Practical Tips for Travellers Expect Closures 

Small shops, local eateries, and some attractions may close for several days around 17–19 February — plan meals and itineraries accordingly.

Bring Cash:

ATMs may not be regularly refilled during the holiday, and banks are closed on public holiday dates, so withdraw extra cash beforehand.

Adjust Your Itinerary:

Instead of a packed schedule, enjoy:

– flower markets
– walking tours of quiet city streets
– temple and pagoda visits
– cultural events and performances

Respect Local Customs

Dress neatly at temples, be mindful around family rituals, and remember: if locals invite you to their celebrations, it’s a genuine cultural honour.

Travelling to Vietnam during Tết isn’t like a typical tourist season — it’s a cultural immersion filled with genuine local traditions, festive markets, and meaningful celebrations. With advance planning and an open mind, this can be one of the most rewarding and memorable experiences of your trip.