A Guide to Experiencing Tết: Vietnam’s Most Celebrated Holiday

Tết in Vietnam is an unforgettable cultural experience that every traveler should explore. Known as the Vietnamese Lunar New Year, Tết is the most important and eagerly awaited holiday in the country. Marking the arrival of spring and a new year in the lunar calendar, Tết is a time of reunion, gratitude, and cultural traditions that reflect the heart of Vietnamese culture. If you’re planning to visit Vietnam during Tết, this guide will help you understand its significance and make the most of your experience.

What is Tết?

Tết Nguyên Đán, or simply Tết, usually falls in late January or early February, depending on the lunar calendar. It is a time when families come together to honor their ancestors, welcome the new year, and bid farewell to the old. The celebration typically lasts for seven to ten days, with some traditions beginning even earlier.

Key Traditions of Tết

1. Cleaning and Decorating Homes

In the days leading up to Tết, families thoroughly clean their homes to sweep away bad luck and make space for good fortune. Decorations include kumquat trees, peach blossoms in the north, apricot blossoms in the south, and red banners with auspicious phrases like “Chúc Mừng Năm Mới” (Happy New Year).

2. Offering to Ancestors

Ancestral worship is a significant part of Tết. Families prepare altars with offerings such as fruits, sticky rice cakes (bánh chưng or bánh tét), and incense to pay respects and invite their ancestors to join the celebration.

3. Lucky Money (“Lì xì”)

One of the most exciting traditions for children is receiving red envelopes filled with money, called “lì xì.” These envelopes symbolize good luck and prosperity. It’s also customary for elders to give these envelopes to younger family members and unmarried adults.

4. Tất Niên Meal

The Tất Niên meal, held on New Year’s Eve, is a grand family feast that marks the transition from the old year to the new. Dishes often include sticky rice cakes, boiled chicken, pickled vegetables, and other regional specialties.

5. Visiting Pagodas and Temples

Many Vietnamese visit pagodas and temples during Tết to pray for health, happiness, and success. The sound of bells, the scent of incense, and the vibrant atmosphere create a serene and festive experience.

6. First Visitor Tradition (“Xông đất”)

The first person to enter a home on New Year’s Day is believed to determine the family’s fortune for the year. Families carefully select this person based on their zodiac sign, age, and personality traits.

Where to Experience Tết in Vietnam

1. Hanoi

In the capital city, Tết is a blend of traditional and modern festivities. Visit the Old Quarter to explore vibrant Tết markets, where you can buy decorations, flowers, and local delicacies. Don’t miss the iconic fireworks display around Hoan Kiem Lake on New Year’s Eve.

2. Hue

As Vietnam’s former imperial capital, Hue offers a more traditional and serene Tết experience. The city’s pagodas and the historic Imperial Citadel are perfect places to witness rituals and ceremonies steeped in history.

3. Ho Chi Minh City

In the bustling southern metropolis, Tết is celebrated with vibrant street decorations and events. Nguyen Hue Flower Street is a must-visit, showcasing elaborate floral displays and art installations. Fireworks and lively celebrations light up the city’s skyline.

Tết Foods to Try

1. Bánh Chưng and Bánh Tét

These sticky rice cakes are staples of Tết. Bánh chưng (square-shaped) and bánh tét (cylindrical) are made with glutinous rice, mung beans, and pork, wrapped in banana leaves.

2. Pickled Vegetables 

Pickled vegetables are a common accompaniment to Tết meals, balancing the richness of other dishes with their tangy flavors.

3. Thịt Kho Trứng

A southern specialty, this dish features caramelized pork belly and boiled eggs simmered in coconut water, offering a sweet and savory taste.

4. Candied Fruits (“Mứt Tết”)

A colorful platter of candied fruits, such as coconut, ginger, and kumquat, is often served to guests during Tết as a sweet treat.

Travel Tips for Tết in Vietnam

1. Plan Ahead

Tết is a peak travel season in Vietnam, so book your flights and accommodations well in advance. Be aware that many businesses close during the holiday, especially in smaller towns.

2. Respect Local Customs

When visiting homes or temples, dress modestly and be mindful of traditions. For example, avoid wearing black, as it’s considered unlucky during Tết.

3. Embrace the Festivities

Join the locals in Tết markets, flower festivals, and street celebrations. These experiences provide a deeper understanding of Vietnam’s rich culture.

4. Be Patient

Transportation and services can be slower during Tết due to high demand. Pack some patience and enjoy the unique atmosphere of this special time.

Why Visit Vietnam During Tết?

Tết is not just a holiday; it’s a window into Vietnam’s soul. From the vibrant streets filled with flowers and laughter to the solemn moments of ancestral worship, Tết showcases the country’s deep-rooted traditions and sense of community. It’s an opportunity to connect with locals, taste authentic dishes, and witness the heartfelt joy that defines Vietnamese culture.

Experiencing Tết in Vietnam is an unforgettable journey into the heart of the country’s traditions and hospitality. Whether you’re exploring bustling markets, savoring festive foods, or joining in the celebrations, Tết offers a unique and enriching travel experience. Plan your trip, embrace the spirit of Tết, and start your new year with a cultural adventure like no other!

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