Vietnam Things To See & Do

New Year Holiday in Vietnam: Things to do & Places to go

The turning from the old year to the new one is such a special time full of magic! Have you ever wondered how people all over the world celebrate their new year? Let Incredible Asia Journeys tell you about the delightful New Year Holiday in Vietnam! This blog will show you all the exciting things to do and the best places to visit Vietnam during the New Year trip. [incredible_toc]Stay tuned to uncover why Vietnam should be at the top of your list for this upcoming New Year holiday!1. New Year Holiday in Vietnam OverviewTourists make Banh Chung (Chung Cake) in Tet occasionAs a nation deeply influenced by Eastern culture, Vietnam celebrates 2 types of New Year: the internationally recognized Gregorian New Year and the traditional Lunar New Year, also known as Tet. Thus, the country observes two distinct New Year holidays, each with its own unique customs, traditions, and significance in Vietnamese culture.1.1. Gregorian New Year in VietnamIn Vietnam, people come together to celebrate the Gregorian New Year on January 1st with joyful and lively festivities. Just like in many parts of the world, everyone gets the day off to enjoy the holiday. In cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, and Hue, you can expect to find exciting parties and countdown events on the eve of December 31st to welcome the new year with open arms.1.2. Lunar New Year in Vietnam (Tet Holiday) Tet atmosphere in VietnamWhat is Tet? Tet, also known as the Vietnam Lunar New Year, is the most important holiday in Vietnam, celebrated over 3 days but often for a whole week. The date of Tet changes every year because it follows the Vietnamese lunar calendar, so it usually falls in late January or early February according to the Gregorian calendar.Like the Christmas and New Year celebration period in the UK, Tet marks the arrival of spring and the lunar new year is a time for family reunions, honoring ancestors, and celebrating with traditional customs and foods.Keep in mind upcoming Tet Dates to Vietnam travels:- Tet 2025 on January 29th (Year of the Snake)- Tet 2026 on February 17th (Year of the Horse)- Tet 2027 on February 6th (Year of the Goat)- Tet 2028 on January 26th (Year of the Monkey)2. Things To Do in Vietnam during the New Year HolidayNew year comes, and there are a variety of fun events and festivals specially held in Vietnam to experience. Let's delve into what each of them has to offer!2.1. Raise the Toast at New Year’s Eve PartyHave a meal with traditional food in Vietnam New Year HolidayLet's come together with the locals to raise a toast at a vibrant New Year's Eve party, celebrating the successes of the past year and offering our best wishes for the year ahead. Only in Vietnam, throughout the night, people gather to enjoy festivities and revel in the joyful atmosphere, shouting the signature drinking cheer "1, 2, 3, dzo!!" undoubtedly creating a strong sense of drinking enjoyment.For tourists, you can embrace the spirit of New Year's Eve in Vietnam, it's a time to join grand celebrations. Numerous 5-star hotels and resorts host Gala Dinners, providing a delightful opportunity for guests to create cherished memories. These events are marked by lavish buffets and captivating live music performances, promising an unforgettable start to the new year.2.2. Sway with Melodies at the Countdown Music FestivalsCountdown concerts in HanoiCountdown concerts are a highlight, featuring live music, dancing, and fireworks. Major cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, and Hue host FREE festivals in public spare areas such as open parks and walking streets, inviting everyone to celebrate together. Don’t miss the chance to burn out with music of top famous artists!2.3. Witness the Professional Fireworks or Drone PerformanceDuring New Year's celebrations in Vietnam, the military often organizes spectacular fireworks and drone performances to ensure safety and a stunning display. Cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh, and Da Nang feature spectacular fireworks on New Year's Eve, and the sky lights up with vibrant colors and patterns at exactly 00:00, creating a magical spectacle. Some of the best spots to watch the fireworks include rooftop bars, city centers, waterfront areas, and designated viewing areas. It's important to arrive early to secure a good spot for the show.Hanoi fireworks and drones performance on New Year's Eve2.4. Give the Lucky Money in Lunar New YearDuring Tet, people visit each other's homes to “Chuc Tet” (wish the best for the New Year), then enjoy confectionary and drinks together. Even strangers exchange warm wishes, making it a heartwarming experience for tourists. Moreover, giving "Li Xi" (or Lucky Money) in red envelopes to children and elders is a cherished traditional Vietnam culture. As a tourist, you can participate in these activities, but be sure to familiarize yourself with local customs to avoid cultural misunderstandings.2.5. Go Sightseeing at Temples and PagodasVisiting pagodas and temples is a common practice during Tet, as people pray for luck and peace in the new year. Pagodas are beautifully decorated with flowers, offering a serene escape and cultural insight. Visitors can come to recommended pagodas including Bai Dinh in Ninh Binh, Yen Tu in Quang Ninh, and Perfume Pagoda in Hanoi for sightseeing. Also, there are many traditional festivals held at temples and pagodas during this period that provide a deep dive into Vietnamese culture.2.6. Savor Traditional Vietnamese CuisineBanh Chung cooking classTet is a time to enjoy a variety of traditional Vietnamese dishes that are specially prepared for the New Year. Tourists can join hands to make the traditional dishes with local people.Some must-try dishes include Banh Chung (square sticky rice cake), Nem Ran (fried spring roll),  Gio Lua (Vietnamese pork sausage), and Xoi (sticky rice). These Vietnamese traditional foods are not only delicious but also carry cultural significance and are often shared among family and friends.3. Best New Year Destinations in Vietnam3.1. HanoiHang Ma Street in Tet HolidayThe capital city of Vietnam, Hanoi is a main destination to experience the vibrant celebrations of the Vietnamese New Year. As Tet approaches before 1 week, the city buzzes with many things to do & see and joy. The Hoan Kiem Lake (Sword Lake) area will become particularly vibrant and lively, hosting exciting countdown events as well as fireworks displays. Moreover, the Hanoi Old Quarter is transformed with festive adornments and bustling local markets offering an array of traditional Tet goods. If you're in search of traditional decorative items like lanterns, red envelopes, god of wealth figurines, red parallel sentences, or firecrackers, make your way to Hang Ma Street. For candies, jams, melon seeds, and other traditional delicacies, a visit to Hang Buom Street is a must. Lastly, you can immerse yourself in the beauty of fresh flowers at the Quang Ba Flower Market.3.2. Ninh BinhNinh Binh vibrant festival atmosphereTraveling to Ninh Binh during Tet Holiday is an opportunity to immerse yourself in the ancient tranquility, experience the charm of the mountains and rivers, and discover the remnants of a once magnificent dynasty in Vietnamese history. Spring is the best time to visit Ninh Binh with beautiful flowers and lush greenery, thus taking a boat trip to Trang An or Tam Coc to go sightseeing. All the tourist spots and fun places in Ninh Binh have longer hours to welcome a lot of visitors. You can enjoy all kinds of cool events like music shows, art exhibitions, and cultural activities at Hoa Lu Ancient Town. Then, you can visit the Thung Nham eco-tourism area for an art program with traditional art, singing, dancing, puppetry,... They also have activities for welcoming the new year of Thai and Muong ethnicity.3.3. Hoi AnTourists wear Ao Dai to enjoy Tet in Hoi AnIn the New Year Holiday, Hoi An experiences favorable weather with slight sunshine and cool breeze, making it very suitable for outdoor activities. The city hosts a spring flower festival on roads in the inner city area. On New Year’s Eve (the night of the 30th Tet), there are music performances, lucky charms for spring, and art shows to welcome the new year. During Tet in the Hoi An ancient town, there are many cultural activities are held including street music exchanges, creative corners and art installation spaces, and art performances. Additionally, other annual activities such as tree-planting Tet festivals, Tra Que Cotton Bridge Worshiping Ceremony, Kim Bong Carpentry Patriarch's death anniversary, Lunar New Year Festival, and Cam Nam Sticky Rice Festival will be maintained.3.4. Da NangDa Nang is renowned for its stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife, making it a sought-after destination for New Year celebrations. The city hosts energetic countdown parties and stunning fireworks displays along the Han River.During the New Year festivities, tourists can participate in the Dragon Bridge program including rotation of the bridge, fire & water shows at night in Han River, flower and lighting decorations for Tet, a check-in background at the Dragon Bridge area, and New Year's Eve fireworks. Additionally, visitors can explore many other top things to do in Da Nang such as climbing the Marble Mountains, visiting the Linh Ung Pagoda, or unwinding on My Khe Beach during their Vietnam visit during the New Year Holiday.3.5. Ho Chi Minh CityNguyen Hue Flower Street in Ho Chi Minh CityHo Chi Minh City, Vietnam's largest metropolis, offers energetic and diverse New Year festivities. Rooftop bars and restaurants provide stunning views of the city's fireworks. The bustling Nguyen Hue Walking Street has become a hub of activities, including concerts, light shows, flower festivals, and street performances. Don't miss the chance to visit iconic landmarks like the Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon and Ben Thanh Market.You can like our designed tour Best of Vietnam for New Year, not only exploring Ho Chi Minh City but also other top tourist attractions such as Hoi An, Halong Bay, Mekong Delta,...4. Travel costs and crowd in New Year Holiday in VietnamTourist crowd in New Year Holiday in Hoi AnDuring Tet, major cities might feel less crowded as locals travel home to celebrate with their families. However, after the first few days of Tet, popular destinations and pagodas can become crowded, leading to traffic jams and higher prices for flights, services, food, transportation, and accommodations can rise up to about 15-20%. Be prepared for surcharges and some closed shops during this period.5. Tips to travel to Vietnam during New Year 2025New Year Holiday is the most important holiday in Vietnam, attracting tourists with its bustling, vibrant atmosphere and unique cultural features. However, traveling during Tet also has its own notes to ensure you have a complete and memorable trip. Keep in mind these tips during the New Year Holiday in Vietnam!- Plan your Vietnam tour packages for at least 2-3 months before the Tet Holiday to secure the best options and avoid inflated prices. - Learn about the customs and traditions associated with the holiday, such as exchanging New Year greetings, visiting ancestral homes, and attending local festivals. - Anticipate higher prices for services and goods during Tet. Budget accordingly to accommodate increased expenses.- Many Vietnamese people don't bargain during Tet, as it is considered bad luck. If you do bargain, be polite and respectful.- The weather can be unpredictable during Tet. It can be hot and sunny in southern Vietnam while cool and rainy in northern Vietnam. Be sure to pack for all types of each region’s Vietnam weather.Da Nang in New Year HolidayVietnam has 2 kinds of New Year Holidays, however, the Lunar New Year offers a unique blend of lively festivities and rich cultural experiences. Whether you join in the energetic countdown parties or explore serene pagodas, you'll find plenty to do and see in Vietnam. Let Incredible Asia Journeys be your guide to help you embrace the warm hospitality and festive spirit of your New Year holiday. Contact us to plan your Vietnam New Year trip as soon as possible!

Vietnamese New Year's Traditional Food: Must-try recipes

Vietnam has an amazing variety of food that differs by region and occasion. In particular, the traditional food eaten during Vietnamese New Year is especially important and delicious for tourists who visit Vietnam in New Year Holiday. In this blog, Incredible Asia Journeys will tell you about TOP must-try traditional Vietnamese New Year Food.[incredible_toc]Follow us as we explore the diverse range of Vietnamese cuisine from the North to the South during the Lunar New Year!1. Understanding Tet and Vietnamese Lunar New Year Food1.1. What is Tet?Traditional Tet (Lunar New Year) in VietnamTet (Lunar New Year) is the greatest and most important occasion in Vietnam, marking the arrival of spring based on the lunar calendar. Celebrated in late January or early February, Tet signifies a fresh start and new beginnings, it’s a time for Vietnamese family reunions, paying respects to ancestors, and enjoying special festive foods. Therefore, even though family circumstances are difficult, people still try to prepare a full Tet feast. So, tourists coming to Vietnam to savor the traditional food is the best thing to do in Vietnam!1.2. Weather & Regional Influences on Vietnamese Lunar New Year FoodThe differences in weather across Vietnam during the Lunar New Year lead to diverse Vietnamese New Year food that reflects the local climate and agricultural practices. In the north, the weather is cold and dry influencing the preference for hearty and warming dishes during the chilly days. Meanwhile, in central Vietnam, the weather can be milder but still wet, leading to foods that balance flavors and preserve ingredients. Central Vietnam Tet food is often packed with intense flavors to complement the humid climate. In the south, the weather is typically warm and dry, encouraging the use of fresh, tropical ingredients in dishes. The abundance of fresh produce and milder climate result in lighter, sweeter dishes that are perfect for the festive season. Thus, the distinct weather patterns, lifestyles, and available resources in each region shape the unique Tet food traditions across Vietnam.Each region in Vietnam has its unique Tet lifestyles2. Best Vietnamese New Year FoodTypically, Vietnamese Lunar New Year food varies by region, with each having its unique Vietnamese Tet food. Get ready foodies, it’s time to sneak a peak at each region's dining table!1.1. Northern Vietnam New Year FoodBanh Chung (Square sticky rice cake)Banh Chung stands at the top of the list of Vietnamese food during Lunar New Year. This square-shaped rice cake is made from mung beans, seasoned pork, and sticky rice, all wrapped in dong leaves. Traditionally, the square shape of Banh Chung Vietnamese New Year food represents the Earth and holds deep meanings related to the universe. When eaten, you can feel the chewy sticky rice, the pork is savory and tender, and the mung bean paste is smooth and subtly sweet. Northern people also enjoy a fried version of Banh Chung, where slices of the cake are pan-fried with a little oil over moderate heat until the outer layer becomes crispy while the inside remains soft.Banh Chung is preparing to be boiledXoi Gac (Red sticky rice)Xoi Gac is known for its vibrant red color which symbolizes good luck and prosperity. This festive sticky rice dish is made from glutinous rice mixed with the flesh of Gac fruit (Cochinchin gourd), which imparts its striking hue. The process begins with soaking the rice and then combining it with the gac fruit, coconut milk, and a bit of sugar to enhance the sweetness.When you take a bite of Xoi Gac, you'll experience chewy and slightly sweet sticky rice, while the coconut milk adds a creamy richness. The subtle sweetness of the rice is perfectly balanced by the aromatic essence of the gac fruit, making each mouthful a unique and enjoyable experience. This dish is often enjoyed as a part of the Vietnamese New Year dishes and is also served during other festive occasions to bring good fortune throughout the year.The beautiful color of Xoi GacGio (Vietnamese sausage)Gio is another Vietnamese New Year food, often served alongside Xoi (sticky rice) and Banh Chung. This traditional sausage is crafted from lean meat mixed with fish sauce, wrapped in leaves, and boiled for several hours. Eating Gio Lua, you can feel a delicately flavored sausage with a smooth, firm texture that complements the other festive dishes perfectly. There are various types of Gio, classified by their main ingredient: Gio Lua (pork), Gio Ga (chicken), and Gio Bo (beef). These varieties are not only enjoyed during Tet but are also popular year-round in Vietnamese cuisine.Ga Luoc (Boiled chicken)Ga Luoc (Boiled chicken)Ga Luoc, or boiled chicken, is often used in offerings to ancestors and is a symbol of prosperity and unity. The preparation sounds simple yet precise, a whole chicken is boiled until the meat is tender and the skin is a beautiful golden hue without crack. The resulting flavor is subtly savory, with the chicken's natural juices enhanced by a touch of salt. It is typically served with a side of salt, pepper, and lime dipping sauce, which adds a zesty kick to each bite. Nem Ran (Fried spring roll)Nem Ran, also known as fried spring rolls, is one of the most popular traditional foods not only served in Northern Vietnam but also in other regions in Tet. These crispy rolls are filled with a mixture of minced pork, mushrooms, vermicelli noodles, and various vegetables, all seasoned to perfection. The rolls are wrapped in rice paper and then fried until golden brown and crispy. When you bite into a Nem Ran, you experience a satisfying crunch followed by a burst of savory and aromatic flavors from the filling. They are typically served with a bowl of dipping sauce made from fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, and chili, which complements the rich and savory rolls perfectly. Thit Dong (Jellied pork)Thit Dong (Jellied Pork)Thit Dong is food for Vietnamese new year in northern Vietnam. This cold dish is made by simmering pork and pork skin with fish sauce, pepper, and garlic until the natural gelatin from the pork creates a jelly-like consistency. Once cooled, the mixture solidifies into a savory jelly that is sliced and served. The flavor of Thit Dong is savory and slightly garlicky, with a smooth and silky texture that melts in your mouth. It's often enjoyed with pickled vegetables and sticky rice, providing a refreshing contrast to the rich and savory jelly. 1.2. Central Vietnam New Year FoodBanh Tet (Cylindrical sticky rice cake)Banh Tet is a traditional Vietnamese New Year food enjoyed especially in central and southern Vietnam. Similar to Banh Chung, Banh Tet is made from glutinous rice, mung beans, and pork, but it is shaped into a cylindrical roll and wrapped in banana leaves before being boiled. The cooking process, which takes several hours, results in a flavorful and hearty cake that is sliced into rounds for serving. The banana leaves impart a unique aroma that enhances the overall taste, making Banh Tet a cherished dish during the Lunar New Year.Black Cylindrical Sticky Rice Cake - Banh TetBanh In (Print cake)Banh In, or print cake, is a sweet treat commonly enjoyed during Tet in central Vietnam. These small, decorative cakes are made from rice flour and sugar and are often imprinted with intricate designs. They come in various flavors, including mung bean and coconut. Banh In has a dense and slightly chewy texture, with a delicate sweetness that pairs well with tea. The detailed prints on each cake not only make them visually appealing but also represent good luck and prosperity for the new year. Tourists can buy this cake as a souvenir to bring home in Vietnam in New Year Holiday tour.Nem Chua (Fermented pork roll)Nem Chua is a popular food in Central Vietnam, particularly as a specialty in Thanh Hoa. Made from minced pork, pork skin, garlic, and chili, Nem Chua is seasoned and then wrapped in banana leaves to ferment for several days. The fermentation process gives the pork a unique sour taste and a chewy texture. Each bite of Nem Chua is a burst of tangy, savory, and slightly spicy flavors, making it a delicious and refreshing snack. It is often enjoyed with fresh herbs and chili sauce, adding to the complexity of flavors.Tom Chua (Sour shrimp)Tom Chua is a specialty of central Vietnam originating from Hue. This dish is made by fermenting fresh shrimp with a mixture of rice, galangal, garlic, and chili. The fermentation process results in a tangy and slightly spicy flavor, with the shrimp retaining a firm and juicy texture. Tom Chua is typically served with fresh herbs and rice paper, allowing diners to create their own flavorful rolls. The combination of sour, spicy, and savory flavors makes Tom Chua a standout dish during the Lunar New Year festivities.Bo Kho Mat Mia (Braised beef with molasses)Bo Kho Mat Mia (Braised Beef With Molasses)Bo Kho Mat Mia is a rich and flavorful dish from Nghe An, central Vietnam. This dish features beef braised with molasses, fish sauce, and various aromatic spices until the meat is tender and infused with a deep, sweet-savory flavor. The molasses add a caramelized sweetness that balances the robust taste of the beef, while the spices contribute to a complex and aromatic profile. The slow-cooking process ensures that the flavors meld beautifully, resulting in a dish that is both hearty and indulgent. Bo Kho Mat Mia is often served with rice or noodles, making it a comforting and satisfying meal during the festive season.1.3. Southern Vietnam New Year FoodThit Kho Hot Vit (Caramelized pork and eggs)Thit Kho Hot Vit is a beloved dish during Tet in southern Vietnam, featuring succulent pieces of pork belly braised with duck eggs in a rich, caramelized sauce made from coconut water, fish sauce, and sugar. The slow-cooking process allows the pork to become incredibly tender, while the duck eggs absorb the savory-sweet flavors of the sauce. It is supposed that the round eggs and square pieces of meat are symbols of balanced yin and yang. Thit Kho Hot Vit is typically served with rice, making it a comforting and satisfying meal that symbolizes prosperity and warmth in Tet. Don’t miss the chance to try this food during your Best of Vietnam for New Year!Canh Kho Qua (Stuffed bitter melon soup)Canh Kho Qua, or stuffed bitter melon soup, is a traditional dish in southern Vietnam that is often enjoyed during Tet. The dish features bitter melon stuffed with a mixture of minced pork, mushrooms, and glass noodles, all seasoned with fish sauce and pepper. The bitterness of the melon is believed to symbolize the hardships of the past year, which are washed away with each bite. The soup is both refreshing and nourishing, with a unique combination of bitter and savory flavors that are said to bring good health and fortune.Canh Mang (Bamboo shoot soup)Canh Mang (Bamboo Shoot Soup)Canh Mang is made from dried bamboo shoots, pork ribs, and various aromatic herbs. The dried bamboo shoots are rehydrated and simmered with the pork ribs to create a rich and savory broth. The bamboo shoots add a distinct earthy flavor and a slightly crunchy texture to the soup. Canh Mang is often enjoyed as part of the Tet feast, symbolizing growth and resilience. Its hearty and warming qualities make it a perfect dish to share with family and friends during the festive season.Lap Xuong (Chinese sausage)Lap Xuong, or Chinese sausage, is a popular ingredient in southern Vietnamese cuisine, especially during Tet. These sweet and savory sausages are made from ground pork and fat, seasoned with sugar, soy sauce, and rice wine, then air-dried or smoked. This flavorful and slightly chewy sausage is often sliced and stir-fried with vegetables or used as a topping for sticky rice. The sweet and smoky flavor of Lap Xuong adds a delightful contrast to the savory dishes typically served during Tet.3. Table manners in Lunar New Year VietnamTry to savor a Tet meal in VietnamTet is a time of deep tradition and cultural significance in Vietnam, and the meals shared during this period are much more formal and elaborate than everyday meals. Here are some essential table manners to keep in mind if you dine with locals or wish to experience an authentic Tet meal:- Do not start eating until the incense on the ancestor’s altar has finished burning.- Always invite the elders to eat first as a sign of respect.- Do not clatter your chopsticks or bowl, as it is considered rude.- Finish all the rice you have taken, it is considered wasteful and disrespectful to leave rice in your bowl.- Wait for the host to indicate where you should sit if you are a guest. The seating arrangement may be based on age or status.New Year in Vietnam is an incredible opportunity to explore the unique and mouthwatering cuisine that is exclusive to this festive holiday. You don't want to miss out on the chance to savor all these amazing dishes and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of traditional Vietnamese food during the New Year celebration.If you're planning a trip to Vietnam during the New Year holiday and need help with booking tours, look no further! Incredible Asia Journeys is here to make your adventure unforgettable.