What to Expect
Tet often falls in early February, transforming the country into a vibrant celebration. Expect flower markets, temple visits, and family gatherings. The North can be misty and cool, adding a mystical touch to Halong Bay.
Festivals & Events (2026)
Tết Nguyên Đán (Lunar New Year)
📍 Nationwide
The most important celebration in Vietnamese culture. Streets are filled with peach blossoms (North) and yellow apricot flowers (South). A time for family reunions; lucky money; and visiting temples.
Lễ hội Gầu Tào
📍 Ha Giang; Lao Cai
The largest spring festival of the H'Mong people; traditionally held to pray for blessings or children. It features Khen dancing; horse racing; and crossbow shooting.
Lễ hội Căm Mường
📍 Lai Châu
A sacred ritual of the Dao people to pray to the spirits of mountains; rivers; and forests for a prosperous year. Features offerings of green and yellow paper boats symbolizing forests and golden rice fields.
Lễ hội Lồng Tồng (Going to the Field)
📍 Tuyen Quang; Bac Kan
An agricultural festival of the Tay ethnic group to pray for good crops. Famous for the 'Con' throwing game where participants throw a cloth ball through a high bamboo ring.
Lễ hội Chùa Hương (Perfume Pagoda Festival)
📍 My Duc; Hanoi
Vietnam's longest festival. Pilgrims travel by boat along the Yen Stream to reach the Huong Tich Cave; praying for luck and prosperity amidst stunning karst landscapes.
Lễ hội Yên Tử
📍 Quang Ninh
Held at the cradle of Truc Lam Zen Buddhism on Yen Tu Mountain. Thousands climb the misty peaks to the Dong Pagoda at the summit to pay homage to King-Monk Tran Nhan Tong.
Lễ hội Cầu Ngư (Whale Festival)
📍 Coastal Central Vietnam (Hue; Da Nang)
Fishermen worship the Whale God (Cá Ông) for safety at sea and a bountiful catch. Features colorful boat processions and traditional rowing songs.