Vietnam Public Holidays: Plan your trip around vibrant festivals, cultural celebrations, and local traditions. Learn when to visit and how to navigate holiday travel impacts.
Planning a trip to Vietnam? You might want to check the holiday calendar first. Vietnam public holidays aren’t just about time off—they’re deeply rooted in culture, history, and tradition. While some bring vibrant street festivals and firework displays, others can shut down entire cities, making travel tricky.
This guide from Asia Legend Travel breaks down everything you need to know about the major Vietnamese public holidays, from when to visit for the best celebrations to what to expect in terms of crowds, closures, and unique local experiences. Whether you want to dive into the heart of Tết (Vietnamese Lunar New Year) or simply avoid travel headaches, this article has you covered.
Understanding Vietnam Public Holidays
Vietnam follows a mix of Gregorian and lunar calendars, meaning some holidays change dates every year. When it comes to how many public holidays in Vietnam, there are 5 official public holidays where businesses close and everyone gets time off. However, many more cultural celebrations fill the calendar.
A few things to keep in mind in terms of Vietnam public holidays:
- Tết (Lunar New Year) is by far the biggest holiday. The country slows to a halt as families reunite, and businesses shut down for up to a week.
- If a public holiday falls on a weekend, the following Monday is often a day off.
- Some holidays are national, while others (like the Mid-Autumn Festival) are more family-focused.
So, should you visit Vietnam during their public holidays? The answer depends on what kind of traveler you are. If you enjoy immersing yourself in local culture, then absolutely! If you prefer quiet streets and easy travel, you might want to schedule your trip for non-holiday periods.
Major Public Holidays in Vietnam
Now, let Asia Legend Travel guide you through Vietnam national public holidays and what makes each celebration unique.
New Year’s Day (January 1)
While Tết celebrations steal the spotlight as the biggest one among Vietnam public holidays, the Western New Year still brings its own magic to the streets. As the clock approaches midnight on December 31st, cities across the country burst into life with parties, fireworks, and countdown events as people come together to welcome the new year.
Best Places to Ring in the New Year
- Hanoi: Join the electric atmosphere at Hoan Kiem Lake, where thousands gather for the countdown. After midnight, continue the festivities at the buzzing Beer Street, where both locals and travelers toast to new beginnings.
- Ho Chi Minh City: Grab a prime spot along the Saigon River to witness a spectacular fireworks show that lights up the city’s modern skyline. The energy here is absolutely contagious!
- Da Nang: Head to the iconic Dragon Bridge Da Nang for the city’s most impressive fireworks display, then hit the beachfront for all-night celebrations.
A Traveler’s Tale: “I found myself among thousands at Hoan Kiem Lake for the countdown, and the atmosphere was electric—until I lost my friends in the crowd and had zero phone signal! But watching the fireworks illuminate Hanoi’s skyline turned out to be an unforgettable way to start the year.” – Mark, 29, from Scotland
Tet Vietnamese New Year (Tết Nguyên Đán) – Late January or February
Occurring in late January or February, Tet Vietnamese New Year is Vietnam’s most significant holiday, with celebrations lasting several weeks. Think of it as a blend of Christmas, Thanksgiving, and New Year’s all rolled into one!
During this time, families come together for elaborate feasts and ancestor worship. The streets pulse with energy as traditional drums beat, music plays, and colorful lion dances weave through crowds. One of the most cherished traditions is the exchange of greetings and red envelopes containing lucky money, which adults give to children.
Best Places to Enjoy the Holiday
- Hanoi: Experience the capital’s magical atmosphere before, during, or after Tết. The city transforms with decorations, traditional markets, and festive energy that you won’t find anywhere else.
- Hoi An: Step back in time in this ancient city, where lantern-lit streets and cultural performances create an enchanting atmosphere that feels unchanged since the 16th century.
- Ho Chi Minh City: Beyond the spectacular fireworks, don’t miss the vibrant flower street displays, especially at Bến Bình Đông, where boats laden with chrysanthemums, ochna flowers, marigolds, and kumquat trees create a stunning visual feast.
- Temples and Pagodas: During Tết, locals flock to spiritual sites across Vietnam to pray for good fortune in the coming year. Join them in this meaningful tradition, and you’ll witness firsthand the deep spiritual connection that makes this holiday so special.
Traveler’s Story: “A Vietnamese family invited me to their home for Tết, where I shared meals, received lucky money, and even tried making bánh chưng. It was heartwarming to be welcomed like family, even though I butchered the pronunciation of every greeting!” – Anna, 34, US Travel Blogger
Hung King Festival (Giỗ Tổ Hùng Vương) – 10th day of the 3rd Lunar Month (April)
Among Vietnamese public holidays, Hung King Festival stands as one of the country’s most significant cultural celebrations, where Vietnamese people gather to honor their legendary founders. During this time, thousands make pilgrimages to the main temple in Phu Tho province, where they participate in traditional incense offerings and festive activities, including competitions to make traditional bánh chưng and bánh giầy rice cakes.
Best Places to Experience the Festival
- Hung Temple, Phu Tho Province: Head to the spiritual heart of Vietnam, where the most impressive ceremonies honor the Hung Kings against a stunning historical backdrop.
- Regional Hung Temples: Visit one of the many Hung King temples throughout Vietnam, where you can witness traditional performances and government-sponsored events. Each region adds its own cultural flair to the celebrations, offering visitors a rich tapestry of Vietnamese traditions.
Traveler’s Story: “Hiking up to the Hung Temple was exhausting, but the sight of thousands of locals paying their respects to Vietnam’s legendary kings gave me chills. It was a humbling experience to witness such deep national pride in action.” – Tom, 42, Canadian History Professor
Vietnamese Reunification Day (April 30) & International Labor Day (May 1)
Mark your calendars for Vietnamese Reunification Day (April 30) and International Labor Day (May 1) – two of the biggest Vietnam national public holidays! These back-to-back holidays create a long weekend that commemorates both the country’s 1975 reunification and honors its hardworking people. Just keep in mind that with locals enjoying their extended break, tourist hotspots can get pretty busy during this period.
Where to Enjoy the Holiday
- Hanoi: Get swept up in the energy of military parades and dive into fascinating historical exhibits that bring Vietnam’s past to life.
- Ho Chi Minh City: Grab a spot along the Saigon River for an absolutely stunning fireworks show that’ll take your breath away.
- Da Nang & Nha Trang: Hit the beaches for the perfect blend of relaxation and celebration – the festive atmosphere is infectious!
A Traveler’s Take: “Visiting the War Remnants Museum on Reunification Day was incredibly moving – watching veterans and families pay their respects brought history to life. The evening fireworks over Ho Chi Minh City were amazing, though navigating the packed streets was quite a challenge!” – Lisa, 27, Australian Journalist
Vietnam Independence Day – September 2
September 2nd marks Vietnam Independence Day, commemorating the country’s liberation from French rule in 1945. The atmosphere is electric as cities across the nation burst into life with spectacular fireworks displays, colorful parades, and patriotic celebrations that showcase Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage and national pride.
Best Places to Experience the Magic
- Ba Dinh Square, Hanoi: Join thousands at the historic spot where President Ho Chi Minh declared independence. Watch grand military parades and flag ceremonies against the backdrop of the iconic mausoleum.
- Ho Chi Minh City: Prepare to be dazzled by a breathtaking fireworks display that illuminates the Saigon skyline, creating perfect photo opportunities and unforgettable memories.
- Sapa & Ha Giang: Experience a unique perspective of National Day celebrations among ethnic minority communities in Vietnam’s northern mountains.
A Traveler’s Perspective: “I stumbled upon a massive parade in Hanoi’s Ba Dinh Square and got caught up in the patriotic chants, waving a tiny Vietnamese flag a vendor handed me. Even as an outsider, I could feel the overwhelming pride and energy of the locals.” – David, 38, German Photographer
Other Notable Observances
Beyond the major Vietnam public holidays, the country’s cultural calendar is packed with fascinating festivals throughout the year. Let’s explore some of these vibrant celebrations:
Mid-Autumn Festival (Tết Trung Thu) – September/October
The Mid-Autumn Festival is one of Vietnam’s most enchanting celebrations, bringing families together for a magical evening of lights and laughter. As night falls, the streets come alive with the rhythmic beats of drums, playful lion dances, and the joyful sounds of children celebrating this special occasion.
Best Places to Enjoy the Holiday
- Hoi An: Lose yourself in a mesmerizing sea of colorful lanterns as you stroll through the ancient streets, then join locals in the beautiful tradition of releasing glowing flower lanterns onto the Thu Bon River.
- Hanoi Old Quarter: Dive into the festival spirit along the bustling streets, where traditional performances unfold around every corner and the famous Hang Ma Street dazzles with festive decorations.
- Saigon’s Chinatown (Chợ Lớn): Experience some of Vietnam’s most spectacular lion dance performances in this vibrant district of Ho Chi Minh City.
Traveler’s Story: “Walking through Hoi An’s lantern-lit streets during the festival felt like stepping into a dream, and kids happily gave me a slice of their mooncakes. The only downside? I had to dodge an overenthusiastic lion dancer who almost knocked me over!” – Emily, 31, traver from France
Mid-Year Festival (Tết Đoan Ngọ) – 5th day of the 5th Lunar Month (June)
Among Vietnam’s holidays, Mid-Year Festival is a lesser-known one focused on spiritual cleansing and health rituals. Locals mark the occasion by enjoying special dishes like fermented sticky rice and seasonal fruits, believed to cleanse both body and spirit of negative energy.
Best Places to Experience the Magic
- Countryside villages: While city folks keep it low-key, rural areas are where the real action happens. You’ll catch locals practicing age-old traditions like flying kites or hitting trees. For something truly special, head to the mountains where ethnic minorities like the Tay people add their own unique twist – including the beautiful custom of ceremonial fingernail dyeing.
- Local markets: These are absolute treasure troves during the festival! You’ll find seasonal delicacies that only appear once a year – perfect for adventurous foodies.
Traveler’s Story: “I tried fermented sticky rice for the first time, and the taste was surprisingly sweet and strong—like alcohol and dessert combined! A friendly local explained the tradition, and I left feeling like I had experienced a secret side of Vietnam most tourists miss.” – Jake, 25, American Backpacker
Christmas – December 25
While Christmas in Vietnam isn’t officially a public holiday, it’s become quite a celebration in major cities! With around 8% of the population being Christian, the holiday spirit has caught on even among young people from all backgrounds. And though you won’t find any snow-covered streets (well, maybe up in the mountains!), you’ll discover something even better – a magical fusion of Vietnamese traditions and Western holiday cheer that creates an unforgettable Christmas experience.
Best Places to Experience the Christmas Magic
- Churches: Whether you’re religious or not, visiting a Vietnamese church during Christmas is an exciting time. You’ll witness beautiful decorations and experience how local communities celebrate this special occasion.
- Shopping Centres: Get ready for dazzling holiday displays and amazing seasonal sales! The malls transform into winter wonderlands, complete with towering Christmas trees, twinkling lights, and fantastic bargains that’ll make your holiday shopping a breeze.
Beyond these major celebrations, Vietnam’s calendar is packed with fascinating celebrations year-round. Here’s a quick peek at some other noteworthy events:
- International Women’s Day (March 8): The streets burst with color as flowers and gifts exchange hands in this heartfelt celebration of women.
- Teacher’s Day (November 20): A uniquely Vietnamese tradition where students show appreciation for their educators. This time, schools are buzzing with activity!
- Buddhist Holidays (Vesak, Ghost Festival, etc.): These spiritual celebrations transform temples into magical spaces filled with incense, chanting, and traditional ceremonies.
No matter which Vietnam public holidays you catch, each one offers a unique window into Vietnamese culture that you just can’t experience from reading a guidebook alone.
How Public Holidays Impact Travel in Vietnam
Vietnam public holidays can be a double-edged sword for travelers. While you’ll get to experience amazing cultural festivities, you’ll need to plan carefully to avoid travel headaches. Here’s what to watch out for:
Busy Travel Periods
Vietnamese people love to travel domestically during public holidays, especially during Tết (Lunar New Year), Reunification Day, and National Day. This means:
- Flights, trains, and buses sell out quickly—sometimes weeks in advance.
- Prices for hotels and flights skyrocket.
- Popular tourist attractions can be packed.
If you plan to travel during a public holiday, book your transport and accommodation as early as possible to avoid disappointment.
Closures & Limited Services
During Tết especially, many places shut down completely. Restaurants, shops, and even some tourist attractions may close or operate on limited hours. That said, larger cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City still have some services running.
Festivals & Crowds
Major Vietnam public holidays like National Day (September 2) and Reunification Day (April 30) bring massive street parades and fireworks, particularly in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. It’s an amazing experience but also means huge crowds and possible road closures.
Cultural Experiences
Here’s where it gets good – public holidays offer some of the best opportunities to see Vietnam’s culture up close. From watching dragon dances during Tết to sharing mooncakes at the Mid-Autumn Festival, these authentic cultural moments often become trip highlights.
Bottom line? If you plan well, Vietnam public holidays can be an unforgettable experience. If you don’t, they can be a logistical nightmare.
Essential Travel Tips for Public Holidays
To make the most of your trip during Vietnam public holidays, follow these key tips:
Book Everything in Advance
- Flights, trains, and hotels fill up fast, especially during Tết, Reunification Day, and National Day.
- If you’re traveling during these times, book at least a month in advance to secure good prices and availability.
Plan for Closures
- During Tết (Lunar New Year), many businesses shut down for up to a week. Even large cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City become unusually quiet for a few days.
- On the flip side, big attractions like Halong Bay and Phu Quoc tend to stay open and are popular getaways for locals.
Get Involved in the Festivities!
- Public holidays are the best time to experience Vietnamese culture firsthand.
- Get out there and join the street parties, catch the fireworks shows, sample holiday treats, and chat with locals – you’ll create unforgettable memories.
Be Mindful of Crowds & Safety
- Avoid large gatherings if you’re uncomfortable with crowds, especially during fireworks displays and parades.
- Keep an eye on your belongings—like in any busy public space, pickpockets operate in crowded holiday areas.
Vietnam public holidays are more than just days off—they’re a window into the country’s soul. Whether you’re watching fireworks over Hoan Kiem Lake, wandering through a lantern-lit Hoi An, or enjoying mooncakes during the Mid-Autumn Festival, these holidays add a magical layer to any trip.
However, traveling during Vietnamese public holidays also require extra planning—especially if you’re traveling on a budget or prefer quieter, off-the-beaten-path experiences. By understanding when and how these holidays impact daily life, you can plan your journey wisely and make the most of your adventure.
So, will you embrace the festivities or steer clear of the crowds? Whatever your choice, one thing’s for sure: Vietnam national public holidays will leave a lasting impression on any traveler.
