In the bustling atmosphere of New Year in Vietnam, surely everyone wants to find a wonderful place to celebrate New Year’s Eve and welcome the new year. Have you ever imagined enjoying the vibrant atmosphere along with unique experiences from festivals, fun, and great flavors in the first days of the year? Join Karst Plateau to discover the best place to celebrate New Year in Vietnam, from bustling street corners in Hanoi to beautiful beaches in Nha Trang and Da Nang!
1. What is New Year?
Lunar New Year, also known as Tet, is the largest traditional festival in Vietnam
Lunar New Year also known as Tet is the biggest festival of the year for Vietnamese people, taking place at the beginning of the new year according to the lunar calendar and it will take place on the 29th day of the 1st Gregorian Calendar. This is not only a time to rest, but also an opportunity for children and grandchildren to express gratitude to their ancestors and wish for a happy and prosperous new year. On Tet days, a truly joyful and meaningful atmosphere will prevail not only in families but also in every corner of the country.
Normally, Tet will take place within 7 days, but Vietnamese people often prepare 1 month in advance. During this time, people will clean the house together, shop and decorate for Tet, and prepare traditional dishes.
This is considered a time for people to return to their homeland and spend time with their families. The image of people reuniting around a traditional tray of rice, enjoying typical dishes together, will leave unforgettable memories in everyone’s heart. It is a peaceful time for us to temporarily put aside our busy work and immerse ourselves in the festive atmosphere.
2. Things to expect in the new year
Traditional dishes and drinks for New Year
During Tet, Vietnamese cuisine becomes an indispensable highlight. The dishes are not only delicious but also symbolize luck and prosperity in the new year. Some typical dishes that we can enjoy include:
- Banh Chung: A dish symbolizing heaven and earth, made from sticky rice, green beans, and pork and wrapped in green dong leaves.
- Braised meat with eggs: A dish often found in Southern feasts, with a sweet and rich taste.
- Fried spring rolls: This dish is indispensable during Tet, as it has a crisp exterior and rich filling inside.
In addition, drinks are also very diverse and rich, from tea, and wine to jam, each type of drink brings a different feeling to the party.
The market is crowded before the New Year
Before New Year, the atmosphere at Tet markets becomes more jubilant and bustling than ever. Here, people not only buy necessary items but also participate in meaningful shopping activities. In particular, markets are usually only held during the last days of the year, which is why the atmosphere becomes more bustling and lively than ever.
One of the most special markets is the Ben Thanh market in the city. Ho Chi Minh, where you can find everything from food, and clothes to Tet decorations. Not only that, what you should not miss when visiting the Tet market is enjoying delicious dishes, from banh chung, and banh tet to regional specialty fruits.
3. The best place to celebrate New Year in Vietnam
It’s time to discover the best place to celebrate new year in Vietnam. With diverse Tet customs and activities, we will learn together about these places and what special things each place brings to New Year lovers.
Hanoi
The capital Hanoi with its traditional atmosphere is the Best Place to Celebrate New Year in Vietnam for those who love antiquity
The capital Hanoi, with its poetic beauty, is definitely one of the best destinations to celebrate New Year in Vietnam. On New Year’s Eve, the atmosphere at Hoan Kiem Lake and the surrounding walking streets become more bustling than ever. People often gather here to participate in countdown activities to welcome the new year with colorful art performances. The food stalls are also beautifully decorated, giving diners the opportunity to experience typical regional dishes.
In addition, pagodas such as Tran Quoc Pagoda also attract many tourists and people to pray for peace and luck for the new year. The unique point is not only to pray for peace but also to enjoy the beauty of ancient architecture, blending in the quiet space of Hanoi.
Ho Chi Minh City
If Hanoi brings tourists peaceful moments, then Ho Chi Minh City is a place of excitement and bustle. New Year’s Eve witnessed a strong transformation of the city. On every major street in District 1, the festive atmosphere shines with sparkling lights, fireworks displays, and unique cultural events.
Areas such as Nguyen Hue Walking Street are the Best Place to Celebrate New Year in Vietnam for tourists. Nguyen Hue Walking Street has become one of the prominent hot spots, where young people gather to welcome the new year. Not only music and laughter but also the combination of cultural spaces and street art, create a memorable experience for everyone.
Hoi An
The vibrant lanterns and ancient streets offer a unique experience
Hoi An, with its peaceful and ancient beauty, is a destination not to be missed during Tet. Here, visitors will experience a special traditional festival atmosphere, with activities such as releasing lanterns on the Hoai River. Hoi An ancient town shimmers under colored lights, blending with the crowds of people and tourists walking, creating a picturesque scene. The food stalls here are also very rich and diverse, with traditional dishes that captivate visitors.
Covered Bridge, a symbol of Hoi An, also organizes many cultural activities during the New Year, along with special Tet markets. Therefore, Hoi An will be the right place for those looking for the Best Place to Celebrate New Year in Vietnam in a romantic atmosphere. The vibrant lanterns and ancient streets offer a unique experience.
Ha Long Bay
With beautiful natural scenery and fresh air, Ha Long Bay offers visitors unique experiences, especially during major holidays. Many cruise tours organize special parties on New Year’s Eve, giving visitors the perfect combination of beautiful sea views and meaningful exchange activities. Seeing the majestic limestone hills and the taste of fresh shrimp and seafood will leave you with wonderful memories.
Not only that, visiting caves like Sung Sot Cave or swimming at pristine beaches are also indispensable experiences to enjoy the New Year’s atmosphere. This may be the Best Place to Celebrate New Year in Vietnam for those who love natural beauty. Welcoming the New Year on a cruise here is an unforgettable experience.
Sapa
Sapa, with the majestic beauty of the Northwest mountains and forests, is a perfect destination for those who love exploration. In the new year, Sapa not only attracts tourists with its pristine natural beauty but also with interesting cultural activities.
Traditional festivals taking place at this time give visitors the opportunity to understand more about the culture of ethnic minorities here. Visiting love markets on New Year’s Eve is also a unique and interesting activity for those who love learning about local culture.
Ha Giang Loop
Ha Giang is the Best Place to Celebrate New Year in Vietnam if you want to explore the wild beauty and unique culture of ethnic minorities
Ha Giang, home to beautiful natural scenery with high mountains, is a destination not to be missed during the New Year. At this time, plum and peach blossoms bloom, creating a brilliant and colorful picture.
Traditional festivals taking place at Dong Van Market and Meo Vac Love Market are great opportunities for visitors to experience the unique culture of ethnic minorities here. Besides enjoying special cuisine such as Banh Cuon, visitors can also immerse themselves in the bustling atmosphere of dances and folk songs. The Ha Giang will be the Best Place to Celebrate New Year in Vietnam if you want to explore the wild beauty and unique culture of ethnic minorities. The winding roads and highland markets are unforgettable highlights.
Nha Trang beach
Nha Trang, with its clear blue air and beautiful beaches, deserves to be the best place to celebrate New Year in Vietnam. With clear water and smooth sand, this place is not only a resort paradise but also a place to organize New Year’s celebrations. Nha Trang Beach will host many art shows and fireworks displays, creating brilliant images in the night sky. Vinpearl Land is also an attractive choice with unique music shows and festivals that cannot be missed, creating a fun space for families and everyone.
Da Nang
Da Nang is not only famous for its beautiful scenery but also an ideal destination during Tet, where rich cultural activities take place all year round. My Khe Beach is definitely the ideal place for tourists to welcome the New Year with exciting festive activities. Dragon Bridge with unique and modern performance programs, giving visitors memorable experiences. The Han River Bridge area is an ideal place to relax and admire the beauty of the city at night.
Choosing the best place to celebrate New Year in Vietnam will depend on each person’s preferences. If you love excitement, come to the city. Ho Chi Minh. If you want to find peace, visit Hoi An or Sapa. No matter where you choose, the most important thing is to enjoy unique experiences. Start planning your Tet holiday with Karst Plateau to fully enjoy the joy of welcoming the new year!