Are Most Shops And Services Closed During Tet In Vietnam?

Are most shops and services closed during Tet in Vietnam? Yes, during Tet, the Vietnamese Lunar New Year, many shops and services close, but with SIXT.VN, you can navigate this festive period smoothly. We provide reliable airport transfers, comfortable hotel bookings, and unique tour experiences. Discover how to make the most of your Tet holiday with our tips on transportation, dining, and cultural immersion. Experience a hassle-free Tet with tailored travel advice.

1. Understanding Tet: The Vietnamese Lunar New Year

Tet Nguyen Dan, commonly known as Tet or the Vietnamese Lunar New Year, stands as Vietnam’s most significant and celebrated holiday. It marks the commencement of the lunar calendar, symbolizing renewal, introspection, and jubilant celebration. According to the Vietnam National Authority of Tourism, Tet is a time for families to reunite, honor ancestors, and welcome new beginnings. This occasion generally spans a week, encompassing pre-festival preparations, the main holiday period, and a gradual return to normalcy.

Vietnamese Lunar New Year

2. Navigating Vietnam During Tet Holiday

2.1. Tet Holiday Schedule Explained

The official Tet holiday typically spans 7 to 9 days, commencing on the 29th day of the lunar calendar (New Year’s Eve) and extending through the initial days of the new year. Students often enjoy extended breaks, allowing them to journey home and celebrate with family ahead of the official public holiday. Adults typically receive around 5 days off, although some businesses, particularly in larger cities, may resume operations sooner. The Ministry of Labor, Invalids and Social Affairs usually announces the official holiday schedule in advance.

2.2. Important Dates For Tet (2025-2026)

Understanding the key dates of Tet can help you plan your trip effectively.

2.3. Pre-Tet Preparations: A Cultural Insight

2.3.1. Cleaning And Decoration

Prior to Tet, Vietnamese families meticulously clean their homes to symbolize a fresh start and eliminate any lingering misfortunes from the past year. According to cultural experts, this act extends to the family altar, demonstrating profound respect for ancestors. Homes and streets are adorned with colorful banners, red lanterns, and vibrant flowers like peach blossoms and kumquat trees, creating a festive ambiance.

2.3.2. Non-Stop Shopping Spree

Markets become vibrant hubs filled with families procuring traditional foods, treats, and holiday decorations. The air buzzes with excitement as shoppers gather essentials and vendors enthusiastically offer traditional items that define Tet. Staples such as rice, seasonal treats, dried fruits, and candies are highly sought after. Flower markets also play a vital role, offering various blooms like peach blossoms and apricot flowers.

2.3.3. Honoring “Ong Cong, Ong Tao” (Kitchen Gods)

A distinctive Tet tradition involves the ritual of bidding farewell to the Kitchen Gods and Land Genie. Vietnamese families conduct a small altar ceremony with offerings such as sticky rice, fruits, and goldfish to express gratitude for their protection throughout the year. This tradition, typically observed a week before Tet, sees the Kitchen Gods journey to heaven to report on the family’s activities.

2.3.4. Wrapping “Banh Chung, Banh Tet” (Sticky Rice Cakes)

A cherished pre-Tet tradition is the preparation of “banh chung,” a square sticky rice cake, and “banh tet“, a cylindrical sticky rice cake. Families gather to wrap the cakes, fostering unity and warmth. These cakes symbolize the earth and moon respectively, and are essential elements of Tet celebrations. While homemade cakes are traditional, high-quality alternatives are readily available at local markets.

Square sticky rice cake

2.3.5. Settling Debts Before Tet

Many Vietnamese families prioritize settling debts before Tet to ensure a prosperous and debt-free new year. By clearing financial obligations, individuals aim to commence the year with a “clean slate,” free from past burdens. This tradition underscores the importance of commencing the new year on a positive financial footing.

2.4. Typical Activities During Tet

2.4.1. Fireworks At Midnight

Spectacular fireworks displays light up the skies in major cities, drawing crowds eager to welcome the new year. These events, often accompanied by countdown celebrations, foster a festive atmosphere as people collectively usher in the Lunar New Year. Popular viewing locations include parks, riversides, and high-rise buildings, offering stunning panoramas of the pyrotechnic displays.

2.4.2. Exchanging New Year’s Greetings

During the initial days of Tet, families and friends exchange New Year’s greetings, conveying wishes for health, prosperity, and happiness in the coming year.

The tradition of exchanging Tet greetings is deeply rooted in Vietnamese culture, with the first two days reserved for family and relatives, followed by visits to friends and colleagues.

2.4.3. Tet Meals and Special Dishes

Food plays a central role in Tet celebrations, uniting families around special meals. The festivities commence with a “tat nien” (end-of-year meal), followed by “mam com giao thua” (New Year’s Eve meal) and “hoa vang” (ancestor offering meal) on the 3rd day. Traditional dishes include “banh chung,” “banh tet,” “dua hanh” (pickled onions), and various meats, symbolizing abundance and prosperity for the upcoming year.

Special dishes in Vietnamese Lunar New Year

2.5. Customs Believed to Bring Good Luck

2.5.1. Buying New Clothes

Purchasing new clothes, particularly in red and yellow hues, is a popular custom believed to attract good fortune in the coming year. Gifting new clothes to children and family members is also common, underscoring the belief that wearing bright, new attire will usher in prosperity and luck.

2.5.2. The First Visitor Tradition “Xong Dat”

“Xong dat,” or welcoming the first visitor of the new year, is a significant tradition. It is believed that the first person to enter a home after midnight will influence the family’s fortune for the year, depending on their compatibility with the homeowner. Often, a family member or close friend known for their good luck is chosen to perform this ritual, setting a positive tone for the year ahead.

2.5.3. Lucky Money “Li Xi”

“Li xi,” the act of giving lucky money in red envelopes, is a cherished tradition. Elders present these envelopes to younger family members and children, wishing them luck, health, and success in the new year. The red color symbolizes good fortune and protection against bad luck, bringing joy to both givers and receivers.

2.5.4. The First Temple Visit of the Year

Visiting temples and pagodas to light incense, offer prayers, and seek blessings for health, wealth, and happiness is an integral part of Tet celebrations. Many also seek meaningful calligraphy or couplets to adorn their homes, symbolizing aspirations for success. The serene ambiance of these sacred spaces adds to the spiritual significance of the occasion.

Vietnamese customs for the Lunar New Year

2.6. Key Differences Between North and South Vietnam During Tet

Regional variations add unique flavors to Tet celebrations.

3. Top 7 Travel Tips for Navigating Vietnam During Tet

3.1. Transportation Tips

Transportation during Tet can be challenging due to increased travel by locals returning home. Booking flights, buses, and trains in advance is crucial. Airports and stations tend to be crowded before and after Tet. Consider booking transportation 2-3 months in advance to secure your tickets. If you need airport transfer, SIXT.VN offers reliable and convenient airport transfer services.

3.2. Hotel Booking Strategies

Hotels in major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City experience high demand during Tet. Booking accommodations early is recommended, ideally 2-4 months in advance. Prices tend to rise during this period, so early booking ensures better availability and rates. SIXT.VN provides a variety of hotel options to suit different budgets and preferences.

3.3. Managing Price Increases

During Tet, the demand for goods and services rises, leading to price increases. Restaurants, taxis, and other services may apply surcharges. It’s advisable to ask for prices beforehand to avoid surprises. Budgeting for these increases is essential to manage travel expenses effectively.

The overpriced situation in Vietnam during Tet

3.4. Dining Options

Most local restaurants and cafes close during Tet, but larger chain stores and cafes often remain open, especially on the main day of the holiday. While the variety of options may be limited, and the quality of food and service might not meet the usual standard, you can still find dining options in major cities. Some hotels also offer meals during Tet, providing a convenient dining alternative.

3.5. Exploring Tourist Attractions

Many historical sites, museums, and tourist attractions close during Tet, particularly on the first day. However, some temples and pagodas remain open for locals to offer prayers. Local markets near these sites also stay open, offering a glimpse into local culture and traditions. Verify opening hours in advance, as schedules may vary.

3.6. Entertainment and Shopping

Most shopping malls close for at least the first day of Tet, with some larger malls opening on the second and third days. Cinemas typically operate throughout the holiday, screening Vietnamese films. Check schedules online before heading to the cinema, as not all locations may be open.

3.7. Embracing Tet Atmosphere

Immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture by visiting flower markets, strolling through bustling streets, and exploring attractions in Hanoi. During the first few days of the new year, enjoy the peacefulness of the city and visit temples or pagodas. Embrace the moment and appreciate the unique Vietnamese traditions.

4. Frequently Asked Questions About Traveling to Vietnam During Tet

4.1. What Is the Worst Time to Travel to Vietnam During Tet?

The worst time to travel is typically 2 days before Tet and 2-3 days after the first day of Tet. The period leading up to Tet is marked by crowded streets and fully booked transportation, while the days following Tet see many businesses closed, limiting options for travelers.

What is the worst time to visit Vietnam during Tet

4.2. Is Tet a Good Time to Travel to Vietnam?

Tet can be a great time for a deeper cultural experience if you have visited Vietnam before or have local connections. However, if it’s your first visit, the closures, higher prices, and limited activities may pose challenges. Planning and consulting our guide can help you navigate these challenges.

4.3. What Is the Weather Like in Vietnam During Tet?

Weather varies by region. Northern Vietnam experiences cool weather (15-20°C), Central Vietnam has moderate temperatures (20-25°C), and Southern Vietnam enjoys warmer weather (25-30°C).

Packing Tips:

• Northern Vietnam: Layers, warm jacket, scarf, and hat.
• Central and Southern Vietnam: Light clothing, comfortable shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses, and hat.
• Rain Gear: Umbrella or light rain jacket.

4.4. When Should I Book My Trip to Vietnam for Tet?

Booking at least 3 to 4 months in advance is recommended, especially for flights and hotels. Tour operators like SIXT.VN can provide the most up-to-date information and valuable insights to enhance your trip.

5. Conclusion: Making the Most of Tet in Vietnam

Traveling to Vietnam during Tet offers a unique glimpse into Vietnamese culture and traditions. While closures and transportation issues may present challenges, careful planning and engagement with local customs can ensure a memorable experience. SIXT.VN provides reliable services and expert advice to help you navigate Tet smoothly.

Contact SIXT.VN today to book your airport transfer, hotel, or tour and experience the best of Vietnam during Tet!

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Hotline/Whatsapp: +84 986 244 358
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