A Local Expert’s Travel Guide to Tet 2027

What Is Tet? When Is Tet 2027 Celebrated?

Tet Nguyen Dan, or Lunar New Year, is the biggest and most meaningful holiday for Vietnamese people.

In 2027, Vietnam's most important holiday will last nine days, from February 3 to February 11, 2027, offering a full week of consecutive public holidays. The actual New Year's Day itself (mung 1) falls on Saturday, February 6, 2027.

Tet follows the lunar calendar, so the date changes every year and usually falls between late January and mid-February.

A Brief History of Tet in Vietnam

In Sino-Vietnamese, the term "Tet" has its roots in '節' (time), meaning the change of seasons from spring to summer, autumn and winter. "Nguyen" indicates the beginning, and "Dan" refers to the first morning. So Tet Nguyen Dan literally means "the first morning of the lunar year."

In the past, Tet marked the beginning of the rice harvest season, when farmers prayed for good weather and an abundant crop. Today, Tet has become a time to reset, leave the past year's troubles behind, and look forward to a more peaceful and fortunate year.

As Tet 2027 approaches, preparations are already underway weeks before the holiday itself. People buy new clothes, get their hair done, cook festive banquets, and purchase new accessories or furniture to decorate their homes.

They also buy delicious cookies and sweets to best prepare the table for incoming guests. Trade thrives in these days, especially in the ornamental plant market, which becomes livelier than ever.

Is Vietnamese Tet the Same as Chinese New Year?

While both Vietnam and China celebrate Lunar New Year, the timing, traditions, food and cultural customs are quite different.
Vietnamese Tet focuses on agricultural roots, family rituals and dishes like banh chung and banh tet, while Chinese New Year includes traditions tied to the legend of Nian, lion dances, and symbolic foods like dumplings and nian gao.

How Do Vietnamese People Prepare for Tet?

Preparations for the 2027 New Year begin on the 23rd day of the twelfth lunar month with the Kitchen Gods Ceremony.

The Kitchen Gods, the Land Idol and the Shopping Goddess rise to Heaven to report to the Jade Emperor on the past year and ask for blessings of good fortune, health and prosperity for the year to come.

They return on New Year's Eve to welcome the family into the new year.

The Banquet and Offerings

Families prepare offerings, including three live or paper carp - a symbol of strength and perseverance - as transport for the gods. The carp are released into ponds or rivers after the ceremony. Paper clothes, hats and boots are also burned, along with silver-shaped votive objects, to honor them.

Traditional dishes are placed on the family altar to honor ancestors and deities, accompanied by prayers for a prosperous New Year.

After the ceremony, joss paper is burned and the carp are released, symbolizing renewal and good fortune.

This is one of the most meaningful parts of Tet, a moment that brings the whole family together, hoping for a peaceful and fortunate new year.

Ornamental Plants and Tet Decorations

Which ornamental plants do Vietnamese people love most? The answer is kumquat trees and peach blossoms. Every home and every office will place at least one beautiful plant in a prominent spot, not only to add visual charm but also to subtly signal that "spring is coming."

All the streets, markets, restaurants and shops are decorated with the vibrant colors of red and yellow, or pink and orange ornaments, coming from the trees strapped to every motorbike as Tet arrives.

However, Vietnamese people never leave their trees plain for Tet. All the homemakers and children are eager to buy ornaments and decorations for the tree.

These might come as hanging New Year's wishes or stickers illustrating the animal representing the year, along with tiny sparkling lights.

Each year is symbolized by an animal in a 12-year cycle, including Rat, Buffalo, Tiger, Cat, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog and Pig.

In 2027, Vietnamese New Year will be marked by the Year of the Goat, an astrological sign associated with gentleness, creativity and harmony.

In Eastern cultures, the Goat symbolizes calmness, artistry and inner balance, representing a time of quiet new beginnings and a year rich in creative inspiration and steady prosperity.

The Tet New Year Celebration

The First Morning of Tet

Tet officially begins when fireworks light up the sky, and adults perform the ancestral offering rituals. On the first morning of Lunar New Year, after wishing their elders well, children receive li xi (red envelopes) with lucky money inside. It's one of the most exciting moments of Tet for them.

Why Do Vietnamese People Give Lucky Money?

The red envelope itself carries the meaning of good luck, protection and wishes for a good year ahead. People often choose even sums or money with "nice" serial numbers, since red symbolizes good fortune and is believed to ward off evil spirits.

Read more: 9 Secrets of Vietnamese Red Envelopes

New clothes are worn, and people fill their kitchens with Chung cake, Tet cake and other delicious foods, then observe various other customs, all symbolizing hope for good things to come with the arriving spring.

The "First-Foot" Guest

The first day of the New Year is considered crucial, as it sets the tone for the months ahead. The first person to enter the house, or the "first guest," is often chosen carefully in advance.

Families choose someone whose zodiac sign is aligned with good fortune for the coming year - generally a kind, cheerful and honest person. This guest, who arrives shortly after midnight, brings small gifts to wish happiness and prosperity upon the family.

If you want to be the "first guest" (xong dat) in a house for Lunar New Year, you can be invited by the host or kindly let them know if your zodiac sign and age are considered favorable for the year.

Here is a simplified table of the God of Wealth Signs (zodiac signs believed to bring prosperity) and Benefactors (zodiac signs that bring support and luck) based on birth years:

These traditions reflect Vietnamese people's deep belief in harmony, luck and renewal as they welcome the Lunar New Year.

Beyond the sacred Tet rituals, Vietnamese people celebrate Tet and enjoy the arrival of spring with many joyful, wholesome festivities, such as wrestling, swing games, boat rides, buffalo fighting and many other folk games.

The Best Places in Vietnam to Experience Tet 2027

Hanoi

If you really want to feel the atmosphere of Tet, I'd suggest starting at the Thang Long Imperial Citadel. On the first day of Tet, the citadel hosts incense offerings and performances that truly capture the spirit of the holiday.

Then, head to Hang Ma Street in the Old Quarter. The entire street is decorated with red lanterns, lucky charms and vibrant decorations.

If you're looking for something more traditional, Duong Lam Ancient Village is perfect. Here, you can make your own banh chung and join locals to see how Tet was celebrated centuries ago.

Ho Chi Minh City

My top choice is Nguyen Hue Flower Street. The street is filled with beautiful flower displays, street performances and a festive atmosphere that lasts for days. It's the heart of Tet celebrations in Saigon.

Another spot you can't miss is Chinatown (District 5). It's filled with incense-scented temples, lanterns and bustling markets.

And of course, no trip to HCMC would be complete without a visit to Ben Thanh Market. The market gets even livelier during Tet, with locals buying sweets, dried fruit and last-minute decorations for their homes.

Da Nang

Da Nang is a bit quieter than the big cities, but it still has plenty to offer during Tet. The fireworks over the Han River are a must-see: the river and bridges light up with beautiful displays that create the festive atmosphere.

If you prefer a more relaxed Tet celebration, My Khe Beach hosts events and markets where you can enjoy the holiday by the sea.

Hoi An

Hoi An is without a doubt one of my favorite places during Tet. The Ancient Town is lit up with lanterns and the atmosphere is lively, especially since many locals return to their villages for the holiday.

The atmosphere is magical and vibrant. I'd recommend strolling through the old town, grabbing a cup of tea, and soaking up the festive spirit.

Sapa

If you want to experience Tet in a completely different setting, head to Sapa. It's full of local festivals that will immerse you in the traditions of the mountain tribes. The Roong Pooc Festival of the Giay people, Tet Nhay with the Dao people, and the Xuong Dong Festival of the Tay people are cultural gems during Tet.

How to Say Happy New Year in Vietnamese?

We've prepared some help for your well-wishes! Take a look at our collection of friendly phrases commonly used by Vietnamese people to wish someone well as Tet begins, for a warm start:

• Chuc Mung Nam Moi: (pronounced: chook moong nahm moy)

Meaning: Happy New Year, Happy Tet

• Van Su Nhu Y: (pronounced: vahn soo nyu ee)

Meaning: May all your wishes come true

• An Khang Thinh Vuong: (pronounced: an khang ting vuong)

Meaning: Safety, good health and prosperity

• Suc Khoe Doi Dao: (pronounced: sook kwee doy dao)

Meaning: Abundant health

• Tien Vao Nhu Nuoc: (pronounced: tee-en vao nyu nook)

Meaning: May money flow like water

• Chuc Hay An Chong Lon: (pronounced: chook high aan chong lon)

Meaning: I wish you grow quickly like a plant

• Tan Tai Tan Loc: (pronounced: tan tai tan lohk)

Meaning: I wish you a wealthy new year

FAQ

Is Vietnam open during Tet?

Yes. Transportation keeps running in major cities, but many shops and restaurants may close for a few days. It's best to plan ahead.

What do Vietnamese people eat during Tet?

Traditional dishes include banh chung, banh tet, pickled vegetables, spring rolls, braised pork with eggs, and various festive sweets and candied fruits.

What should I wear during Tet?

Dress neatly and respectfully, especially when visiting temples. Bright colors like red or yellow are considered lucky.

Should I give lucky money (li xi) to Vietnamese people?

Yes, if you're visiting a family or spending Tet with locals, giving a small red envelope is a nice gesture. You don't need to give much money. If the tradition doesn't feel comfortable to you, that's fine too. You can instead bring a small gift, such as a bottle of wine or a fruit basket for the host.

>>> To better prepare for your trip to Vietnam during Tet:

• Vietnam in January
• Vietnam in February, Weather and Places to Visit
• Hmong New Year in Vietnam and Laos

Some Essential Tips for Your Tet Adventure

Some Businesses Will Be Closed:

Tet is the peak travel season, as every place receives a huge surge of transportation, so plan your accommodation and travel well in advance.
Many shops and restaurants close during Tet and may stay closed for several days. Make sure to stock up on essentials in advance and plan other activities accordingly.

Try the Tet Specialties:

• Don't miss the traditional dishes of Vietnamese Tet, including favorites like Banh Chung (square sticky rice cake), Banh Tet, pickled vegetables, fried spring rolls, caramelized pork with eggs, and a delicious variety of festive sweets like Mut (candied fruit), cookies and traditional treats.
• Explore the nearest local markets to taste the authentic flavor of these delicacies that make Tet such a special time in Vietnam.

Dress Appropriately:

• Remember to avoid wearing short or revealing clothes when visiting temples or attending other cultural events.
• Even though Tet falls in spring, be prepared for varied weather conditions such as cold snaps and heavy rain.

Be Patient with the Crowds:

• Since everyone is out and about during these days, expect bigger crowds at popular tourist spots and transport hubs during Tet.
• Be patient and don't get discouraged by the extra time needed for travel.

Follow Fireworks Safety Guidelines:

• Tet is often associated with loud fireworks and music.
• If you plan to enjoy the fireworks, do so in designated areas and follow safety guidelines to ensure joyful and safe holidays.
• If you plan to buy fireworks, follow local laws regarding their use.

Conclusion

Tet isn't just a holiday, it's an opportunity to share the joy, warmth, optimism and love of Vietnamese culture. So, travelers, plan ahead with us, embrace the festive spirit, and enjoy this extraordinary adventure during the Tet 2027 festivities.

May your Tet be full of unforgettable moments, plenty of red envelopes, cultural discoveries, and the joy of a new beginning for 2027. Our guide is always here to help you make the most of this joyful celebration in Vietnam.

Chuc mung nam moi! (Happy New Year!)

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Source: Hanoitimes, Vietnamplus