when is tet 2026 in vietnam

2 min read 14-03-2025

Meta Description: Discover when Tet Nguyen Dan, the Vietnamese Lunar New Year, falls in 2026! Plan your trip or celebrations with our comprehensive guide, including traditions and events. Learn about the significance of Tet and how Vietnamese people celebrate this important holiday. Don't miss out on the festivities – find out the exact dates here!

Understanding Tet Nguyen Dan

Tet Nguyen Dan, often shortened to Tet, is the most important holiday in Vietnam. It's the Vietnamese Lunar New Year, a time for family reunions, feasting, and vibrant celebrations. Unlike the Gregorian calendar's fixed New Year's Day, Tet's date changes annually, following the lunisolar calendar. This means it falls sometime between late January and early February.

Knowing the exact date of Tet is crucial for anyone planning a trip to Vietnam or wanting to participate in the festivities. Let's find out when Tet 2026 will be celebrated!

When is Tet 2026?

Tet 2026 will begin on Thursday, January 29th, 2026, and end on Sunday, February 1st, 2026. However, the celebrations often extend beyond these official dates. Many businesses and schools close for several days surrounding the holiday.

Key Dates to Remember:

January 29th, 2026: The official start of Tet 2026 (New Year's Day).
January 30th - February 1st, 2026: Continued celebrations and family gatherings.

Planning Your Tet Experience

Knowing the dates allows you to plan accordingly. Whether you're a traveler looking to experience the vibrant culture or a Vietnamese-American planning a family gathering, preparation is key.

What to Expect During Tet:

Family Reunions: Families gather to honor ancestors and enjoy delicious meals.
Traditional Foods: Expect to see and taste many traditional dishes like Banh Tet, Thit Kho Tau, and Canh Chua. Many families prepare these foods weeks in advance.
Decorations: Homes and streets are adorned with vibrant decorations, flowers (especially peach blossoms and apricot blossoms), and lucky red banners.
Lion and Dragon Dances: These energetic performances are a hallmark of Tet celebrations in many towns and cities.
Temple Visits: People visit temples and pagodas to pray for good luck and fortune in the new year.
Gift-Giving: Giving gifts, particularly red envelopes ( li xi) containing money, is a common tradition.

Traveling to Vietnam During Tet:

Book in Advance: Accommodation and flights tend to be booked well in advance due to high demand.
Expect Crowds: Popular tourist destinations will be significantly busier than usual.
Transportation: Public transportation might be affected, so plan your travel arrangements carefully.

Tet Traditions and Customs

Tet is more than just a holiday; it’s a deeply ingrained cultural experience. Many customs and traditions are passed down through generations, adding to the rich tapestry of Vietnamese culture. Learning about these traditions enhances your appreciation and understanding of this special time.

Key Customs:

Chào Tết (New Year's Greetings): "Chúc mừng năm mới" (Happy New Year) is the standard greeting.
Ancestor Veneration: Respect for ancestors is paramount during Tet.
Giving Li Xi: Giving money in red envelopes to children and unmarried adults is a significant part of Tet celebrations.

Beyond the Dates: The Spirit of Tet

While knowing the dates of Tet 2026 is essential for planning, the true essence of Tet lies in its spirit of renewal, family, and community. It's a time for reflection, hope, and celebrating the beginning of a fresh start.

Whether you're celebrating in Vietnam or elsewhere, we hope this guide has helped you understand and appreciate this significant cultural event. Happy Tet!