Vietnamese National Holidays & Festivals 

Vietnam is a land of vibrant traditions, rich culture, and joyful celebrations. Throughout the year, the country hosts numerous festivals that offer travelers unique insights into Vietnamese heritage. Whether you’re strolling through flower-filled streets during Tet or watching dazzling lanterns float on rivers in Hoi An, Vietnam’s festivals are unforgettable experiences. Here’s a guide to some of the most popular festivals in Vietnam and essential tips for travelers who want to make the most of them.

1. Tet Nguyen Dan (Lunar New Year) – January/February
Vietnamese New Year, known as Tet or Tet Nguyen Dan, is the most important festival in Vietnam and marks the beginning of the new year on the lunar calendar as well as a lunisolar calendar. It is celebrated with vibrant customs, family gatherings, and traditional rituals that impress all visitors. If you are visiting Vietnam during the Tet holiday, you are very lucky. Homes are decorated with peach blossoms in the North and apricot flowers in the South. Families gather, cook traditional dishes like Banh Chung, and visit temples for blessings.

Tet takes place at a different time each year, depending on when the first new moon is in the lunar calendar. However, this is typically between late January and mid-February.

Where to Go: Tet is celebrated across all regions of Vietnam, everywhere you go, you’ll feel the festive atmosphere. However, the spirit of Tet is most vibrant in major cities like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, where the streets are beautifully and vibrantly decorated. 

2. Mid-Autumn Festival (Tet Trung Thu) – September/October

Tết Trung Thu or Mid-autumn Festival, is also known in Vietnam as the “Children’s Festival”, takes place every year on the 15th day of the 8th lunar month. This year, the Mid-autumn Festival will be held on October 6, 2025. However, preparations begin far in advance.

The Mid-Autumn Festival, a beloved holiday in Vietnam, is filled with vibrant traditions and activities such as lantern parade, mooncake feast, lion dance, outdoor games...

Where to Go: If you have a chance, you should go to Hoi An this time. It is a magical destination with thousands of lanterns lighting up the ancient town.

3. Firework Festival – Every Year (June- July)

Da Nang is the only locality in Vietnam to have hosted a fireworks festival, making it a magnet for the best fireworks producers from around the world each year since 2008. It has been building a "Fireworks Festival City" reputation to promote it as a top destination in central Vietnam and Asia. This highly anticipated event draws thousands of spectators, both locals and international visitors, to witness world-class fireworks displays set against the stunning backdrop of the Han River. 

Da Nang International Fireworks Festival (DIFF) is expected to take place throughout June and July, featuring a series of thrilling competition nights. Below is the detailed schedule:

 May 31, 2025 (Opening Night):
 Vietnam vs. Finland — 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM

June 7, 2025:
Vietnam vs. Poland — 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM

June 14, 2025:
Canada vs. China — 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM

June 21, 2025:
Portugal vs. United Kingdom — 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM

June 28, 2025:
South Korea vs. Italy — 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM

July 12, 2025 (Final Night):

The grand finale between the two best teams — 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM

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1. Liberation Day of The South and Reunification Day (April 30th)

Reunification Day (April 30th) – also known as Liberation Day – is a significant national holiday in Vietnam. It marks the fall of Saigon on April 30, 1975, which led to the end of the Vietnam War and the reunification of North and South Vietnam under one government.

On the morning of April 30, 2025, Ho Chi Minh City will begin the 50th anniversary celebration of Vietnamese Reunification Day with an April 30th military parade starting at 6:30 AM on Le Duan Street and central boulevards, broadcast live on VTV and Ho Chi Minh City Television.

On this day, the national flag is hung at offices, schools, and homes across Vietnam

International Workers' Day or Labour Day (May 1st)

International Labor Day (May 1st) is a public holiday in Vietnam and many countries around the world. It celebrates the contributions of workers and the labor movement. In Vietnam, May 1st is often combined with Reunification Day (April 30th) to create a long holiday break. 

Vietnam National Day (September 2nd)

Vietnam National Day commemorates the day in 1945 when President Ho Chi Minh proclaimed the independence of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam in Ba Dinh Square, Hanoi. The entire country celebrates with flag-raising ceremonies, patriotic music, fireworks, and various cultural events. Major cities, especially Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, are decorated with banners and lights. It is a public holiday, so offices, schools, and many businesses are closed.

Vietnamese Teachers' Day (November 20th)

This is a special day for students to show gratitude and respect to their teachers. Schools organize performances, gift-giving, and reunion parties. Students, both current and former, often visit their teachers with flowers and small presents. It’s a warm and respectful occasion that highlights the cultural value of education and the deep respect Vietnamese people have for their educators.

International Women’s Day (March 8th)

Celebrated globally, International Women’s Day in Vietnam is marked with activities honoring women’s achievements and roles in society. Men often give flowers and gifts to their mothers, wives, female colleagues, and friends. Schools and workplaces may organize small celebrations or award ceremonies to appreciate female staff and students.

Vietnamese Women’s Day (October 20th)

Similar to March 8th but uniquely Vietnamese, this day commemorates the establishment of the Vietnamese Women's Union in 1930. It is another opportunity to celebrate women’s contributions to families and society. Shops and cafes often run promotions, and flowers become a top-selling item. Many companies also host small parties or give out gifts to female employees.

Vietnam People's Army Day (December 22nd)

This day honors the founding of the Vietnam People’s Army in 1944. It is especially significant for veterans, military personnel, and their families. Ceremonies, parades, and military exhibitions take place across the country. Schools and local communities may invite veterans to speak and share stories, reinforcing patriotism among younger generations.

1. Book Early
Festivals attract both locals and international travelers, so flights and accommodations can sell out fast. Book well in advance, especially for Tet or Hue Festival.

2. Pack Accordingly
Some festivals involve outdoor activities or long walks. Comfortable shoes, lightweight clothing, and a reusable water bottle are essential.

3. Respect Local Customs
Always dress modestly when visiting temples or participating in religious events. Removing your shoes before entering pagodas is expected.

4. Try the Festive Food
Each festival has its own traditional dishes. Don’t miss Banh Tet, Mooncakes, or vegetarian offerings during Buddhist festivals.

Vietnamese festivals are not just events—they’re soulful experiences that connect the past with the present. By timing your trip around a festival, you’ll be rewarded with a deeper appreciation for Vietnamese culture and memories that will last a lifetime.