1. Why is Hoi An a charming destination for Tet?
The Tet Holiday, also known as the Vietnamese Lunar New Year, marks the beginning of spring and a new lunar year in Vietnam. Falling between late January and early February, this is the most significant Vietnamese festival, representing new beginnings, family reunion, and ancestral remembrance.
While the Vietnamese Lunar New Year officially begins on the first day of the lunar calendar, the Tet celebrations already start with the 23rd day of the last lunar month being the Kitchen God’s Day. The Lunar New Year's Eve (the 30th day of the last lunar month) features family dinners and midnight ceremonies.
The festivities continue through the first three days of the new year, concluding with a farewell ceremony to ancestors. While this ceremony is traditionally held on the 3rd day, some families now observe it on the 7th, 10th, or 15th day of the new year, when the ancestors are believed to return to the spirit world after celebrating with their descendants in the material world.
As the country's most important occasion, Tet holds deep cultural significance. It is a time when families gather to pay respects to ancestors, share meals, and pass down cherished customs to younger generations. The festival combines spiritual practices with joyful celebrations, reflecting Vietnamese family values and the hope for prosperity in the new year.
In Hoi An, these time-honored traditions take on an extra special charm. The ancient town, already a treasury of cultural heritage, transforms into an even more enchanting destination during Tet. Every alley becomes a photo-worthy spot as decorations adorn the old quarter. Glowing lanterns, yellow walls draped with spring flowers, and festive ornaments create magical moments at every corner.
During Tet in Hoi An, this UNESCO World Heritage Site comes alive with cultural activities. Visitors can immerse themselves in many experiences, from watching folk performances, playing traditional games to participating in ceremonies.
2. How is the weather during Tet in Hoi An?
Tet in Hoi An brings mild, refreshing weather. Hoi An weather in January and Hoi An weather in February offer comfortable temperatures, minimal rainfall, and cool breezes - perfect conditions for enjoying both outdoor and indoor festivities.
3. Top 10 not-to-be-missed experiences for Tet in Hoi An
3.1. Unwind at Vinpearl Nam Hoi An
The resort and entertainment complex of Vinpearl Hoi An offers a variety of amenities to help you relax and enjoy your time during the Tet Holiday. It includes Vinpearl Resort & Golf Nam Hoi An, an opulent beachfront resort by Binh Minh Beach. This resort combines world-class amenities with festive celebrations, making it an ideal destination for experiencing Vietnam's most cherished holiday season.
The resort's holiday calendar for the last month of 2024 features enchanting events, beginning with the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony on December 7 and a unique Pho Festival on December 12. Special celebrations in 2025 continue with the magical 'Wonka & The Golden Ticket' Christmas Eve dinner and the spectacular 'Tomorrow Land' New Year's Eve party. As Tet approaches, the resort will host more special events embracing traditional Vietnamese New Year customs, offering guests an authentic celebration in the charming setting of Hoi An.
Meanwhile, the amusement park of VinWonders Nam Hoi An provides family-friendly fun. Families can enjoy river cruises, wildlife encounters, and record-breaking coaster rides. The park's cultural zone showcases Vietnamese heritage through craft villages, traditional performances, and ethnic architecture. During Tet in Hoi An, VinWonders Nam Hoi An comes alive with intriguing festivities, creating an unforgettable celebration of this significant occasion.
For golf enthusiasts, the course of Vinpearl Golf Nam Hoi An offers a scenic setting to perfect your swing. Golfers can enjoy the well-maintained greens and fairways surrounded by serene nature. Whether you want a pamper or thrill, the complex of Vinpearl Hoi An has something for everyone during Tet.
Book rooms in Vinpearl Resort & Golf Nam Hoi An
Book tickets of VinWonders Nam Hoi An
3.2. Visit sacred places for blessings
During Tet in Hoi An, locals and tourists alike often seek blessings at spiritual sites. The iconic Japanese Bridge is a popular spot for prayers and photo opportunities. Ancient pagodas like Van Duc Pagoda and Phap Bao Pagoda welcome worshippers seeking peace, while the majestic Quan Cong Temple is where to pay respects to Guan Yu.
The town's old houses and assembly halls take on a special significance during the New Year. Tan Ky Old House and Phung Hung Old House open their doors to those seeking blessings from ancestors. Cantonese Assembly Hall, Fujian Assembly Hall, and Hainan Assembly Hall buzz with activity as visitors come to pray for prosperity, their courtyards filled with the sweet scent of joss sticks and spring flowers.
Sacred Hoi An temples offer a profound glimpse into Vietnamese spiritual traditions during Tet. Their ancient architecture and peaceful atmospheres provide perfect settings for both cultural exploration and mindful reflection at the start of the lunar new year.
3.3. Explore markets in Hoi An
During Tet, Hoi An Market transforms into a vibrant traditional bazaar where the lunar new year's spirit comes alive. It preserves the authentic Vietnamese shopping culture, offering everything from ceremonial items to Tet cakes. The market bustles with cheerful energy as the locals come to shop. Some come specifically for Tet cakes, while others simply wander to absorb the festive atmosphere. Tourists mingle with the locals, capturing photos of this unique Vietnamese experience.
Additionally, spring flowers are spread across major streets like Tran Hung Dao, Nguyen Hue, Hoang Dieu, Ngo Gia Tu, Pham Hong Thai, Thai Phien, and Ly Thuong Kiet. The streets are adorned with chrysanthemums, roses, apricot blossoms, kumquat trees, and hanging plants. These floral arrangements transform the ancient town into a botanical paradise, offering perfect photo opportunities.
3.4. Delight in cultural performances
Cultural performances bring the ancient town to vibrant life during Tet in Hoi An. On Lunar New Year's Eve, the city comes alive with music, traditional ceremonies, and special artistic programs welcoming the new year.
Throughout the festive period, the ancient town hosts various activities. Street musicians fill the streets with melodic tunes, while traditional hat boi performances showcase Vietnam's theatrical heritage. Creative corners and artistic installations add a contemporary flair to the nostalgic ambiance.
At the transitional moment between the old and new year, the city erupts in celebration with a spectacular fireworks display. Fireworks illuminate the ancient town, reflecting off the Thu Bon River as locals and tourists welcome the new year together.
3.5. Take part in folk games and activities
Participating in folk activities is an essential part of Tet in Hoi An. Visitors can try bai choi, a UNESCO-recognized folk game combining music, poetry, and card matching. Vibrant lion dances weave through the streets, while traditional pot-breaking games test participants' skills while blindfolded. For those seeking good fortune, calligraphy sessions offer a chance to receive New Year writings as blessings.
These engaging activities showcase Hoi An's rich heritage while creating a festive atmosphere. Whether actively participating or simply watching, visitors can immerse themselves in authentic Tet traditions that have been cherished for generations in this ancient town.
3.6. Enjoy a boat ride and release lanterns
Taking a Hoi An boat ride during Tet in Hoi An offers a magical perspective of the ancient town. These traditional wooden boats carry visitors through the town's heart, offering unique views of festive decorations and illuminated bridges. The gentle water reflects hundreds of Hoi An lanterns that cast a warm glow over the celebration.
The traditional practice of releasing lanterns on the river becomes even more special during Tet. Visitors can join the locals in sending glowing wishes downstream, their lanterns joining hundreds of others in a symphony of floating lights. This centuries-old custom is believed to bring luck and prosperity for the new year.
3.7. Taste dishes for Tet in Hoi An
During Tet in Hoi An, the ancient town's dining tables showcase a perfect blend of festive treats. No Tet feast is complete without Chung cake and Tet cake - traditional sticky rice cakes generously filled with mung beans and pork, served alongside pickled onions and green tea. The holiday preparations include gathering essential foods - from juicy watermelons and Vietnamese ham to whole-boiled chickens and sweet preserves.
The celebration also highlights Hoi An's renowned local specialties. The iconic cao lau represents centuries of cultural fusion. The yellow turmeric noodles of mi Quang and the delicate white rose dumplings (banh bao banh vac) showcase the town's distinctive cuisine during this special time. This combination of festive delicacies and local flavors creates an unforgettable culinary experience.
3.8. Immerse yourself in traditional festivals
Hoi An's traditional festivals offer visitors deep insights into the region's rich heritage, especially during the Lunar New Year season. These vibrant celebrations showcase the town's distinctive customs through various events.
Kim Bong Carpentry Village honors its ancestors on the 12th day of the 1st lunar month at Tien Hien Temple. This festival pays tribute to the founders of the carpentry craft while celebrating the new year.
At Tra Que Vegetable Village, the Cau Bong Festival takes place on the 7th day of the 1st lunar month. The locals gather to honor their farming heritage, pray for a bountiful harvest, and showcase their organic produce to visitors.
The Nguyen Tieu Festival, celebrated from the 14th to the 16th day of the 1st lunar month, represents the beautiful fusion of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese traditions. On this occasion, pagodas across Hoi An host ceremonies with lantern rituals, creating a magical atmosphere of cultural harmony.
3.9. Experience a bike tour
Taking a bike tour during Tet offers a unique perspective of Hoi An's festive charm. Cycling through the decorated streets of Hoi An Ancient Town allows visitors to witness the holiday preparations and traditional decorations adorning centuries-old buildings. A peaceful morning ride provides the perfect opportunity to explore when the ancient town is at its most serene.
These cycling adventures also connect you with Hoi An's heritage through visits to craft villages like Tra Que Vegetable Village, Thanh Ha Pottery Village, and Hoi An Silk Village, each showcasing their special Tet activities. Along the rural roads, you will see families preparing for the holiday, artisans crafting seasonal items, and peaceful scenes of the suburbs decorated with traditional Tet flowers.
3.10. Chill out at beautiful cafes
During Tet, Hoi An cafes offer unique spaces to experience the holiday atmosphere. Herbal drinks, local teas, and aromatic coffee are served in settings that range from centuries-old houses to rooftop terraces overlooking the ancient town.
Some cafes are tucked away in historical buildings like Faifo Café with its third-floor views of Tran Phu Street, while others like Reaching Out Tea House provide tranquil retreats. For those seeking something different, cafes like Hoi An Roastery combine coffee with ice cream treats. Beyond the old quarter, peaceful suburban cafes like Roving Chillhouse and Old Brick Kiln Coffee offer serene views of rice fields just some kilometers away from the town center.
>>> Check out the TOP things to do in Hoi An to add to your bucket list!
4. Travel tips to enjoy the spirit of Tet in Hoi An to the fullest
Here are some tips to help you make the most of your holiday experience in the ancient town:
- Getting around:
- Hoi An's compact size makes walking and cycling the best ways to explore. Most attractions are within walking distance from the town center.
- Bike rentals are widely available if you want to venture out to the suburbs.
- Accommodation:
- It is advisable to book rooms at least 2 months in advance.
- You should expect higher rates during the holiday season.
- What to pack:
- Comfortable shoes for exploring on foot.
- Modest clothing that covers the shoulders and knees for visiting pagodas.
- Light clothing for the warm weather during Tet in Hoi An.
- Cultural etiquette:
- Dress respectfully when visiting religious sites and historical buildings.
- Avoid visiting houses uninvited during the first few days of Tet in Hoi An.
- Be mindful of traditional beliefs, such as the importance of the "first visitor" of the new year.
- Additional tips:
- Many businesses close during the first 1-3 days of Tet in Hoi An.
- Anticipate larger crowds at festivals.
- If invited to a local home, bring a gift.
>>> Check out some unmissable attractions on the Hoi An Vietnam map!
5. Simple Vietnamese phrases for greetings during Tet in Hoi An
As you wander the vibrant streets of Hoi An during the Tet Holiday, why not try out a few well-wishes in Vietnamese? Exchanging New Year's greetings is a cherished tradition that holds deep significance in Vietnamese culture.
Here are some phrases for Happy New Year in Vietnamese that will spread joy during your Tet celebrations:
- “Chúc mừng năm mới!” (Happy New Year)
- “Sức khỏe dồi dào” (Plenty of health)
- “Thành công rực rỡ” (Radiant success)
- “Tiền vô như nước” (Money flows in like water)
- “An khang thịnh vượng” (Security, good health, and prosperity)
- “Vạn sự như ý” (May all things go favorably)
- “Phát tài phát lộc” (Prosperity and wealth)
- “Tấn tài tấn lộc” (A ton of wealth and prosperity)
- “Cung hỉ phát tài” (Congratulations on your wealth)
- “Sống lâu trăm tuổi” (Live a long life of 100 years)
>> Check out our recommended Hoi An itinerary to embrace its charm!
Tet in Hoi An is a truly special time, when the ancient town transforms into a vibrant celebration of Vietnamese culture. From enjoying the lively festivities to unwinding at the luxurious resort of Vinpearl, there are countless ways for visitors to immerse themselves in the joyous Lunar New Year celebrations.
