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As travelers increasingly prioritize personalized itineraries in 2026, rather than formulaic itineraries, Tet (Vietnamese Lunar New Year) becomes the ideal time to experience the deepest layers of local culture. Beyond dazzling fireworks and vibrant flower markets, Tet reveals a multifaceted tapestry of Vietnamese culture, reflected in traditional rituals, long-standing beliefs, and unique local customs.
Con Dao: A sacred moment of tranquility amidst the "Island of Candles"
The first destination on this journey to contemplate tranquility is Con Dao Island. Completely different from the boisterous atmosphere of the dazzling fireworks displays on the mainland, New Year's Eve on this island possesses an indescribable solemnity and sacredness. As the moment of transition to the new year approaches, Hang Duong Cemetery becomes the focal point of gratitude with the "Silent Vigil Ceremony."
From 10 PM until dawn, thousands of candles are lit, transforming the area into an island of spiritual light. Visitors can immerse themselves in the quiet crowd, feeling the connection between the glorious past and the peaceful present through the solemn smoke of incense. This is an experience not only for viewing but also for deeply understanding the Vietnamese people's principle of remembering their roots. Before attending the vigil, participating in tours exploring the Con Dao prison system will provide the necessary historical foundation for visitors to fully understand the value of freedom on Independence Day.
Quang Ngai: The auspicious black color in the "Charcoal-Eating Tet" custom of the Gie Trieng people.
Heading up to the highlands of Quang Ngai, visitors will witness one of the most unique and communal New Year customs of the Gie Trieng people: the charcoal-eating festival. Unlike the lowland people's superstition of avoiding the color black during Tet, young Gie Trieng men will go into the forest to burn charcoal, carrying the freshest charcoal back to the village to throw at each other and the villagers.
For them, coal dust symbolizes good fortune, purification, and the belief in a prosperous and abundant new year. This ritual is not only joyful but also reflects the vibrant worldview of the people of the Central Highlands, where natural elements are sanctified to pray for protection for the community. To get closer to the lives of the people, tourists can choose trekking trips through the forest, visiting Kon K'tu village to compare the interesting differences in New Year customs between the Bahnar and Gie Trieng people.
Hue Imperial City: Opening the spring season at the imperial palace through the Nguyen Dynasty's ceremonial erection of the ceremonial pole.
If you're looking for the magnificent beauty and exemplary rituals of the imperial court, Hue is an unmissable choice. Here, Tet (Lunar New Year) is officially marked by the Thuong Tieu ceremony, also known as the pole-raising ceremony, at the Hue Imperial Citadel. Amidst the ancient atmosphere of the Citadel, guards in 19th-century court attire perform the ritual of erecting a towering bamboo pole with the belief of warding off evil spirits and ushering in the new year for the entire royal palace.
This ritual, traditionally revived only during Tet (Lunar New Year), offers a rare glimpse into the ancient court life of the Nguyen dynasty. Exploring the meaning of the cultural symbols embedded in the palace architecture during this time through in-depth heritage tours will help visitors decipher the historical depth hidden behind the moss-covered city walls. This is an opportunity to admire another aspect of Hue – where royal values are strictly preserved amidst the flow of time.
Can Tho: A vibrant spring scene on the rhythmic waves of Cai Rang floating market.
Heading south, the spirit of Tet (Vietnamese New Year) lies in the generosity and abundance of the waterways of Can Tho. Before the first rays of sunlight appear, Cai Rang Floating Market comes alive with hundreds of boats laden with Tet flowers and agricultural products, transforming the Hau River into a vibrant, mobile flower garden.
The riverine lifestyle is vividly expressed through the creative "Five Fruits" platter – Coconut, Papaya, and Mango – conveying the aspirations for a prosperous new year of the people of the Mekong Delta. Navigating the waterways, enjoying a bowl of rice noodle soup right on the water, and visiting ancient houses to learn about the traditional "ancestor worship" meal will allow visitors to experience the simple yet incredibly warm rhythm of life in Southern Vietnam. Tours of orchards combined with experiencing Tet preparations with the locals will be an unforgettable highlight of your spring trip to the South.
Cao Bang: The breath of a thousand years beside the stone stilt houses of Khuoi Ky
In Khuoi Ky stone village in Cao Bang, a completely different sense of time is experienced. Amidst the majestic mountain scenery, the 1,200-year-old stone stilt houses of the Tay people still stand strong through countless Tet (Lunar New Year) seasons. The Tet celebrations here are free from the hustle and bustle of the city, filled only with the gentle melodies of Then folk songs and tranquil spring excursions to Ban Gioc waterfall.
The rustic customs and enduring rock formations create a pristine cultural space where visitors can truly detach themselves from daily worries and immerse themselves in nature. Besides enjoying the festive atmosphere of the highlands during Tet (Lunar New Year), visitors shouldn't miss exploring Nguom Ngao Cave – where the entire cave, filled with shimmering stalactites and stalagmites, creates a magical natural "labyrinth" during the first days of the new year.
Hoi An: The sounds of lion dance drums and traditional folk singing echo through the ancient town.
It's impossible not to mention Hoi An Ancient Town, where lion dances and Bài Chòi (a traditional Vietnamese folk game) have become the soul of Tet (Lunar New Year). The sound of lion dance drums echoes through the narrow, yellow-walled alleys that have existed for two centuries, creating a distinctive nostalgic atmosphere. Amidst the vibrant lion and dragon dances, Bài Chòi – a unique folk art form – attracts a large number of tourists to participate right on the streets.
Here, the interplay between architectural heritage and folk performing arts is heightened, creating a feeling of reliving the bustling trading port of yesteryear. Visitors can also participate in workshops on making handcrafted lanterns, creating their own "immortal peaches"—symbols of longevity and good fortune—to preserve memories of a sunny spring in Central Vietnam.
Duong Lam: Rediscovering memories in the atmosphere of Tet (Lunar New Year) of the past in the Doai region.
Finally, to rediscover the memories of the Northern Delta region, Duong Lam ancient village is the ideal destination. Located only about 50km from Hanoi, it's like an oasis preserving old values with its moss-covered village gate and vibrant red laterite stone houses. Duong Lam's Tet (Lunar New Year) celebrations still retain traditional customs, from tea drinking and New Year greetings to elders to the dignified couplets written in Chinese ink.
Year-end rituals inside centuries-old houses evoke enduring family values and the traditional lifestyle of ancient Vietnamese people. This is the final piece completing the heritage journey, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the vitality of national culture in the modern flow of 2026. A day trip from the heart of the capital will take visitors away from the hustle and bustle to the pure tranquility of the Vietnamese countryside.
The Lunar New Year of the Horse 2026 is opening new doors for those who love local culture. Choosing lesser-known destinations rich in traditional values not only makes the journey more special but also contributes to preserving and honoring Vietnam's precious heritage.
