Vietnam Public Holidays 2025–2026: Complete List of 31 Dates & Travel Guide

Vietnam Public Holidays 2025–2026: 31 Comprehensive Celebration Dates & Travel Guide

Planning a trip to Vietnam requires understanding the country’s rich tapestry of cultural celebrations and national holidays. This comprehensive guide outlines all 31 important dates across Vietnam’s holiday calendar for 2025-2026, complete with weather insights, packing recommendations, and insider travel tips to ensure your journey coincides perfectly with your personal travel goals.

Official Vietnam Public Holidays 2025–2026: Complete Calendar

Vietnam’s holiday calendar combines ancient traditions with modern commemorations, creating unique travel opportunities throughout the year. Understanding these dates is crucial for planning your perfect Vietnamese adventure.

Confirmed National Holidays 2025

Vietnam’s government has officially announced these public holidays for 2025:

Insider Tip: The government often announces “bridge holidays” connecting weekends to official holidays, creating extended breaks. These announcements typically come 2-3 months before the holiday.

Projected National Holidays 2026

Based on historical patterns and the lunar calendar, these are the anticipated dates for 2026:

Cultural Note: While Vietnam officially recognizes these 6 main holidays, the country celebrates over 20 additional traditional festivals throughout the year that don’t result in national days off but significantly impact the travel experience.

Weather Patterns During Vietnamese Holidays (2025-2026)

Vietnam’s climate varies dramatically from north to south, creating distinct weather experiences during each holiday period.

Northern Vietnam (Hanoi, Halong Bay, Sapa)

Central Vietnam (Da Nang, Hoi An, Hue)

Southern Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta)

Weather Travel Insight: For the optimal combination of good weather and cultural experiences, the Tet Holiday period offers the rare opportunity to experience Vietnam’s most important cultural celebration during relatively favorable weather across all regions.

Comprehensive Packing List for Vietnam Holidays 2025-2026

Prepare for your Vietnam holiday with this essential packing guide, tailored to both seasonal weather patterns and cultural considerations.

Essential Documents & Money

• Passport (valid for at least 6 months beyond your trip)
• E-visa confirmation (apply at https://evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn/en_US)
• Travel insurance details
• Multiple payment methods (credit cards, Vietnamese Dong in small denominations)
• Hotel/tour booking confirmations
• International driving permit (if planning to drive)

Clothing Essentials

For Northern Vietnam (Oct-Apr)

• Light jacket or fleece (essential for evening temperatures in Hanoi/Halong)
• Long-sleeve shirts and light sweaters
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Rain jacket (particularly for March/April visits)

For Central & Southern Vietnam (Year-round)

• Lightweight, breathable clothing (cotton, linen)
• Sun hat with wide brim
• Sandals/flip-flops for beaches
• Quick-dry clothing (particularly during rainy season)

For Temples/Pagodas (All Regions)

• Clothing covering shoulders and knees
• Lightweight scarf for women (to cover shoulders when needed)
• Slip-on shoes (many sites require removing footwear)

Health & Hygiene

• Sunscreen (SPF 50+ recommended, expensive in Vietnam)
• Insect repellent with DEET (essential for rural areas)
• Hand sanitizer and wet wipes
• Personal medications
• Basic first-aid kit with diarrhea medication
• Reusable water bottle with filter

Technology & Accessories

• Universal power adapter (Vietnam uses Types A, C and F plugs)
• Portable power bank (15000mAh recommended)
• Camera with extra memory cards
• Waterproof phone case (essential during rainy season)
• Lightweight day pack for excursions

Seasonal Additions: During Tet (January/February 2025), pack something red or gold to participate in holiday traditions and potentially receive lucky money (lì xì) from locals!

Vietnamese Holiday Foods You Must Try in 2025-2026

Vietnam’s holiday celebrations center around special foods rarely available at other times. Here are the must-try dishes during key holiday periods:

Tet Holiday Specialties (January/February)

• Bánh Chưng/Bánh Tét: Square or cylindrical sticky rice cakes with mung bean and pork filling, wrapped in banana leaves. These labor-intensive treats symbolize earth and are the quintessential Tet food.
• Thịt Kho Tàu: Caramelized pork belly and eggs simmered in coconut water with fish sauce, black pepper, and garlic. The dish’s long shelf life was traditionally important during multi-day celebrations.
• Mứt Tết: Colorful candied fruits and vegetables (ginger, coconut, lotus seed, kumquat) served to guests during Tet visits.
• Xôi Gấc: Vibrant red sticky rice colored with gấc fruit, symbolizing good luck and prosperity.

Hung Kings Festival Offerings (April)

• Bánh Giầy: White, round glutinous rice cakes symbolizing the sky
• Bánh Chưng: Square sticky rice cakes representing earth
• Cơm Rượu: Fermented glutinous rice with a slight alcoholic flavor
• Thịt Chua: Fermented pork with distinct sour flavor

Reunification Day & Labor Day Foods (April/May)

• Gỏi Cuốn: Fresh spring rolls with herbs, shrimp, and pork
• Bún Chả: Grilled pork with rice noodles and herbs
• Chè Đậu Xanh: Sweet mung bean soup, perfect for warmer weather

National Day Celebrations (September)

• Phở Bò: Vietnam’s iconic beef noodle soup
• Bánh Mì: Vietnamese baguette sandwiches with various fillings
• Nộm Hoa Chuối: Banana flower salad with chicken or shrimp
• Cơm Lam: Bamboo-cooked rice, popular at patriotic celebrations

Culinary Tip: During Tet, many restaurants close as families gather at home. However, high-end hotels and Vietnam Marvel Travel’s Hanoi food tours offer special holiday menus showcasing traditional dishes that might otherwise be inaccessible to tourists.

Best Time to Visit Vietnam: Matching Holidays with Travel Goals

Different travelers have different priorities. Here’s how to align Vietnam’s 2025-2026 holidays with your specific travel goals:

For Cultural Immersion Seekers

Prime Time: Tet Holiday (January 29-February 4, 2025)

• Experience Vietnam’s most important cultural celebration
• Witness flower markets, family gatherings, and traditional performances
• Observe ancestral worship rituals and temple visits
• Navigate the unique challenge of widespread business closures

Also Consider: Hung Kings Festival (April 10, 2025)

• More manageable crowds than Tet
• Religious ceremonies at the Hung Temple in Phu Tho province
• Traditional games and folk performances

For Beach Enthusiasts

Prime Time: Reunification Day & Labor Day (April 30-May 1, 2025)

• Perfect beach weather in central Vietnam (Da Nang, Nha Trang)
• Water temperatures of 26-28°C (79-82°F)
• Extended holiday atmosphere with fewer international tourists
• Domestic tourism creates lively beach atmosphere

Also Consider: New Year’s Holiday (January 1, 2025)

• Excellent beach conditions in southern Vietnam
• Less crowded than Western holiday periods
• Celebration atmosphere without extreme price increases

For Photography Enthusiasts

Prime Time: Tet Holiday (January 29-February 4, 2025)

• Vibrant decorations throughout cities and villages
• Blooming yellow mai and pink đào flowers
• Traditional costumes worn for temple visits
• Festive food displays and market scenes

Also Consider: National Day (September 2, 2025)

• Dramatic patriotic displays and flags
• Evening light shows and fireworks
• Street decorations and performances

For Budget Travelers

Prime Time: Avoid all national holidays

• Mid-February 2025 (post-Tet)
• Late May 2025 (between holidays)
• October 2025 (shoulder season)

Warning: Prices for accommodation can increase 50-200% during Tet and other major holidays, with many budget options booking out months in advance.

Travel Insight: For the perfect balance between cultural experiences and manageable crowds, visit during the week-long lead-up to Tet rather than during the actual holiday. You’ll witness the preparations and excitement without the complete business shutdowns.

Trusted Traveler Reviews: Holiday Experiences in Vietnam

Real experiences from verified travelers who visited Vietnam during holiday periods:

Tet Holiday Experiences

“Visiting Hanoi during Tet 2023 was both challenging and magical. Many restaurants were closed, but the Tet flower markets at Quang An and Hang Luoc were spectacular photo opportunities. The empty streets in normally chaotic Hanoi were surreal!”

— Sarah K., United States ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (TripAdvisor, verified stay)

“We booked a 3-day cruise with Halong Bay Lux Cruises during Tet 2024. While expensive (about 30% more than regular season), the onboard Tet celebration with traditional foods and customs was worth it. The bay was less crowded than usual, and we received red envelopes with lucky money from the crew!”

— Marcus L., Germany ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Booking.com, verified stay)

Reunification Day & Labor Day Experiences

“Da Nang beaches were crowded but festive during the April 30 holiday. Hotels were full of Vietnamese families, which created an authentic atmosphere. The International Fireworks Festival coincided with our visit, making for spectacular evenings.”

— Mei L., Singapore ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Google Reviews, Local Guide)

“We took the Hanoi City Tour with Vietnam Marvel Travel during the Labor Day weekend. Despite being a holiday, our guide arranged special access to several sites and provided context about the historical significance of Reunification Day that we wouldn’t have understood otherwise.”

— James and Linda P., Australia ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Vietnam Marvel Travel, verified booking)

National Day Reflections

“Ho Chi Minh City during National Day was an unexpected highlight of our Southeast Asia trip. The streets were decorated with thousands of red flags, and the parade on September 2nd featured traditional performances alongside military displays. Most tourist attractions remained open, though with modified hours.”

— Akira T., Japan ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (TripAdvisor, verified stay)

Traveler Consensus: The majority of reviews indicate that while holiday periods present some logistical challenges, they offer unique cultural insights impossible to experience during regular times. Advance planning and flexibility are consistently mentioned as essential strategies.

Luxury vs. Budget: Holiday Travel Options in Vietnam 2025-2026

Vietnam offers remarkable diversity in travel experiences across all budget levels, with special considerations during holiday periods.

Luxury Holiday Experiences

Recommended: Vietnam Marvel Travel premium packages combine luxury accommodations with exclusive holiday events.

• 5-Star Tet Experience: $2,800-3,500 per person (7 days)

• Private Tet dinner with local family
• Helicopter tour over Halong Bay
• Personal shopping assistant for Tet markets
• 24/7 concierge services

• National Day Luxury Package: $1,900-2,400 per person (5 days)

• VIP seating at celebration events
• Private guided tours during peak periods
• Premium transportation avoiding holiday traffic
• Special permits for photography at restricted events

Mid-Range Holiday Options

• Tet Cultural Immersion: $800-1,200 per person (5 days)

• Boutique hotel accommodations
• Small group Tet cooking classes
• Guided market visits
• Transportation between major sites

• Beach Holiday Package (Labor Day): $600-900 per person (4 days)

• 4-star beachfront resort
• Selected meals included
• Airport transfers
• Half-day excursions

Budget-Friendly Holiday Strategies

• Independent Tet Experience: $350-500 per person (5 days)

• Advance-booked guesthouses (crucial during holidays)
• Public transportation (limited schedule during Tet)
• Self-guided tours using apps
• Street food exploration

• Domestic Transport Tips: Book trains/buses at least 30 days before Tet and 14 days before other holidays to secure seats.

Budget Insight: During Tet, consider staying in university areas of major cities where student-oriented businesses often remain open while catering to budget travelers.

7 Travel Hacks for Vietnam Holidays 2025-2026

Maximize your holiday experience in Vietnam with these insider strategies:

1. Strategic Timing Around Tet

Book your arrival 3-4 days before Tet officially begins to witness the exciting preparations while businesses are still open. Many travelers report this pre-Tet period offers better experiences than the holiday itself.

2. Holiday Transport Reservations

For train travel during any holiday period, use the official Vietnam Railways booking platform (dsvn.vn) exactly 60 days before your travel date when tickets first become available.

3. Regional Holiday Strategy

During national holidays, consider visiting secondary destinations rather than major tourist hotspots. While Hanoi may shut down during Tet, coastal Quy Nhon or highland Dalat offer more accessible experiences with fewer closures.

4. Accommodation Negotiation

For stays of 3+ nights during holiday periods, email hotels directly rather than using booking platforms. Many offer unpublished discounts for direct bookings during high-demand periods to avoid commission fees.

5. Holiday-Specific Apps

Download the Tet Calendar app (available on Android and iOS) which provides real-time updates on holiday-specific events, operating hours, and traffic conditions.

6. Banking Preparation

ATMs frequently run out of cash before major holidays as locals withdraw funds for celebrations. Make larger withdrawals 3-4 days before holiday periods begin.

7. Dining Strategy

Research and save restaurant contact information before holidays, particularly for Tet when up to 80% of establishments close. International hotel restaurants remain reliable options during closure periods.

Expert Tip: Consider a cooking class scheduled early in your trip during holiday periods. You’ll learn to prepare traditional dishes that you might not be able to find in restaurants during actual holiday closures.

Cultural Etiquette During Vietnamese Holidays

Understanding and respecting cultural norms during Vietnamese holidays will significantly enhance your experience:

Tet-Specific Etiquette

• Avoid wearing black or white clothing (associated with funerals)
• Don’t sweep or clean on the first day of Tet (symbolizes sweeping away good luck)
• Bring fruit, sweets, or quality tea when visiting Vietnamese homes
• Use both hands when giving or receiving gifts
• Don’t visit without invitation on the first day of Tet (reserved for immediate family)

General Holiday Respect

• Remove shoes when entering homes, temples, and some businesses
• Dress modestly at religious sites (covered shoulders and knees)
• Ask permission before photographing individuals, particularly ethnic minorities
• Avoid public displays of affection
• Learn basic Vietnamese greetings (“Chúc mừng năm mới” for Happy New Year)

Cultural Insight: During Tet, Vietnamese people avoid arguments and negative language, believing the first days of the year set patterns for the months ahead. Maintaining a positive attitude is considered essential during this period.

Combining Vietnam Holidays with Regional Travel

Many travelers incorporate Vietnam’s holidays into larger Southeast Asian itineraries. Here’s how to strategically plan multi-country trips during 2025-2026:

Vietnam-Cambodia Holiday Connection

• Optimal Timing: February 5-15, 2025 (post-Tet period)
• Route: Depart Vietnam after Tet celebrations conclude
• Advantage: Experience Vietnam’s biggest holiday, then enjoy Cambodia’s peak season with excellent weather and minimal crowds

Vietnam-Thailand Festival Combination

• Optimal Timing: April 13-25, 2025
• Route: Begin with Thailand’s Songkran water festival (April 13-15), then travel to Vietnam for Hung Kings Festival
• Advantage: Experience two major cultural celebrations within a single 2-week trip

Vietnam-Laos Holiday Journey

• Optimal Timing: January 20-February 10, 2025
• Route: Start in Northern Vietnam for pre-Tet activities, cross into Laos during peak Tet closure days, return to Vietnam for post-Tet celebrations
• Advantage: Strategic avoidance of Vietnam’s most challenging travel days while experiencing the cultural region

Regional Insight: When planning multi-country trips around Vietnamese holidays, consider that neighboring countries may experience spillover effects, particularly increased accommodation prices in border regions and reduced transportation options.

Vietnam Holiday FAQ: 13 Essential Questions Answered

1. Are tourist attractions open during Tet?

Answer: Major tourist attractions maintain limited operations during Tet, but with reduced hours. Museums typically close for 2-3 days during the core celebration. Historical sites remain physically accessible but may have limited services. Hotels arrange special programming to compensate for citywide closures.

2. How much do prices increase during Vietnamese holidays?

Answer: Expect price increases of:

• Accommodation: 30-100% during Tet; 20-50% during other holidays
• Domestic flights: 50-200% premium during holiday periods
• Train tickets: 20-40% higher, with fastest sell-out rates
• Tour packages: 15-25% holiday surcharges common

3. Is it possible to join a local family for Tet celebrations?

Answer: Yes, through:

• Homestay experiences: Book through Vietnam Marvel Travel for vetted family connections
• Community tourism initiatives: Organizations like Responsible Travel Vietnam arrange authentic family celebration experiences
• University international offices: Sometimes coordinate international student placement with host families

4. Are ATMs and banking services available during holidays?

Answer: Banking services operate on significantly reduced schedules during Tet:

• ATMs: Restocked less frequently; withdrawal limits may be temporarily reduced
• Currency exchange: Often unavailable for 3-5 days during core Tet period
• Credit cards: Remain functional at major establishments, but many smaller vendors close
• Banking hours: Most banks close entirely for 5-7 days during Tet

5. How early should I book accommodations for holiday periods?

Answer: Recommended booking windows:

• Tet Holiday: 4-6 months advance for preferred properties
• Reunification/Labor Day: 2-3 months advance
• National Day: 1-2 months advance
• New Year’s Day: 3-4 months advance

6. What are the traffic conditions like during holidays?

Answer: Traffic patterns vary dramatically:

• Pre-Tet: Extreme congestion as people travel to hometowns
• During Tet: Major cities become unusually empty
• Other holidays: Popular domestic tourist destinations experience significant congestion
• Airports/stations: Expect maximum capacity and frequent delays

7. Can I get a visa during holiday periods?

Answer: Plan visa applications around holiday closures:

• E-visa processing: Typically continues but with delayed approval times
• Visa-on-arrival: Available at international airports but with reduced staffing
• Embassy services: Completely unavailable during official holidays
• Visa extensions: Impossible during holiday closure periods

8. Is it safe to travel during Vietnamese holidays?

Answer: Safety considerations during holidays:

• Petty theft: Slightly elevated risk in crowded festival areas
• Traffic accidents: Increased risk due to holiday travel congestion
• Medical services: Operating with reduced staff; international clinics maintain better holiday coverage
• Natural disasters: Central Vietnam may experience typhoons during National Day period (September)

9. What special events occur during National Day?

Answer: National Day celebrations include:

• Military parades: Held in Hanoi’s Ba Dinh Square
• Fireworks displays: In major cities nationwide at 9:00 PM
• Flag-raising ceremonies: Early morning in provincial capitals
• Public performances: Cultural shows in city parks and community centers

10. How do domestic tourists impact holiday travel?

Answer: Impact of domestic tourism during holidays:

• Tet: Minimal domestic tourism as Vietnamese return to ancestral homes
• Reunification/Labor Day: Maximum domestic tourism impact at beaches and major attractions
• National Day: Significant crowds at patriotic sites and urban centers
• Transportation: Near-impossible to secure last-minute tickets during any holiday period

11. What are the operating hours for restaurants during Tet?

Answer: Restaurant operations during Tet follow these patterns:

• Local establishments: 80-90% close for 3-7 days
• International chains: Reduced hours, often 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
• Hotel restaurants: Normal operations with special Tet menus
• Street food: Almost entirely absent during first 3 days of Tet

12. Can I travel between cities during Tet?

Answer: Intercity travel during Tet involves these challenges:

• Flights: Operating but extremely expensive and frequently fully booked
• Trains: Running on reduced schedules with holiday surcharges
• Buses: Many operators suspend service for 3-5 days
• Private transport: Available at premium rates (2-3x normal prices)

13. What’s the best way to experience Tet as a foreigner?

Answer: Maximize your Tet experience through:

• Pre-booking a Tet-specific tour package: Ensures access to activities during closures
• Staying at hotels with cultural programs: Many offer traditional meals and activities
• Visiting flower markets: Peak activity occurs 2-3 days before Tet begins
• Temple visits: Active throughout the holiday with fascinating local customs

Final Thoughts: Making the Most of Vietnam’s 2025-2026 Holidays

Vietnam’s public holidays offer unique windows into the country’s cultural soul, presenting both challenges and extraordinary opportunities for travelers. The most successful holiday experiences come from thorough preparation, cultural respect, and flexibility.

For those seeking immersive cultural experiences, Vietnam’s holiday calendar for 2025-2026 offers perfect opportunities to witness traditions that have evolved over thousands of years. From the family-centered celebrations of Tet to the patriotic displays of National Day, these events reveal aspects of Vietnamese culture invisible during ordinary travel periods.

Weather patterns, regional variations, and holiday-specific customs create a complex planning landscape, but the rewards for well-prepared travelers are substantial. By understanding the practical aspects covered in this guide—from packing essentials to transportation strategies—you’ll navigate Vietnam’s holiday periods with confidence.

For personalized assistance with your holiday travel plans, consider connecting with Vietnam Marvel Travel, specialists in creating authentic experiences during Vietnam’s most culturally significant periods.

Whether you’re drawn to the festive atmosphere of Tet, the historical significance of Reunification Day, or the patriotic celebrations of National Day, Vietnam’s 2025-2026 holiday calendar promises memorable experiences for thoughtful travelers willing to embrace both the challenges and the magic of these special times.

Contact Information

Website: vietnammarveltravel.com
Email: vietnammarveltravel@gmail.com
Phone: +84.978.358.422
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