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Vietnam transforms into a colourful tapestry of celebration and custom as the year ends. For during New Year in Vietnam, the rich cultural legacy blends with contemporary celebrations to produce a very different and quite magical ambiance. From the busy streets of Hanoi to the calm beaches of Phu Quoc, Vietnam has different experiences catering to your different interests. This country offers an amazing beginning to the new year in a traditional or western style, or even a combination of the two.
10 Best Celebrations For New Year In Vietnam
Here are the top 10 famous New Year events in Vietnam that promise an unforgettable experience.
1. Countdown Festival In Ho Chi Minh City
Photo: Jens Thekkeveettil / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
The Countdown Festival is the most far-reaching celebration for the western-style New Year in Vietnam, taking place in Ho Chi Minh City. It is a massive event that transforms the city centre into a pulsating arena of music, light, and cheer. Different stages are organised with local and international artists representing every possible taste in pop, rock, or electronic dance music. At midnight, the energy is at a fever pitch and reaches its climax with an intense display of fireworks over the Saigon River.
Nearby Attractions: Nguyen Hue Walking Street, Bitexco Financial Tower, Ben Thanh Market
2. Hanoi Opera House New Year’s Eve Gala
Photo: xiquinhosilva / Wikimedia Commons
For those of you seeking a more refined New Year’s experience, the Hanoi Opera House hosts one of the best New Year events in Vietnam that showcases its cultural heritage alongside western classical traditions. This black-tie event begins with a champagne reception in the opulent foyer of the French colonial-era building. After that, you can enjoy a Vietnam National Symphony Orchestra performance featuring both Vietnamese and international compositions. The evening continues with a gourmet dinner featuring fusion cuisine that blends Vietnamese flavours with French culinary techniques.
Nearby Attractions: Hoan Kiem Lake, Old Quarter, Temple of Literature
3. Hoi An Lantern Festival
Photo: Alvin Balemesa / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
While the Hoi An Lantern Festival is a monthly event, the New Year’s edition is particularly special. The ancient town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, becomes even more magical as thousands of colourful lanterns illuminate the streets and float down the Thu Bon River. You can participate in traditional games, watch folk performances, and release their lanterns for good luck in the coming year. Local restaurants offer special New Year’s menus featuring Hoi An specialities.
Nearby Attractions: Japanese Covered Bridge, Tan Ky Old House, An Bang Beach
4. Halong Bay Luxury Cruise Celebration
Photo: Thomas Hirsch / Wikimedia Commons
Experience the magic of a New Year party in Vietnam while boarding a luxury cruise in the stunning Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site. These overnight cruises offer a unique blend of natural beauty and sophisticated celebration. The evening begins with a sunset cocktail reception on the deck, followed by a gourmet dinner featuring fresh seafood and international cuisine. As midnight approaches, you can gather on the top deck for a champagne toast and to watch fireworks illuminate the limestone karsts.
Nearby Attractions: Sung Sot Cave, Ti Top Island, Bai Tu Long Bay
5. Da Nang Fireworks Festival
Photo: Jesse Bijl / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Da Nang’s annual International Fireworks Festival coincides with New Year’s Eve, creating one of Vietnam’s most spectacular celebrations. Teams worldwide compete to create the most impressive pyrotechnic displays, lighting up the sky over the Han River. The festival also features street performances, food stalls offering local specialities, and music concerts. You can watch the fireworks from various vantage points along the riverbank or rooftop bars in the city.
Nearby Attractions: Dragon Bridge, Marble Mountains, My Khe Beach
6. Nha Trang Beach Party
Photo: Christophe95 / Wikimedia Commons
Nha Trang, known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife, hosts one of the best New Year parties in Vietnam. The celebration stretches along the coastline, with multiple stages featuring DJs and live bands. Beach clubs and resorts organise their own events, offering everything from foam parties to fire shows. As midnight strikes, a coordinated fireworks display lights up the bay, reflected in the calm waters of the South China Sea.
Nearby Attractions: Vinpearl Land, Po Nagar Cham Towers, Hon Mun Island
7. Sapa New Year’s Trek and Homestay Experience
Photo: Pierredh / Wikimedia Commons
For those of you seeking a more authentic and nature-oriented New Year’s experience, Sapa offers a unique celebration amidst the terraced rice fields of northern Vietnam. This event combines a guided trek through the stunning landscapes of the Hoang Lien Son mountains with a traditional Hmong New Year celebration. Spend the day hiking through picturesque villages and get to learn about the local customs. Then, spend the evening in a Hmong homestay, where you can prepare a festive meal, make rice wine, and participate in traditional dances and games.
Nearby Attractions: Fansipan Mountain, Cat Cat Village, Love Waterfall
8. Hue Imperial City Tet Festival
Photo: Vyacheslav Argenberg / Wikimedia Commons
While the lunar new year (Tet) falls later than the Western New Year, Hue begins its celebrations early with a festival that bridges both traditions. The former imperial capital comes alive with cultural performances, traditional craft demonstrations, and culinary exhibitions. The highlight is a reenactment of the Nguyen Dynasty’s New Year rituals at the Imperial City. You can participate in folk games, watch royal court music performances, and sample a wide variety of central Vietnamese cuisine.
Nearby Attractions: Thien Mu Pagoda, Tomb of Tu Duc, Dong Ba Market
9. Phu Quoc Island Resort Gala
Photo: Quangpraha / Wikimedia Commons
Phu Quoc, Vietnam’s largest island, offers a tropical paradise setting for New Year’s celebrations. Many high-end resorts on the island host lavish gala dinners and parties. These events typically begin with sunset cocktails on the beach, followed by international buffets featuring fresh seafood and local specialities. Live bands and cultural performances provide entertainment throughout the evening. At midnight, guests gather on the beach for fireworks and floating lantern releases.
Nearby Attractions: Sao Beach, Phu Quoc National Park, Dinh Cau Night Market
10. Mekong Delta Floating Market New Year
Photo: Peter Addor / Wikimedia Commons
For a unique and authentically Vietnamese New Year experience, you can head to the Mekong Delta for a celebration on the water. This event centres around the famous floating markets, which create a festive atmosphere for the new year. You can take an overnight cruise, and wake up to the bustling activity of the markets on New Year’s Day. The celebration includes sampan rides through small canals, visits to fruit orchards, and opportunities to try local specialities. Cultural performances and dragon dances add to the festive atmosphere.
Nearby Attractions: Cai Rang Floating Market, Tram Chim National Park, Vinh Trang Pagoda
Experience the vibrant festivities of New Year in Vietnam. From the dazzling lantern-lit streets of Hoi An to the bustling energy of Ho Chi Minh City, immerse yourself in a cultural extravaganza like never before. Discover ancient traditions, indulge in tantalising cuisine, and create unforgettable memories. Plan your vacation with TripXL today, and embark on a journey to welcome the New Year in Vietnam in style.
Cover Photo: Diego Delso / Wikimedia Commons
