The Lunar New Year, known as Tet in Vietnam, has long been a time of tradition and family bonding. However, shifting lifestyles and increasing work pressures have led many people to reimagine the way they celebrate this important holiday. Instead of staying within the confines of their homes, more families are choosing to venture out during Tet, seeking relaxation and rejuvenation after a year of hard work.
Families like that of Mrs. Nguyen Hong Anh from Rach Gia are opting for travel destinations like Phu Quoc to unwind and usher in the spring season. This change in mindset reflects a growing trend where Tet celebrations are evolving into a more leisurely and experiential affair. "Tet is about having fun, and if you're having fun, you travel. Staying at home for cleaning can be very exhausting," shared Hong Anh.
Mr. Tran Duy, another resident from Rach Gia, also decided to travel during Tet, finding the experience rewarding after a demanding year of work. Prior to his trips, Duy still made time to visit his hometown in Tan Hiep to pay respects to his grandparents and parents, blending traditional family customs with the enjoyment of a proper New Year holiday.
This shift in Tet celebrations towards travel is not seen as disregarding tradition but rather embracing a different form of celebration. It allows for a more relaxed yet fulfilling way to maintain the essence of family unity during the festive season.
Simultaneously, the trend of experiential tourism has seen significant growth, with tourists seeking destinations rich in cultural identity to immerse themselves in the local Tet ambiance. Regions like the northern mountainous provinces and the Central Highlands are popular choices for their rustic charm and connection to the Tet festivities of the past.
In addition to domestic travel, overseas trips during Tet are gaining traction, especially among younger individuals and financially stable families. Destinations like Thailand, Japan, South Korea, and China are favored for their proximity, similar cultures, and developed services. This trend has pushed the tourism industry to swiftly adapt by offering flexible day tours, family-friendly packages, and resort-like experiences that combine relaxation with cultural immersion.
Amidst this changing landscape of Tet celebrations, the tourism industry is gearing up for the Lunar New Year of the Horse in 2026. Various destinations across Vietnam are preparing to welcome a surge of travelers seeking diverse experiences. From cultural events in Hanoi and Hu to snow-watching tours in Northeast Asia, tourists have a plethora of choices to enjoy the most significant holiday of the year.
Those looking for spiritual experiences can partake in festivals in the northern regions, such as the Huong Pagoda Festival and the Tran Temple Seal Opening Ceremony, while nature enthusiasts can marvel at the blooming peach and plum blossoms in Sa Pa, Moc Chau, and Ha Giang.
Cities like Hoi An, Hue, and Da Nang are hosting unique events to captivate visitors, each offering a distinctive taste of Vietnamese culture and tradition during the Lunar New Year celebrations. Whether it's the Festival of Lights in Hoi An or the Flower Street Festival in Ho Chi Minh City, each location promises vibrant experiences that blend modernity with age-old customs.
As the tourism landscape continues to evolve, both domestically and internationally, the focus remains on providing travelers with holistic experiences that cater to different preferences while keeping the essence of cultural celebrations intact. The Lunar New Year of the Horse in 2026 is expected to be a time of cultural richness, exploration, and unforgettable memories for tourists seeking diverse and meaningful experiences.
