New Year's Day in Vietnam
New Year's Day falls on January 1 and is a public holiday in Vietnam. It follows the Gregorian calendar and is distinct from Tết, the traditional Lunar New Year, which holds a central place in Vietnamese celebrations.[1][2]
Meaning and legal status
Vietnam's Labor Code lists January 1 as a public holiday and gives employees a fully paid day off. If the holiday falls on an employee's weekly rest day, the law provides a day off on the next working day. Check with individual services and businesses for their opening hours.[1]
The date marks the start of the calendar year, sometimes called Western or International New Year. It sits alongside Tết rather than replacing it: Lunar New Year is Vietnam's most important popular festival, with its own customs and traditions.[2][3]
How people observe the date
Fireworks are held in some major cities, including Hanoi, Da Nang and Ho Chi Minh City. Shopping malls, amusement parks and tourist attractions are active during the holiday period.[2]
Fireworks and outings are ways to mark January 1. Tết has its own traditions, so travellers should not assume that Lunar New Year practices apply to the Gregorian holiday.[2][3]
Practical planning
The Labor Code defines the employee holiday, while local opening hours and event schedules depend on individual offices, businesses and destinations. Malls, amusement parks and attractions are active during the holiday period. Check directly with any place or service you plan to use.[1][2]
If January 1 falls on a weekly rest day, employees are entitled to take the next working day off under the Labor Code.[1]
Frequently asked questions
Is New Year's Day a public holiday in Vietnam?
Yes. The Labor Code provides employees with one fully paid day off on January 1.[1]
When is New Year's Day in Vietnam?
Do people celebrate with fireworks?
Fireworks are held in some major cities, including Hanoi, Da Nang and Ho Chi Minh City. Check local announcements for specific displays.[2]
Sources and references
Sources used for New Year's Day in Vietnam:
- Luật số 45/2019/QH14 của Quốc hội: Bộ Luật Lao động- Government of Viet Nam
- International New Year's Day- Viet Nam National Authority of Tourism
- Vietnamese New Year customs- Government of Viet Nam