Celebrating Vietnamese New Year Holidays: Tet and Public Time Off
Vietnamese New Year, locally known as Tet, marks the most important cultural celebration of the calendar year. Employees receive extended public holiday leave to return home and honor their ancestors. This festive period significantly shapes social life and national travel patterns across the country.
History
Tet has ancient roots tied to the agricultural calendar and lunar cycles, symbolizing renewal and transition. Over decades, public holiday policies evolved to give workers more time off, growing the national total to thirteen annual days. Government regulations ensure that weekend overlaps shift days off to the following Monday.
Traditions & Food
Families thoroughly clean their homes before the holiday to sweep away bad luck and welcome prosperity. Traditional foods such as Banh Chung, a square glutinous rice cake wrapped in leaves, take center stage during family feasts. People also exchange red envelopes containing lucky money and visit local temples for blessings.
Closures & Travel
Most government offices, banks, and businesses close for several days during the peak Tet period. Public transport experiences extreme congestion as millions travel between major cities and rural provinces. Travelers should book tickets and accommodations months in advance to avoid disruptions.
Questions about Vietnamese New Year Holidays
When does Vietnamese New Year take place?
It follows the lunar calendar, typically falling in late January or February of the Gregorian calendar.
Are businesses closed during the holiday?
Yes, major banks, government offices, and many shops close for multiple days as workers take mandatory or holiday leave.