Lunar New Year 2026 in Vietnam: Traditions, Etiquette, and Local Tips

Tet, or the Vietnamese Lunar New Year, is much more than just a holiday—it is the beating heart of Vietnamese culture. For a few weeks every year, the country undergoes a massive transformation. For expats and long-term residents in Nha Trang, Tet is a period of vibrant colors, ancient rituals, and, occasionally, a bit of confusion regarding closed shops and quiet streets.

As we prepare to welcome the Year of the Horse in 2026, this comprehensive guide will walk you through the traditions, the essential etiquette, and practical “survival” tips to ensure your Tet experience is both respectful and enjoyable.

1. What is Tet and Why Does it Matter?

Lunar New Year, locally known as Tết Nguyên Đán, marks the arrival of spring and the beginning of a new year based on the lunar calendar. In 2026, the first day of Tet falls on Tuesday, February 17th.

For Vietnamese people, Tet is a “reset button.” it is a time to pay respects to ancestors, settle all debts, forgive old grievances, and start fresh. The belief is that how you start the first few days of the year will dictate your luck for the following twelve months. This is why the atmosphere is charged with a mix of frantic preparation before the holiday and profound solemnity during the first days.

2. The Timeline of Tet 2026

To navigate Tet like a pro, you must understand its three distinct phases:

Phase 1: Pre-Tet (The Busy Weeks)

From late January until February 16th, 2026, you will see Nha Trang change. Flower markets will bloom at Yen Phi Park, and the streets will be filled with motorcycles carrying giant Kumquat trees or Peach blossom branches.

• Kitchen Gods Day (February 10th, 2026): Known as Ông Công Ông Táo, families offer sacrifices and release golden carps into rivers or the sea (like at the Nha Trang beach) to send the gods to heaven.

Phase 2: Tet Eve & The First Three Days

• Tet Eve (Feb 16): Families gather for a massive feast. At midnight, fireworks usually light up the 2/4 Square in Nha Trang.

• The First Three Days (Feb 17 – 19): This is the “quiet” period. Most local businesses close. People spend time visiting relatives (Day 1), friends (Day 2), and teachers (Day 3).

Phase 3: Post-Tet

Life begins to return to normal around the 5th or 6th day of the New Year, though many festivities continue throughout the month.

3. The Expat “Survival Guide” in Nha Trang

While Tet is beautiful, it can be inconvenient for those unprepared for the nationwide “shutdown.”

Food and Groceries

Most traditional markets and supermarkets (Lotte Mart, Go!, Co.opmart) will close from the afternoon of Tet Eve (Feb 16) and won’t reopen until the 3rd or 4th day of the New Year.

• Pro Tip: Stock up on dry goods, bottled water, and essential perishables by February 14th. Local convenience stores like WinMart+ may open earlier, but their stock will be limited.

Cash and Banking

ATMs often run out of cash or experience technical issues due to the massive volume of withdrawals before the holiday.

• Pro Tip: Withdraw enough cash for your needs at least 4 days before Tet. Many small shops and local restaurants in Nha Trang still prefer cash over cards or QR transfers during the holiday.

Services and Transportation

• Grab & Taxis: You can still book rides, but wait times will be longer, and a Tet Surcharge (usually 30-50%) will be applied.

• Pharmacies & Hospitals: International hospitals like Vinmec or VK Hospital in Nha Trang usually keep their emergency rooms open, but many private pharmacies will close.

4. Understanding Tet Traditions and Etiquette

The Art of “Li Xi” (Lucky Money)

Giving red envelopes is the most famous Tet tradition. It is a gesture of wishing health and prosperity.

• Who to give to: Children, the elderly, and service staff (security guards at your apartment, cleaners, or your favorite barista).

• The “New Bill” Rule: Always use brand new, crisp bank notes. Avoid using old or crumpled bills, as they symbolize “old luck.”

• Suggested amounts: For service staff or casual acquaintances, 50,000 VND – 100,000 VND is a generous and appropriate gesture.

First Footer (Xong Dat)

Vietnamese believe the first person to enter their home after the stroke of midnight on Tet Eve determines the family’s luck for the year.

• Etiquette: Never visit a Vietnamese friend’s house on the morning of Day 1 unless you have been specifically invited to be their “First Footer.” If you are invited, it is a great honor—make sure to wear bright colors and bring positive energy!

Dress Code: Red and Yellow

• The Good: Red and yellow symbolize wealth, luck, and happiness.

• The Bad: Avoid wearing all-black or all-white outfits when visiting homes or going out during the first three ngày of Tet, as these colors are traditionally associated with funerals and mourning.

5. Where to Experience the Tet Vibe in Nha Trang?

Living in a rental apartment in Nha Trang gives you a front-row seat to the festivities:

1. Yen Phi Park & Children’s Park: This is the heart of the Nha Trang flower festival. It’s perfect for seeing the intricate floral displays and taking photos in a traditional Ao Dai.

2. Long Son Pagoda: On the first morning of Tet, thousands of locals climb the stairs to the giant white Buddha to pray. It is crowded, aromatic with incense, and deeply spiritual.

3. The Beachfront (Tran Phu Street): The city usually decorates the entire coastline with lanterns and art installations. It’s the best place for a leisurely walk on a quiet Tet morning.

6. Tet Culinary Delights: What to Eat?

If you are invited to a Tet meal, you will likely see these staples:

• Banh Chung/Banh Tet: Square or cylindrical sticky rice cakes filled with mung bean and pork. They are heavy, filling, and represent the earth and sky.

• Thit Kho Tau: Caramelized pork with eggs cooked in coconut water.

• Mut Tet: Candied fruits and seeds (watermelon seeds, sunflower seeds) served with hot tea to guests.

Conclusion: Embrace the Slow Pace

Tet is the one time of year when Vietnam truly slows down. While the closure of your favorite cafe might be annoying, Tet offers a rare glimpse into the soul of the country. Embrace the quiet streets of Nha Trang on the first morning of the New Year, give a few red envelopes to the hardworking staff at your apartment building, and enjoy the beautiful decorations.

Chuc Mung Nam Moi! May the Year of the Horse 2026 bring you health, happiness, and a wonderful life in our coastal city.