Public Holidays In Vietnam: Dates, Meaning And Travel Impact

Public holidays in Vietnam are more than days off work. They reflect history, national identity, family values, and spiritual traditions. If you are planning to travel, relocate, or do business in Vietnam, understanding the holiday calendar will help you avoid surprises and better appreciate local culture.

Overview Of Official Public Holidays

Vietnam currently recognizes the following nationwide public holidays:

Some years include extended breaks due to weekend adjustments.

Major Holidays Explained

1. Tet Nguyen Dan (Lunar New Year)

The most important holiday in Vietnam is Tết Nguyên Đán.

• Based on the lunar calendar
• Usually falls between late January and mid-February
• Officially 5 days off (often extended to 7–9 days)

Why It Matters

Tet marks:

• The beginning of the new lunar year
• Ancestor worship rituals
• Family reunions
• Cultural renewal

This is when most Vietnamese travel back to their hometowns.

Travel Impact

Tet is beautiful — but logistically challenging.

During the first 2–3 days of Tet:

• Many local restaurants close
• Small grocery stores shut down
• Traditional markets pause operations
• Family-run businesses do not reopen immediately

In residential areas especially, visitors may struggle to find open eateries.

👉 Yes — some travelers are genuinely surprised to find themselves with very limited food options.

Tourist districts in major cities (Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang) usually have a few restaurants open, but:

• Options are limited
• Prices may increase
• Service may be slower

Practical Survival Tips During Tet

• Stay near central districts if visiting during Tet
• Buy snacks and bottled water in advance
• Check restaurant opening hours before heading out
• Use hotel concierge services for recommendations

If you are relocating to Vietnam, stock up on basic groceries before the holiday begins

2. Hung Kings’ Commemoration Day

• 10th day of the 3rd lunar month
• Honors the legendary founders of Vietnam

This holiday highlights Vietnam’s long historical continuity and strong ancestral identity.

Travel impact is moderate; most services remain open in major cities.

3. Reunification Day

• April 30
• Marks the end of the Vietnam War in 1975

Often combined with Labor Day (May 1) to create a long weekend.

Expect:

• Domestic travel surge
• Beach destinations crowded
• Higher hotel rates

4. International Labor Day

• May 1
• Celebrates workers

Usually paired with Reunification Day for an extended holiday period.

5. National Day

• September 2
• Commemorates Vietnam’s declaration of independence in 1945

Large cities may host fireworks and official ceremonies.

Government offices close; shopping malls and restaurants usually remain open.

6. New Year’s Day

• January 1
• Western calendar new year

Unlike Tet, this is a short, modern holiday with minimal disruption.

How Public Holidays Affect Daily Life

Government Offices And Banks

Closed during official holidays, especially Tet.

Businesses

• Small family-run shops often close during Tet
• Supermarkets reopen sooner
• Tourist areas operate at reduced capacity

Transportation

• Domestic travel peaks before Tet and late April
• Ticket prices increase significantly

Financial Planning

If you are relocating or doing business:

• Avoid scheduling major transactions during Tet
• Expect slower administrative processing

Lunar Calendar And Cultural Rhythm

Many Vietnamese holidays follow the lunar calendar. This means:

• Dates change every year
• Festival timing affects travel planning
• Religious observances influence daily life

Understanding this rhythm helps you better integrate into Vietnamese society.

Practical Tips For Visitors And Expats

• Book transport at least 3–4 weeks before Tet
• Confirm business opening hours in advance
• Keep extra cash during long holidays
• Expect slower service in administrative matters

Conclusion

Public holidays in Vietnam reflect a blend of ancient tradition, national history, and modern state identity. For visitors, they offer rich cultural experiences. For residents and investors, they require thoughtful planning.

If you are coming to Vietnam for the first time, always check the holiday calendar before finalizing your schedule.