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If there is one moment in the year when Ho Chi Minh City feels truly special, it is Tết Nguyên Đán. The city lights up with colour, tradition, and a festive calm rarely seen at any other time. Streets slow down, celebrations take over public spaces, and travellers are welcomed into one of Vietnam’s most meaningful cultural moments.
This guide helps you experience Tết in Ho Chi Minh City the right way — immersive by day, comfortable by night, and unforgettable throughout.
Why Tết Is the Best Time to Visit Ho Chi Minh City
During the Lunar New Year, Ho Chi Minh City takes on a unique rhythm. While many locals return to their hometowns, the city becomes more open, more scenic, and easier to explore. Decorations fill the streets, seasonal flowers appear everywhere, and there is a shared sense of optimism in the air.
For travellers, this means festive scenery without the usual crowds, quieter streets, and a rare opportunity to see Saigon at a slower, more elegant pace.
Key Places to Feel the Tết Spirit in Ho Chi Minh City
Nguyễn Huệ Flower Street (Đường Hoa Nguyễn Huệ)
One of the most iconic Tết traditions in Ho Chi Minh City is Đường Hoa Nguyễn Huệ (Nguyen Hue Flower Street) — the annual flower street that appears along Nguyễn Huệ Walking Street in District 1.
Every Lunar New Year, this boulevard is transformed into a vibrant open-air exhibition of flowers, themed landscapes, and zodiac-inspired installations. Carefully designed floral displays stretch from City Hall to the Saigon River, drawing families, photographers, and travellers from morning until late evening.
Visiting Nguyễn Huệ Flower Street is a must-do Tết experience. It captures the spirit of renewal, creativity, and celebration that defines the holiday, and it becomes one of the city’s most lively gathering spots on Tết Eve.
Bến Thành Market & Central District 1
In the days leading up to Tết, Bến Thành Market comes alive with shoppers preparing for the New Year. Stalls overflow with traditional foods, lucky decorations, dried fruits, and festive gifts, creating an energetic atmosphere that reflects the excitement building across the city.
Even during the quieter days of Tết itself, this area remains a cultural landmark worth visiting for its architecture, street scenes, and photo opportunities.
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As midnight approaches on Tết Eve, Ho Chi Minh City turns its attention to the sky. Fireworks are launched across central districts and along the Saigon River, drawing locals and visitors outdoors to welcome the New Year together.
Watching fireworks near the river or from central District 1 offers a powerful moment of connection — joyful, hopeful, and uniquely Saigon.
Getting Around & Where to Stay During Tết
Tết is the busiest travel period of the year in Vietnam, so planning is essential. Flights and accommodation often sell out early, and many businesses close during the first days of the holiday.
Staying in a central, full-service hotel helps you enjoy Tết without stress. Rex Hotel Saigon, located directly on Nguyễn Huệ Walking Street and next to the Nguyễn Huệ Flower Street, places you at the heart of Tết celebrations while offering reliable hospitality, dining options, and easy access to major attractions.
End Your Tết Day in Style
After a day filled with flower streets, festive markets, and city exploration, evenings during Tết are best spent in a calm and refined setting.
Located inside Rex Hotel Saigon, COSMO Club offers a sophisticated way to end your day. With its elegant atmosphere, attentive service, and prime city-centre location, COSMO Club is a natural stop for travellers looking to relax and enjoy Saigon nightlife during the Lunar New Year.
Celebrate Tết the Saigon Way
From the vibrant Nguyễn Huệ Flower Street to quiet morning walks and sparkling fireworks, Tết in Ho Chi Minh City is full of moments worth remembering.