Tet, or Vietnamese Lunar New Year, is the most important and widely celebrated holiday in Vietnam. With its lively traditions, delicious food, and festive atmosphere, Tet is a great time to explore the country’s rich culture. Plus, for travelers and culture lovers, Tet offers a unique chance to experience authentic Vietnamese customs and unforgettable moments. Hence, in this article, we will give you all the details you need to know about Tet Holiday in Vietnam.
When is Tet Holiday in Vietnam?
Tet holiday follows the lunar calendar, so the dates change every year. However, the festive mood starts weeks before, as families get their homes ready, buy gifts, and enjoy the lively flower markets and decorated streets.
If you’re traveling to Vietnam for Tet 2025, arrive early to experience the excitement before the holiday. The days before Lunar New Year are full of lively activities, like lion dances, busy markets, and the buzz of people getting ready for the new year.
Essential Foods for Tet in Vietnam
One of the key highlights of Tet Holiday in Vietnam is its food. Vietnamese families prepare various special dishes to mark this occasion, each symbolizing prosperity, luck, and family togetherness. Here are some iconic Tet foods you must try during your visit:
1. Bánh Chưng (Square Sticky Rice Cake)
Bánh Chưng is a must-have dish on every Tet table. This square-shaped sticky rice cake is wrapped in banana leaves and filled with glutinous rice, pork, and mung beans. It symbolizes gratitude to ancestors and aligns with the Vietnamese concept of the Earth’s shape.
2. Dưa Hành (Pickled Onions)
While sticky rice cakes feel dense, “dưa hành” offers a refreshing balance. This crunchy, tangy side dish complements the richness of other Tet food and is a staple for festive feasting.
3. Thịt Kho Tàu (Braised Pork with Eggs)
This comforting dish of caramelized pork belly slow-cooked with eggs in coconut juice is a family favorite during Tet. Also, its deep flavors and tenderness represent the unity and warmth of family life.
4. Mứt Tết (Candied Fruits)
Tet celebrations often include trays of sweets such as candied kumquats, ginger, and coconut shreds. These are enjoyed with tea as a treat to share with guests who visit during the holiday. The dish is a must-have dish for every household during this Tet festival.
5. Xôi Gấc (Red Sticky Rice)
This bright red sticky rice dish represents good luck and prosperity. It is made from glutinous rice mixed with gac fruit, giving it its vibrant hue and subtly sweet flavor.
Overall, sampling these Tet dishes during the Tet holiday isn’t just a culinary delight, it’s a way to immerse yourself in Vietnam’s festive traditions and culture.
Best Place to Spend Tet Holiday in Vietnam
To make your Tet holiday truly special, spend it in a beautiful place that blends festive fun with relaxation. Mövenpick Resort Cam Ranh, located on Vietnam’s stunning coastline, is the perfect choice. It offers a mix of cultural experiences, luxury, and peaceful vibes—here’s why it should be part of your Tet 2025 plans.
Stunning Beachfront Setting: Relax on the white-sand beaches of Cam Ranh Bay, where clear waters and gentle waves create a peaceful escape. Next, enjoy the sunshine as you lounge by the shore, with the ocean breeze adding to the calm. And if you’re feeling adventurous, take a swim in the sea or try activities like snorkeling or paddleboarding. With stunning views and the soothing sound of waves, Cam Ranh Bay is the perfect place to unwind and recharge.
World-Class Amenities: Mövenpick Resort Cam Ranh offers a luxurious stay with a variety of suites, villas, and studios designed for comfort and style. Each room includes modern amenities like cozy beds, free Wi-Fi, minibars, separate bathrooms, and 24-hour room service, ensuring a relaxing experience.
The resort features 250 elegant rooms and suites, created by the renowned Hirsch Bedner Associates, combining modern design with Champa cultural inspiration. Every room has a private terrace with stunning sea views and a refreshing breeze.
For more privacy, choose one of the 118 pool villas, available with one, two, or three bedrooms. These villas include private pools, Champa-inspired décor, and beautiful art pieces. Moreover, if you’re staying longer, the sea-view studios are perfect, offering spacious living and dining areas, a fully equipped kitchenette, and a balcony for a home-like feel.
Best Cuisines for Tet Holiday
At Mövenpick Resort Cam Ranh, every meal is a treat. Our Restaurants & Bars offer a variety of delicious options:
- Panorama Restaurant: Enjoy global flavors for breakfast, lunch, and dinner in a lively all-day dining setting.
- Lobby Lounge: Relax with coffee, tea, and pastries, and don’t miss the Mövenpick Chocolate Hour—a free delight for chocolate lovers.
- Tropicana Beach Club: Sip on cocktails, enjoy world-class entertainment, and take in stunning ocean views.
- Chubeli Beer House: Savor Bavarian and Swiss dishes with a great selection of beers in a fun Munich-inspired atmosphere.
No matter your taste, Mövenpick Resort Cam Ranh offers a dining experience to suit every mood.
