New Year's Day 2025
Date: January 1, 2025 (Wednesday)
Country: Vietnam Public Holidays
Description
New Year and Tet are different. New Year Day in Vietnam means the first day of the Gregorian calendar year. It falls on January 1. People watch the date change from December 31 to January 1.
This day marks a fresh start for the whole country. It is a time for looking forward to new chances at school, work, and life. The holiday feels hopeful and bright for many people.
January 1 is a public holiday across Vietnam. Government offices, banks, and many businesses close so people can rest. Schools are also usually closed, giving families a day off together.
The significance of New Year Day goes beyond one night. It represents renewal, planning, and unity as the nation begins another year. Many official messages and news focus on the year ahead.
For Vietnam, New Year Day sits alongside other important holidays. It shows Vietnam taking part in the global calendar while also keeping its own traditions and national life moving forward.
Traditions
Families clean and decorate their homes with kumquat trees and peach or ochna blossoms. They prepare special foods like banh chung or banh tet, boiled chicken, pickled onions and sweets placed on the ancestral altar with candles and fruit.
On New Year Day many people visit temples and the family altar to burn incense and pray for good fortune. Streets have lion dances, fireworks and festive music. People wear new clothes to start fresh and show respect to elders by bowing.
Children receive lucky money called li xi in red envelopes. The first visitor tradition means the first person to enter a home brings luck. Neighbors and relatives exchange greetings and small gifts.
Travel Tips
Expect banks, many government offices, and some shops to be closed or have short hours. Trains, buses, and flights get very busy from late night on December 31 through the morning of January 1, so book early.
Public events and fireworks attract big crowds. Keep valuables secure, avoid dense crowds if you feel unsafe, and use official taxis or ride apps with driver and license details.
Reserve restaurants or hotels ahead and carry ID and small cash. Visit parks or riversides for a calmer experience and follow local safety rules at events.