Victory of Ngọc Hồi-Đống Đa 2025
Date: February 2, 2025 (Sunday)
Country: Vietnam Public Holidays
Description
Victory of Ngọc Hồi-Đống Đa honors a decisive 1789 military win by the Vietnamese leader Quang Trung, also known as Emperor Quang Trung. His forces defeated an invading army and secured Vietnam during a critical moment.
The holiday is observed each year around Tet, the Lunar New Year period. It falls on the fifth day of the first lunar month, so the exact date on the western calendar changes between late January and February.
The celebration remembers national rescue from invasion. The victory ended a major foreign threat and helped restore Vietnamese rule. It shows courage, quick thinking, and unity at a time when the country faced great danger.
This event is seen as a turning point in Vietnamese history. It strengthened the sense of independence and inspired later generations to value sovereignty and national pride.
Traditions
People gather at temples and historic sites to honor heroes. They join large crowds for parades, folk performances, and reenactments. Musicians play drums and horns while performers wear traditional costumes and act out famous battles.
Families visit ancestral altars to offer incense, flowers, and paper votive money. Priests lead short ceremonies with bows and prayers for peace. Children often receive small lucky envelopes or tokens during the visits.
Street vendors sell festive foods like bánh chưng, chè sweet soups, grilled meats, and sticky rice cakes. People share meals with neighbors and friends. Lanterns and flags decorate the streets, creating a bright, lively atmosphere.
Travel Tips
Expect some government offices, banks, and small shops to be closed or open shorter hours. Public transport and roads get very busy around main events, so plan travel early, buy tickets in advance, and allow extra time for taxis or buses.
Join official events in daylight and follow local crowd controls. Keep valuables secure and carry water and a phone power bank. Try visiting quieter areas between events, support local vendors, and respect event staff for a safe, meaningful visit.