When Is Tet Festival Celebrated in Vietnam?
Tet Festival, also known as the Vietnamese Lunar New Year, does not follow the Western calendar. Each year, Tet falls on a different date, which often causes confusion for overseas Vietnamese families planning gift deliveries, travel, or holiday celebrations.
This guide explains when Tet is celebrated in Vietnam, how the date is determined, and why understanding the timing is especially important for families living abroad.
Tet Festival in Vietnam is celebrated on the first day of the lunar calendar and usually falls between late January and mid-February. Because Tet follows the moon cycle rather than the Gregorian calendar, its date changes every year. Tet marks the beginning of a new lunar year and is the most important holiday in Vietnam, centered around family reunions, ancestral respect, and wishes for prosperity.
How Is the Tet Festival Date Determined?
Tet follows the lunar calendar, which is based on the phases of the moon. The holiday begins on the first new moon of the lunar year.
- Tet always starts on the first day of the lunar year
- The date changes every year on the Western calendar
- Tet typically falls between January 20 and February 20
Tet Festival Dates by Year
Below are Tet Festival dates based on the lunar calendar. These references help families plan celebrations, travel, and gift deliveries in advance.
- 2024: Saturday, February 10
- 2025: Wednesday, January 29
- 2026: Tuesday, February 17
- 2027: Saturday, February 6
Note: Tet dates follow the lunar calendar and are updated annually for accuracy.
What Day of the Week Is Tet?
The weekday of Tet changes each year and directly affects business hours, delivery schedules, and travel plans throughout Vietnam.
- Tet can fall on any day of the week
- Public holidays usually extend several days before and after Tet Day
- Many businesses close early starting from Tet Eve
How Long Does Tet Festival Last in Vietnam?
Although Tet officially begins on Lunar New Year’s Day, celebrations extend far beyond a single day.
- Preparations often begin one to two weeks before Tet
- Tet Eve is considered the most important moment of the holiday
- Celebrations typically last between three and seven days
Why Knowing the Tet Date Matters for Overseas Vietnamese Families
For Vietnamese living overseas, knowing the exact Tet date is essential for planning meaningful celebrations from afar.
- Gift and flower delivery cut-off dates usually occur before Tet Eve
- Same-day delivery options become limited as Tet approaches
- Early planning ensures better availability and on-time delivery
Experience Note from Overseas Tet Planning
Based on our experience supporting Tet orders for overseas families, customers who plan at least two weeks ahead are far more likely to secure preferred gifts and reliable delivery times. Last-minute orders often face limited options due to nationwide holiday closures.
Related Tet Guides
- Tet Festival in Vietnam: Meaning, Traditions & Culture
- Tet Flower Delivery in Vietnam
- Tet Gifts & Flowers Collection
Quick Answers About Tet Festival Dates
-
Does Tet have a fixed date?
No. Tet changes every year because it follows the lunar calendar. -
Is Tet always in February?
No. Tet can occur in late January or February. -
Do businesses close during Tet?
Yes. Many businesses close or operate with limited hours during Tet.
Conclusion
Tet Festival in Vietnam does not have a fixed date, but its cultural significance remains constant. Understanding when Tet takes place allows overseas families to plan ahead, send gifts on time, and stay connected with loved ones at home. Knowing the Tet date is the first step toward celebrating this important tradition smoothly and meaningfully.
