How Vietnamese Families and Workplaces Actually Celebrate 20/10
Beyond the flowers and gift guides, there's a practical question worth answering on its own: what do people in Vietnam actually do on October 20? This is less about what to buy and more about the customs, gatherings, and small rituals that make up the day itself.
VIETNAMESE WOMEN'S DAY
At Home
Family Meals
Many Vietnamese families mark the day with a special meal, often prepared by other family members specifically so the women of the household don't have to cook that evening -- a small but meaningful role reversal.
Multigenerational Gatherings
Grandmothers, mothers, and daughters often gather together on or near October 20, treating the day as an occasion for the women in an extended family to spend time together.
At School
Classroom Recognition
Schools frequently organize small classroom activities where students prepare cards, flowers, or short performances to honor female teachers.
Students Reconnecting With Former Teachers
October 20 has become an informal occasion for former students to reach out to teachers from years past, continuing a broader thread of teacher appreciation in Vietnamese culture.
At Work
Company-Wide Recognition
Many Vietnamese offices organize a small celebration for female employees -- flowers at each desk, a shared lunch, or a brief speech acknowledging their contributions over the year.
Male Colleagues Taking on Extra Tasks
In some workplaces, male colleagues informally take on female colleagues' routine tasks for the day as a lighthearted gesture of appreciation.
In Public
Flower Markets and Street Vendors
Flower markets across Vietnamese cities see a significant surge in activity in the days leading up to October 20, with vendors setting up extra stalls specifically for the occasion.
Restaurants and Cafes
Restaurants often see a rise in reservations as families and couples go out to mark the day, and some venues run October 20-specific promotions.
Vietnamese Women's Day Gifts
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Vietnamese people take the day off work for October 20?
No, it is not an official public holiday, so most people work as usual while still finding ways to mark the occasion during or after work hours.
Is it common for men to cook on this day?
Yes, in many households other family members take over meal preparation specifically so the women of the household have a break, though this varies by family.
Can I send flowers to Vietnam to join in these customs from overseas?
Yes. SaigonFlowers accepts international payment and delivers flowers and gifts nationwide across Vietnam, with same-day service available in major cities.
Is workplace recognition common in all Vietnamese companies?
It's widespread but not universal -- larger companies and offices with more female employees tend to organize more visible recognition than smaller workplaces.
Why do flower markets get so busy before October 20?
Flowers, particularly roses, are the most common gift for the holiday, driving a significant surge in demand at markets and florists in the days leading up to it.
What's a simple way to participate in these traditions from abroad?
Sending flowers or a gift for delivery in Vietnam is the most accessible way to participate in the day's customs from overseas, timed to arrive on or just before October 20.
