5 Places to Spend Your Christmas Night in Hanoi
Tropical Christmas it is
Although Christmas is not a public holiday in Vietnam, it has earned great recognition from the local residents. From the beginning of December, Hanoi’s streets are all decorated with Noel’s patterns that create a festive environment helping any expats off being homesick in the night of Christmas. Hanoi’s weather also supports the day which is often cold and dry; the only missing factor for a perfect Noel is snow. Joining in Hanoi’s festive environment, you can totally have fun for this Christmas if you are in Hanoi. Here are our suggestions to the best place to go for Christmas in the capital city:
Hang Ma Street
Located in the heart of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, Hang Ma Street continues to reflect current trends by offering a variety of festive ornaments during special events like International Children’s Day, the Mid-Autumn Festival, New Year's Eve, Tet Holiday, and Christmas. Shoppers can find everything they need to decorate their Christmas trees, as well as gifts and greeting cards, all at affordable prices.
Exploring Hanoi’s Old Quarter during the holiday season enhances the festive experience, reminiscent of hometown celebrations. You'll find Christmas trees displayed outside restaurants, cotton snowmen at ice cream shops, and Santa Claus figures with reindeer adorning clothing stores. It's not unusual to spot a Santa riding a motorbike down the streets, delivering gifts to eager recipients.
Saint Joseph Cathedral
Attending a Christmas Eve service is an essential tradition for Christians, and Hanoi boasts numerous churches that host a variety of religious activities, hymn singing, and musical performances. Among these, Saint Joseph Cathedral (40 Nha Trung Street, Hoan Kiem) stands out as one of the most magnificent and well-known. Other notable churches include Ham Long Church (21 Ham Long Street, Hoan Kiem) and Cua Bac Church (56 Phan Dinh Phung, Ba Dinh).
Hotel Dinner Buffet
During Christmas, some of Hanoi's upscale hotels offer extravagant dinner buffets accompanied by spectacular live performances. A highlight is the Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi, where guests can experience a magical night filled with fairy tale-themed entertainment at its La Beaulieu and Spices Garden restaurants. Artists dressed as characters like Aladdin, Snow White, and Peter Pan will captivate you while you indulge in exquisite international cuisine. Prices are approximately USD 100 for adults, USD 60 for children aged 9-12, and USD 40 for kids aged 3-8.
For those seeking more budget-friendly options, hotels such as the Hilton Hanoi Opera, Melia Hanoi, and Hanoi Daewoo also offer delightful Christmas buffets ranging from USD 30-60.
Music Shows and Parties
On Christmas Eve and Christmas night, Hanoi comes alive with a variety of musical performances in genres including pop, classical, and jazz. Venues like the Hanoi Opera House often host outdoor and indoor concerts themed around the holiday. Expect joyful renditions of classic holiday songs and cheerful celebrations.
In addition, international organizations, universities, and embassies frequently organize Christmas parties to bring together locals and expatriates for an evening of festive joy.
Shopping Malls
Since Black Friday is not traditionally celebrated in Vietnam, the Christmas and New Year season presents a prime opportunity for shopping malls to launch their most significant promotional campaigns of the year, featuring significant discounts and new arrivals. Noteworthy shopping centers in Hanoi include Vincom Plaza, AEON Mall, Lotte Center, and Garden Mall. Don’t miss the chance to snag fashionable items at great prices during this festive shopping season.
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