What can I do during Tet in HCMC?
Tet is one of the most celebrated festivals in Vietnam, and visiting Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon) during this time is an exceptional experience filled with a multitude of activities and events.
Nguyen Hue Flower Street on Nguyen Hue Boulevard
The entire street transforms into a vibrant display of flowers and plants during Tet. No matter how familiar you are with Nguyen Hue Street on a regular day, witnessing its beauty during this festive season is truly remarkable. Each year, the street features a different theme that adds a unique flair to the celebration. Expect thousands of colorful flower arrangements including orchids, daisies, and carnations, artfully displayed to captivate visitors. Donning a festive outfit and armed with a camera will help you capture lovely memories of Tet in Ho Chi Minh City. Spring is truly delightful with the warmth of the sun, colorful blooms, and the cheerful smiles of people filling the streets!
Flower Festival at Tao Dan Park
Tao Dan Park, situated at the intersection of Nguyen Thi Minh Khai and Cach Mang Thang Tam streets, hosts the annual Flower Festival, which differs from Nguyen Hue Flower Street by offering visitors a broader selection of floral displays in a spacious setting. In addition to flowers, visitors can also enjoy exhibits featuring rocks and limestone. Traditional Vietnamese games, including "beating the pot with blindfolds" and "walking on a thin bridge" (Cau Khi), add to the festive atmosphere.
While visiting Nguyen Hue Flower Street is free of charge, an entrance fee of approximately 25,000 to 35,000 VND (around $1.10 to $1.50) is required for the Flower Festival at Tao Dan Park.
In addition to these major festivities, visitors can enjoy lion and dragon dances performed in front of luxury hotels during the first days of the Lunar New Year. These performances are traditionally thought to bring good fortune and prosperity for the year ahead. Another exciting experience is to sample the largest Banh Tet, a traditional cake of Southern Vietnam, at Dam Sen Amusement Park (03 Hoa Binh St, Ward 3, District 11, Ho Chi Minh City), or to participate in the fruit festival at Suoi Tien Theme Park (Tan Phu Ward, District 9).
