How many public holidays are there in Vietnam? Overall, there are 10 public holidays in Vietnam each year. The government decided to increase the number from 8 in 2007 by adding the Hung King Commemoration, taking the amount very close to the global average of 11.

Vietnamese public holidays are fantastic times to celebrate and experience unique moments of the country’s culture. However, visitors should also be aware that shops may be shut, public transport could be limited, and getting things done is generally more complicated.

This article will explain when the public holidays in Vietnam are, why they are celebrated, and what you can look forward to if you are in Vietnam on one of these dates.

International New Year’s Day (January 1)

Like many other countries around the world, Vietnam celebrates New Year’s Day on the first day of the Gregorian calendar. The tradition dates back to the 18th century when the country was a French colony and the tradition was gradually accepted by local people.

The weather at this time of year is warm and comfortable which makes it perfect for going out. People normally meet up with friends and family and sometimes organize trips and excursions. Special programs are shown on local and national channels and the countdown to midnight is always a highlight.

Tet Holiday (January 24-30)

Tet holiday (the Vietnamese lunar new year) is one of the most important days of the year in Vietnam. It normally falls on the final days of January or at the start February and it is a much older tradition than the international new year.

It is a spectacular time to be in Vietnam as the street are decorated with lights and flowers. Everyone prepares their houses and makes lots of Vietnamese typical food in the hope that the year will bring prosperity. The peaceful, happy atmosphere is contagious and makes it a great time to visit the country.

Hung King Temple Festival (April 2)

The Hung King Temple Festival takes place between the 8th and the 11th of the third lunar month to honor Hung King, who founded the Hong band Dynasty in 2979 BC. The festival takes place on Nghia Linh Mountain, Phong Chau District, Phu Tho Province, which is roughly 85 km northwest of Hanoi.

Although the ceremony lasts for days, the most important day is the 10th. The main celebration starts at the foot of the mountain before it moves up to small temples, and ultimately, the High Temple. It is a tradition to light an incense stick for your ancestors and make wishes.

Liberation Day/Reunification Day (April 30)

On April 30 each year, Vietnamese people celebrate the country’s reunification in 1975, when the north and south joined to become one following a long period of conflict. The holiday is a week-long though only April 30 is a holiday.

There are parades through Vietnam’s towns and cities which are decorated with neon lights, flags, and colorful banners. The biggest celebration is in Ho Chi Minh City where thousands fill the streets to celebrate.

International Labor Day (May 1)

Labor Day is celebrated in Vietnam along with another 80 countries around the world. It falls the day after Reunification Day so workers normally enjoy a long break.

The day itself is much quieter than the preceding celebration and many people view the day off as an opportunity to travel or visit their hometown. The tourism industry generally remains open but government institutions close.

Vietnam National Independence Day (September 2)

The public holiday celebrates the day, September 2 (1945), when President Ho Chi Minh declared Vietnam as an independent state at ba Dinh Square following the Japanese occupation during World War II.

It is an exciting celebration when people celebrate their freedom. On the streets there is music, dancing, flowers, decorations, and various activities which visitors can participate in. There are also some spectacular fireworks displays in the evening.

List of Public Holidays in Vietnam

Here are the dates for the 2022Vietnamese public holidays. In previous years the dates have been rescheduled so there is a possibility these dates could change nearer the time.

If you are planning trip to Vietnam you may need a visa to enter the country. Find out more about applying for the Vietnam Visa online.