The TET Festival, also known as Lunar New Year, is one of the most significant celebrations in Vietnam, and Hanoi, the vibrant capital city, comes alive with festivities, colors, and traditions during this time. As we welcome the Year of the Dragon in 2024, residents and visitors alike are eager to immerse themselves in the cultural richness that Hanoi has to offer. If you're wondering where to go to experience the magic of TET in Hanoi this year, here are some must-visit destinations:

1. Hoan Kiem Lake

     Start your TET journey at the heart of Hanoi, Hoan Kiem Lake. During the festival, the area around the lake transforms into a hub of activity with colorful decorations, traditional music performances, and bustling markets selling festive goods and traditional delicacies. 

     Don't miss the chance to witness the iconic Turtle Tower adorned with vibrant lights and decorations, creating a picturesque backdrop for your TET memories.

HoanKiem Lake in Tet Holiday

2. Old Quarter

     Wander through the labyrinthine streets of Hanoi's Old Quarter to soak in the TET atmosphere. Here, you'll find streets adorned with dazzling lights, red and gold decorations symbolizing prosperity and good fortune, and an array of street vendors selling TET specialties like banh chung (sticky rice cake) and peach blossoms, a symbol of spring and new beginnings.

3. Temple of Literature (Van Mieu)

     Step back in time and visit the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first national university and a symbol of knowledge and learning. During TET, the temple is beautifully decorated with traditional motifs and becomes a focal point for cultural performances, calligraphy exhibitions, and ceremonies honoring scholars and ancestors.

4. Quang Ba Flower Market

     Experience the floral extravaganza at Quang Ba Flower Market, one of the largest flower markets in Hanoi. TET is incomplete without flowers, and here you'll find a dazzling array of blooms, from peach blossoms and kumquat trees to orchids and chrysanthemums, all symbolizing luck, prosperity, and happiness for the coming year.

5. Vietnam Museum of Ethnology

     Gain deeper insights into Vietnam's diverse ethnic cultures and TET traditions at the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology. Special exhibitions and cultural performances during the TET period offer visitors a chance to learn about the customs, rituals, and festive practices of different ethnic groups across the country.

6. Ba Dinh Square

     Join in the national celebrations at Ba Dinh Square, where various cultural events and performances are held to mark the start of the Lunar New Year. Witness flag-raising ceremonies, traditional music and dance performances, and the vibrant atmosphere of unity and joy as people come together to usher in the new year.

7. Local Pagodas and Temples

     Explore Hanoi's rich spiritual heritage by visiting local pagodas and temples during TET. Places like Tran Quoc Pagoda, One Pillar Pagoda, and Quan Thanh Temple are not only architectural marvels but also host special TET rituals and ceremonies, offering visitors a glimpse into Vietnamese spiritual traditions.

8. Street Food Adventures

     Indulge your taste buds in Hanoi's world-renowned street food scene, which comes alive with TET specialties during the festival. From sticky rice cakes and crispy spring rolls to sweet treats like candied fruits and coconut desserts, every corner of the city offers a culinary adventure waiting to be savored.

     As you navigate the bustling streets and vibrant alleys of Hanoi during TET, remember to embrace the spirit of the festival – a time of renewal, reunion, and hope for the year ahead. Whether you're marveling at the fireworks lighting up the night sky or sharing a meal with loved ones, the TET Festival in Hanoi promises unforgettable experiences and cherished memories for all who partake in its festivities.