How Many Days Until Tet 2026? Countdown, Date, Traditions & Your Guide to the Best Tet Festival in Vietnam
If you're planning to experience Vietnam's biggest celebration — whether you're a tourist, expat, or local — you may be wondering:
👉 How many days until Tet 2026?
👉 When is the Lunar New Year in 2026?
👉 Where can I enjoy a Tet celebration in Vietnam?
Why Tet 2026 Is Extra Special for Expats & Tourists
1. Year of the Horse – A Symbol of Breakthrough
The Year of the Horse symbolizes freedom, energy, and big changes. Locals say it's going to be a "breakthrough" year filled with new opportunities and positive transformations.
2. Optimal Holiday Timing – Longest Possible Break
Tet 2026 falls on a Tuesday (February 15th), creating the longest possible holiday stretch in recent years. Many Vietnamese take additional days off, resulting in celebrations that can last up to 7-10 days.
3. Perfect Balance of Tradition and Modern Celebration
While big cities will usually be quiet with low transportation and closed shops, LumenFest 2026 will keep you occupied, happy, and feeling the festive spirit.
The #1 Tet Event You Don't Want to Miss in 2026: LŪMENFEST 2026
Organized by Taimz Event Collective, LūmenFest is the biggest festival built specifically for the international community and young Vietnamese during Tet.
Date: February 18, 2026 (2nd day of Tet – the sweetest spot)
Location: Foreign Trade University
Festival Highlights:
- Live Music performances
- Food stalls featuring varieties of international dishes
- Sports tournaments
- Photobooth experiences
- Networking opportunities
- Speed dating
- A welcoming environment for all nationalities
- International DJs
- Dedicated "First Tet Experience" zone for foreigners (learn lucky money traditions)
10 Things Every Expat & Tourist Should Do Before Tet 2026 Arrives
With only 85 days left, here's your perfect pre-Tet checklist:
- Book flights NOW – prices triple in January
- Plan a short trip to Hoi An, Hue, or Ha Long during the holiday week
- Learn 5 basic Tet greetings (you'll make friends instantly!)
• Chúc Mừng Năm Mới!
• Cung Chúc Tân Xuân! (Happy New Year!) - Get a tailored áo dài or rent one for epic photos
- Stock up on Tet gifts (tea, cookies, dried fruit) if you're invited to a Vietnamese home
- Join a bánh chưng (Tet rice cake) wrapping workshop
- Reserve your spot at LūmenFest 2026
- Prepare red envelopes (lì xì) with small lucky money for kids and service staff
- Book restaurants for New Year's Eve dinner before they're fully booked
- Mark your calendar: Feb 18 = LūmenFest – the best night of Tet 2026!
Quick Tet Travel Tips for Foreigners
- Many shops, restaurants, and offices close from Feb 15–20 – stock up on essentials
- Domestic transport (trains, buses, flights) sells out months in advance
- ATMs can run dry in rural areas – bring cash
- Tet is family-first for Vietnamese – if you're invited to someone's home, it's a huge honor!
Final Words
Only 85 days separate you from one of the most colorful, warm, and photogenic festivals on the planet.
Whether you've lived in Vietnam for years or this will be your very first Tet, make 2026 unforgettable. Let LūmenFest 2026 be the highlight of your Vietnamese Lunar New Year adventure!
Ready to count down with us? Share this page with your expat crew and tag someone who needs to experience Tet in Vietnam! 🚀