Whether you have no plans for Tet travel or you choose Saigon as your Tet travel destination, this article will help you explore some prominent Tet activities that you should try.
1/ Fireworks at Bach Dang Pier/Thu Thiem Bridge
Bach Dang Pier and Thu Thiem Bridge are popular locations for Saigon residents to watch fireworks. These areas attract a large crowd due to their unobstructed views without tall buildings blocking the sight. Arrive early to secure the best spot for enjoying the fireworks.
2/ Nguyen Hue Flower Street
Nguyen Hue Flower Street is considered an indispensable feature of every Tet in Saigon, attracting a diverse crowd from all over for sightseeing and photography. Each year, Nguyen Hue Street is decorated with a different zodiac theme, always providing a fresh experience with countless flowers and artistic representations of the zodiac animals, crafted from flowers, wood, or stone, creating excitement for Tet tourists and locals alike.
3/ Tet Book Street
Tet Book Street takes place on the Ngoc Duc Ke – Nguyen Hue – Mac Thi Buoi route, open from the 27th day of the twelfth lunar month to the 4th day of Tet. Nguyen Thai Binh Book Street operates year-round, but during Tet, it is adorned with decorative flowers to match the festive atmosphere. Here, you can not only find interesting books and engage in literary discussions but also participate in activities such as giving calligraphy and writing couplets on Ong Do Street.
4/ Ong Do Street at the Youth Cultural House
Every year, Ong Do Street is organized at the Youth Cultural House, attracting a large number of people who come to seek words of wisdom and write couplets, wishing for good fortune for their families. In recent years, many young people have chosen Ong Do Street as their destination, indicating that the traditional calligraphy of the Vietnamese people is still well-preserved and thriving.
5/ Tao Dan Spring Flower Market
Tao Dan Spring Flower Market is usually held from the 25th day of the twelfth lunar month until the 6th day of Tet, and admission is entirely free. Here, you can admire a myriad of flowers showcasing their vibrant colors in a spectacular display.
6/ Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon
Located in the heart of District 1, Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon is an imposing and ancient structure with French architecture. It is one of Saigon’s symbols and is an unmissable destination during Tet. Although the cathedral is undergoing restoration, the area in front of the cathedral, featuring the statue of the Virgin Mary, is still adorned with Tet decorations, attracting many visitors for sightseeing and prayers.
7/ Visiting Pagodas
Visiting pagodas is an essential tradition not only for Saigon residents but also for many Vietnamese families. It is considered an indispensable custom, not only for seeking peace and good luck for the family but also for lightening the soul and finding tranquility. You can visit beautiful and famous pagodas in Saigon such as Vinh Nghiem Pagoda, Ba Thien Hau Temple, Hoang Phap Pagoda, Buu Long Pagoda, and Vietnam Quoc Tu Pagoda. Besides being places of prayer, these pagodas are beautifully decorated for Tet, providing excellent photo opportunities. However, when visiting these sacred places, remember to dress appropriately.
