When is Tet 2026?, Vietnam public holiday calendar 2026
When is Tet 2026? This is one of the most common questions among Vietnamese locals and expats planning their travel, work schedules, or family reunions during the upcoming year. Tet, or the Vietnamese Lunar New Year, is the most significant holiday in Vietnam, marking the arrival of spring based on the lunar calendar. For those eager to mark their calendars early, knowing what dates Tet falls on in 2026 is essential for preparation and holiday planning. In this article, we will explore the exact timing of Tet 2026, the Vietnam public holiday calendar for 2026, and provide insights on how the holiday period generally unfolds.
Table of Contents
Understanding Tet and Its Significance
Before delving into specific dates, it’s important to understand what Tet entails. Tet Nguyen Dan, commonly known simply as Tet, celebrates the lunar new year and is deeply rooted in Vietnamese culture. Traditionally, it involves family reunions, ancestor worship, special foods, and various festivals. It is also a time for Vietnamese people to relax, travel, and welcome the new year with hope and prosperity.
When is Tet 2026? Exact Dates and Holiday Period
In 2026, Tet falls on February 17th. This date marks the beginning of the lunar year, which varies each year depending on the lunar calendar. The Vietnamese government typically designates a public holiday period, often extending the official days off to accommodate travel and family gatherings. For 2026, the official Tet holiday period is expected to be from February 17th (Tuesday) to February 21st (Saturday), providing citizens approximately five days of holiday, including weekend days.
Official Holiday Schedule for Tet 2026
The Vietnamese government always announces the official holiday schedule closer to the time but generally follows this pattern. Based on previous years, the Tet holiday for 2026 is anticipated to be as follows:
- Start Date: Tuesday, February 17, 2026
- End Date: Saturday, February 21, 2026
Thus, the total holiday duration will be five days, with some workplaces possibly extending the break to include the weekend for a longer vacation period.
Vietnam Public Holiday Calendar 2026
The 2026 public holiday calendar in Vietnam adheres to traditional and national celebrations, with Tet being the highlight. Outlined below are the main holidays that Vietnamese citizens observe:
National Holidays and Festivals
Holidays such as Independence Day, Reunification Day, and International Labor Day are also observed, but Tet remains the most significant. The government sometimes adjusts other holidays around Tet to maximize break times and facilitate travel.
Other Notable Public Holidays in 2026
- April 30th: Reunification Day (Vietnamese Victory Day)
- May 1st: International Labour Day
- September 2nd: National Day
While these holidays are fixed, the Tet holiday period varies annually, with the Lunar New Year date changing based on the lunar calendar.
How Tet Dates Are Calculated
Tet’s date depends on the lunar calendar, similar to other Asian New Year celebrations such as Chinese New Year or Korean Seollal. To determine Tet 2026, astronomers and lunar calendar calculations identify the new moon closest to the beginning of spring, marking the start of the lunar new year.
Step-by-step Process of Date Determination
- Lunar Calendar Calculation: The lunar calendar is based on the cycles of the moon, with each lunar month lasting about 29.5 days.
- Identifying the New Moon: Marking when a new moon occurs closest to the start of spring in the lunar calendar.
- Setting the Date: The first day of the lunar new year (Tết Nguyên Đán) is determined hence, which usually falls between January 21 and February 20.
In 2026, these astronomical calculations place Tet on February 17th, providing a precise date for planning purposes.
Significance of Tet Date in Planning
Knowing the specific date allows travelers and employers to plan ahead, book transportation tickets, and make arrangements for family reunions. Additionally, businesses often wrap up yearly projects before Tet, giving employees time off.
It is crucial to note that the official holiday days can sometimes include weekends or be slightly extended, depending on government regulations or company policies.
Comparing Previous Years’ Tet Dates
To give an idea of how Tet varies annually, here are the Tet dates for a few recent years:
| Year | Tet Date | Holiday Duration |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | February 10 | 5 days |
| 2025 | January 29 | 5 days |
| 2026 | February 17 | 5 days (expected) |
| 2027 | January 22 | 5 days |
From the table, it’s clear that Tet dates fluctuate; hence, it is vital to verify the official schedule closer to the date.
Travel Tips for Tet in 2026
Since Tet is a peak travel season, it is advisable to book tickets early, whether for flights, trains, or buses. Many people travel from urban centers to their hometowns, leading to transportation congestion. Additionally, accommodation fills up quickly during this period, and prices tend to rise.
Make sure to prepare adequately by confirming holiday schedules, packing, and making family and work arrangements well in advance.
Conclusion
When is Tet 2026? The answer is that Tet falls on February 17th, 2026, with an official holiday period generally extended from February 17th to February 21st, offering five days off for Vietnamese people to celebrate the new lunar year. The celebration’s timing varies each year based on lunar calendar calculations, but knowing the exact date helps in planning travel, work schedules, and family reunions. As Vietnam’s most significant holiday, Tet creates a festive atmosphere across the country, and being aware of the holiday schedule ensures a smooth and enjoyable celebration for all.
Remember to check official announcements closer to the date for confirmation of holiday schedules and any potential adjustments.
