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1. About Christmas in Vietnam
Which day is Christmas and how long does it last in Vietnam?
Christmas 2023 in Vietnam will be the same as in other countries: December 24 night & December 25. Though it is not an old tradition of Vietnam, but affected by the Western countries these recent centuries, Christmas is still a top festival in Vietnam that everyone looks forward to.
You will start noticing the Christmas 2023 atmosphere when the decorations are on. Normally, Vietnamese (especially Catholic or Christian) will decorate for Christmas 2-3 weeks in advance, and they will even last 1 week after Christmas Day. Therefore, you will have about 1 month celebration.
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Is Christmas popular in Vietnam?
Most Vietnamese are Buddhist, however, that does not stop Christmas from being one of the most common festivals in Vietnam. In 2023, you can enjoy it everywhere in Vietnam when it is coming close. There are no boundaries between religions or people.
2. Top things to do in Vietnam for Christmas 2023
Visit the churches
Visiting churches during Christmas in Vietnam provides an opportunity to witness the fusion of Christian and Vietnamese traditions. The festive atmosphere, combined with local customs and traditions, creates a unique and memorable celebration. It’s a chance to learn about the cultural diversity and religious tolerance in Vietnam. Furthermore, the architecture and design of churches in Vietnam are often stunning and captivating. Many churches boast a blend of European and Vietnamese architectural styles, creating a visual feast for visitors.
Unlike 2020 to 2022, which were still affected by COVID-19, there will be no limit on visiting churches in Christmas 2023 as you don’t need to follow restrictions anymore. There are a lot of stunning churches in every part of Vietnam, which you can easily visit on your trip. Here are some examples:
- Notre Dame Cathedral – Ho Chi Minh City (still under construction until 2027)
- Tan Dinh Church – Ho Chi Minh City
- St. Joseph’s Cathedral – Hanoi
- Da Nang Cathedral – Da Nang
- Cathédrale du Roi – Nha Trang
- St. Nicholas Cathedral (Rooster Church) – Da Lat
- An Thoi Church – Phu Quoc
Visit the Catholic/ Christian streets
Neighborhood connection is essential in Vietnamese culture. There is a special term that you can only find when traveling in Vietnam: “xóm đạo” or Catholic/ Christian streets. These are neighbors of a lot of Catholic/ Christian families celebrating Christmas together. They create beautiful scenes on the street which travelers visiting Vietnam should visit at least once if they are here in Christmas 2023. Some examples:
- Catholic street district 4 and district 8 – Ho Chi Minh City
Most of these areas are not on Google Maps, so you will need to wander around yourself to explore.
Go for shopping centers and malls
Malls in Vietnam go all out in decorating their premises during the holiday season, creating a festive and immersive atmosphere. The malls are adorned with dazzling lights, colorful ornaments, and beautiful Christmas displays, making it a delightful sight to behold. Walking through these malls can evoke a sense of joy and excitement, helping you get into the holiday spirit. Many stores also offer special promotions and discounts during the holiday season, making it a great time to find unique gifts for your loved ones or indulge in some retail therapy.
Here are some recommended malls in Vietnam for you to enjoy your Christmas 2023:
- Saigon Centre – Ho Chi Minh City
- Van Hanh Mall – Ho Chi Minh City
- Crescent Mall – Ho Chi Minh City
- Trang Tien Plaza – Hanoi
- Aeon Mall Long Bien – Hanoi
- Vincom Plaza – Da Nang
- Vincom Plaza – Nha Trang
Join the Wake Up Festival 2023 in Phu Quoc - with Maroon 5
You can do most of the things above in any year. However, in this Christmas 2023, a special event is coming. If you are traveling to Phu Quoc, Vietnam, this is a special festival you should not miss.
According to the Organizing Committee, the series of large-scale, high-class entertainment tourism events – “Wake Up Festival 2023” kicks off on October 30, then explodes throughout 30 days and nights from December 9 – January 7/ 2024. In particular, for the first time in Vietnam, fans will enjoy the top performance of contemporary pop-rock band Maroon 5 at the international super concert 8Wonder.
The next highlight of the winter festival will be the giant Christmas tree lighting activity at the northern center of Pearl Island and all Vinpearl – VinWonders facilities from December 9, 2023, to “awaken the sense of association”. summer” for tourists. From these days, the entire northern Phu Quoc island will be filled with a “festival of festivals” atmosphere with classy spaces, experiences of music, art, entertainment, diverse cuisine and nature and culture.
In particular, the most anticipated peak event of the winter festival – the super music festival 8Wonder Winter Festival will also take place in the week before Christmas – December 16, 2023. The stars that rocked the 8Wonder stage this year were the world’s most successful pop-rock band – Maroon 5, with top performances. Not only does it create “unlimited emotional wonders” for visitors – with the presence of contemporary pop – rock monuments and a series of top Vpop singers – 8Wonder continues to affirm its position as a festival. world-class music festival on the global entertainment industry map.
Do a local Vietnam tours
Booking a local tour in Vietnam for Christmas 2023 can offer several advantages and enhance your overall travel experience. Here are some reasons why:
1. Cultural immersion: A local tour allows you to immerse yourself in the local culture and traditions of Vietnam. You can explore the vibrant cities, visit historical sites, taste authentic Vietnamese cuisine, and participate in local festivities and celebrations during the Christmas season.
2. Expert guidance: Local tour operators have extensive knowledge about the destinations and can provide expert guidance throughout your trip. They can offer insights into the local customs, history, and hidden gems, ensuring that you make the most of your time in Vietnam.
3. Safety and security: Local tour operators prioritize the safety and security of their guests. They have a good understanding of the local conditions and can ensure that you travel to safe areas and avoid any potential risks or scams. They also provide assistance in case of any emergencies or unforeseen circumstances.
4. Unique experiences: Local tours often offer unique experiences that are not easily accessible to independent travelers. Whether it’s exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations, participating in local cultural activities, or interacting with local communities, a local tour can provide you with memorable experiences that showcase the authentic side of Vietnam.
5. Time efficiency: With a local tour, you can make the most of your limited time during the Christmas holiday. Local guides can optimize your itinerary, ensuring that you visit the must-see attractions and experience the highlights of Vietnam, while also allowing for some free time to relax and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
As one of the top tour operators in Vietnam, AN Tours is offering some of the best tours in this Christmas 2023 time. Have a look at our page All Vietnam Tours or browse these:
Local Night Walking Food Tour – 100% No Tourist
3. Related Articles
Here are some other articles about Things to do in festival/ celebration days in Vietnam:
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