Vietnam: Tet festival celebrated nationwide February 16-20

Event

Large crowds are expected in cities and tourist hotspots across Vietnam during Tet (Lunar New Year) festivities beginning on Friday, February 16, and lasting until Tuesday, February 20. According to local sources, demand for air travel is expected to increase by 20 percent during the holiday; railroads and bus companies have also added additional services to meet increased demand. An increased security presence is to be anticipated in major cities across the country as well as widespread transportation disruptions and extreme traffic congestion.

Context

Tet, also known as the Vietnamese Lunar New Year, is the most widely-celebrated holiday in Vietnamese culture.

Advice

Individuals present in Vietnam should remain alert, follow all instructions issued by authorities, and avoid particularly crowded areas, due in part to the risk of stampedes associated with extremely crowded conditions. Remain on guard against petty crime, the risk of which typically rises in large crowds. In addition, individuals should anticipate transportation disruptions and plan ahead for severe congestion and delays.