As the lunar year in the calendar turns, the people of South Asia welcome the beginning of the year. The streets turn red and golden from the decoration. Are you wondering when the Lunar New Year is celebrated in South Asia? The Lunar New Year in South Asia begins on 17 February 2026, and it will last till 5th of February 2027. You might be thinking that it is a one-day festival. But, it’s not it lasts for 16 days, where the families follow the traditions that are passed down over the generations, like travelling, meeting other relatives, eating together, and many other family-friendly activities.
Why is 2026 Called the Year of the Horse?
It is said to be the year of the horse. It is because the horse is considered one of the most powerful animals in history. Additionally, the horse represents energy, enthusiasm, motion, and freedom. Apart from this, 2026 is the year of the fire horse because this year, there will be economic growth.
Tet Nguyen Dan in Vietnam
The Lunar New Year celebration is done in Vietnam as Tet Nguyen Dan. In your Vietnam tour package, don’t miss this festival and celebrate the first morning of the new year. Celebrate the arrival of spring and the new farming season. Read below to know how Tet is celebrated in Vietnam.
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Key Highlights of Tet Festival
- Family reunions
- Ancestor worship
- Traditional food preparation
- Fireworks and cultural dances
Preparation
Indulge in the preparation of Lunar New Year celebrations with locals. Watch the decorations all over the place. Banners with happy new year written on them make the festive atmosphere and welcome the travellers to enjoy one of the biggest festivals.
Ancient Worship
The locals participate in it and offer flowers, fruits, candies, and many other things to honour the ancients and invite their spirits to join them in the celebrations. Join a family and witness this unique thing, and it is also said that the ancestors are present on this day to bless the families. So the light and incense sticks must keep on during these days.
Family Reunion
During the Lunar New Year in South Asia, the family comes together and shares meals to strengthen the bond. Share their time and know more about each other. Moreover, if you are with your family, you can also do the same. Enjoy the activities and spend quality time with your family.
Popular Fiestas
Taste the popular dishes that are made at this festival. The iconic dishes like Banh Chung, which is made of sticky rice and Banh Tet, a square-shaped rice cake. Moreover, these dishes are wrapped in banana leaves and represent the earth and sky. It takes almost a night to get prepared.
Rituals
Enjoy the colourful, sparkling fireworks in the sky. It is a way to say goodbye to the last year and welcome the new one. Moreover, the sound of the fireworks will scare away the evil spirits. Receive an envelope from the elder ones which has money in it, symbolising blessings and health. End your day by offering good wishes to the elders.
Festivities
Lunar New Year in South Asia is not limited to family reunions; it is more than that. Celebrate this celebration by socialising with others and enjoying the cultural dance performances, such as lion dances, traditional dragon dances, and games.
Singapore: Tradition in a Modern City
The Lunar New Year celebrations in Singapore are more than an old tradition. If you are on your Singapore tour package from UAE, then refer to the ideas given below to celebrate the same:
Key Highlights of Lunar Year in Singapore
- Chinatown is adorned with vibrant lanterns
- River Hongbao festival and fireworks
- Lion and dragon dance performances
- Family reunions and red envelopes
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Decoration
Watch the beautiful decor that will take place in Chinatown. The streets will be lit up by the colourful lights. Moreover, buy the traditional snacks and seasonal favourites from the festive fair. Moreover, attend the countdown party at the Kreta Ayer Square. The evening will be full of live performances, music, and festivities.
River Hangbao
Soak up the festival atmosphere during the Lunar New Year celebrations. Various programs will be held to make your day memorable and more dynamic. This year, there will be 14 lanterns and the electrifying fireworks that will light up the night and make it vibrant. Apart from this, there will be several nighttime thematic performances that will take place, and you can also enjoy the amusement rides with your family and friends.
Shopping Malls
Indulge in the festive charm and enjoy the huge discounts during this time. There are Insta-worthy spots where you can take your pictures. Apart from this, shopping malls are the best place where your kids can enjoy. Enjoy the festive spaces at every mall you visit during this time.
Temples
Wondering where to celebrate the Lunar New Year in Singapore? Then, there is nothing better than visiting the temples on such auspicious occasions. Take the blessing of the good and expect your new year to be full of peace, positivity, and good fortune. Visit the Buddha Tooth Relic temple, where every corner is filled with harmony.
Aspect | Vietnam (Tet) | Singapore |
Focus | Family & ancestry | Public festivities |
Food | Banh Chung, Banh Tet | Festive snacks |
Atmosphere | Traditional & spiritual | Modern & vibrant |
Final Thoughts
The Lunar New Year festival is a huge and important celebration. By participating in these festivals, you will get to know more about the place and its traditions. Sometimes, just visiting the countries is not important. Knowing more about it and satisfying your soul is more important. If you also want to participate in such unique festivals, then book your tour with Travel Saga Tourism.
