Vietnam during Christmas time

How Vietnamese People Celebrate Christmas

Christmas in Vietnam is a wonderful mix of cultural integration and local uniqueness. It has been incredibly popular in the incoming years. For some, it’s a time for religious reflection, and for others, it’s an excuse to enjoy festive lights, delicious food, and joyful gatherings.

People decorating the streets and different cafes, stores, in the spirit of Christmas, bringing such vibrant colours and vibe to the atmosphere. Most people going to different coffee shops that is decorated vibrantly to take pictures celebrating the season. On Hang Ma street, one of the most popular streets in Hanoi Old Town, selling numerous decorations, become the most visited place for Hanoian in the festive times.

Ho Chi Minh, the largest economic centre of Vietnam, is no exception when it comes to celebrating Christmas, even though the temperature remains somewhere around 30 degree Celsius, people are still going out and about for decorating and enjoy the season.

On social media, people often post pictures of themselves dressing up and standing next to the Christmas tree or any other decorations, celebrating the festive spirit. For Vietnamese people, any holiday is a holiday to celebrate.

A Non-Religious Festivity for Most

Vietnam followed mostly Buddhism with a mix of folk religions and a small but significant Christian minority. For Catholics, who make up around 7% of the population, Christmas is a sacred occasion. Churches are beautifully decorated, and Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve is an essential part of their celebrations.

For the rest of the population, Christmas is more about festive cheer than religious significance. It’s an opportunity to enjoy the holiday spirit with friends, family, and loved ones. Over the years, it has become a cultural celebration, especially among young people and urban communities.

St’ Joseph Church in Hanoi – the capital of Vietnam – is considered one of the best decorated church in the nation. It brings a sense of French architecture and combined with Vietnamese features, however, still remains the gothic style in the construction.

A Wonderland of Lights and Decorations

The Christmas season transforms Vietnam’s major cities into dazzling wonderlands.

Streets and Landmarks: Streets in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang come alive with twinkling lights, ornaments, and decorated Christmas trees.

Shopping Malls and Markets: Modern malls compete for the most extravagant holiday decor, while local markets offer everything from festive treats to ornaments.

Food: The Universal Celebration

No holiday in Vietnam is complete without food, and Christmas is no exception.

• Western Influence: In urban areas, many restaurants serve traditional Western Christmas dinner such as roasted turkey and Yule log, but the most common dish that people go to when it is cold is hotpot as it is warm, fulfilling, and such a family dish which everyone will gather round to eat together during the festive time.
• Street Treats: On Christmas Eve, street vendors sell popular snacks like roasted chestnuts, grilled corn, and sweet drinks, adding to the cosy holiday vibe.

Santa Claus and Gift-Giving

Gift-giving is not as widespread in Vietnam as it is in the West, but the tradition is catching on, especially in urban areas.

Ông già Noel: Santa Claus, known as “Ông già Noel” in Vietnamese, is a favourite figure among children. He often makes appearances at schools, malls, or community events, handing out small presents and spreading cheer.

Romantic Gestures: For young couples, Christmas has become a romantic holiday, with many exchanging thoughtful gifts and going on special dates to enjoy the festive atmosphere.

Christmas Eve: The Main Event

Unlike in Western cultures, where Christmas Day is the centerpiece, Christmas Eve holds more significance in Vietnam. The streets are bustling with life as families, friends, and couples come together to soak in the festive spirit.

• Many people attend church services, especially in predominantly Catholic areas.
• Families gather for meals and stroll through the city to admire the decorations.
• Couples and groups of friends enjoy street performances, music, and the joyful crowd.

The celebratory atmosphere on Christmas Eve is electric and continues well into the night.

I hope that this read gives you a glimpse of how other country celebrating one of the biggest holiday in the world, and I hope you enjoy this new piece of information as well!