Thousands gathered at Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc Square by Hanoi’s Hoan Kiem Lake to watch music performances and wait for the fireworks.
Hoan Kiem Lake
Makeshift parking lots sprang up around central Hanoi on the evening of December 31, charging between VND 50,000 and VND 100,000 per motorbike. Despite the steep fees, many visitors were willing to pay to avoid long walks.
A family of 20 arrived early at Hoan Kiem Lake with mats, food and warm clothing to secure a good spot to watch the fireworks.
A foreign woman wearing a traditional long dress or ao dai and conical hat joined the crowds in welcoming the New Year in Hanoi.
Cafes offering prime views of Hoan Kiem Lake were fully booked as customers booked tables in advance to watch the fireworks. (Photo: Tran Thanh Cong)
Streams of people waiting for the fireworks at My Dinh National Stadium in Hanoi
Nguyen Hue pedestrian street in Ho Chi Minh City was packed with people, including many foreign visitors, waiting to celebrate the New Year.
At Saigon Riverside Park, thousands spread out on mats to enjoy music performances ahead of midnight.
In Dalat, art and music shows were held at Lam Vien Square to mark the New Year.
Meanwhile, in Can Tho, areas around Song Hau Park and Hoa Binh Avenue were jammed with people gathering for the celebrations.
In Quang Ninh province, crowds gathered at an outdoor stage by Halong Bay to watch the New Year 2026 countdown programme.
In Hoa Lu, Ninh Binh
At 2/4 Square in Nha Trang
