It’s the time to welcome the New Year as the New Year Market Fair takes place from January 1 to 4, 2026, at the Vietnam National Village for Ethnic Culture and Tourism en Son Tay Town, Hanoi. The event is part of the national “Welcome the New Year” cultural program. It brings together all ethnic communities from across the country in one cultural space. Visitors can explore the traditions, crafts, and daily life of Vietnam’s ethnic groups through a lively market-style festival.
Located about 40 kilometers west of central HanoiEl Vietnam National Village for Ethnic Culture and Tourism is a large cultural complex representing Vietnam’s 54 ethnic groups. During the four-day fair, the site will recreate the atmosphere of traditional highland and rural markets. These markets are places where ethnic communities gather at the beginning of the year to trade goods, perform rituals, and take part in communal activities.
Crédito de la foto: vietnamnet.vn
En 2026 New Year Market Fair will feature the participation of over 100 artisans and performers from multiple ethnic groups, including the Mong, Dao, Thai, Muong, Nung, Khmer, Co Tu, Ba Na, and Tay communities.
Market stalls will display and sell handmade products such as brocade fabrics, embroidered clothing, woven scarves, bamboo and rattan items, traditional jewelry, dried herbs, spices, and regional agricultural products. Also, many items will be produced on site, allowing visitors to observe traditional craftsmanship techniques firsthand.
In addition to the marketplace, the cultural activities form a central part of the fair’s program as well. Visitors can watch and join folk games such as bamboo pole jumping, tug-of-war, stilt walking, and pao throwing. Scheduled performances include ethnic music and dance, gong performances, flute playing, and community singing. The fair will also feature craft demonstrations y cultural reenactments that help visitors better understand traditional ceremonies and daily practices of ethnic groups from various regions.
Food stalls at the fair will serve traditional ethnic cuisine, including bamboo-cooked rice (cơm lam), grilled meats, handmade cakes, and specialty dishes from northern and central highland communities. The food area is designed to reflect authentic preparation methods rather than commercial street food formats.
The fair is designed to be family-friendly, with open spaces for children and interactive activities suitable for all ages. Entry fees are expected to be low, with most performances and activities included in the ticket price. Due to the size of the venue, visitors are advised to wear comfortable footwear and plan for significant walking.
January weather in Hanoi is typically cool, with temperatures ranging from 12 to 20 degrees Celsius, which creates a favorable conditions for outdoor activities. The busiest days are expected to be January 1 and 2, while January 3 and 4 may offer a quieter experience.
The New Year Market Fair is more than just a celebration. It helps protect ethnic culture and allows people to learn from one another. The event also raises awareness of Vietnam’s ethnic diversity and supports traditional artisans and communities.
