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New Year’s Eve in Ho Chi Minh City is always vibrant with spectacular countdown celebrations, but not everyone wants to immerse themselves in crowded public spaces. If you’re planning to welcome the 2026 Ho Chi Minh City Countdown and prefer a more relaxed experience, the city still offers plenty of comfortable, easily accessible options—perfect for both tourists and business travelers. This article suggests gentle destinations where you can enjoy the transition to the new year in your own way.
Every year-end, popular Saigon countdown spots such as Nguyen Hue Walking Street, Bach Dang Wharf, Dam Sen Cultural Park, and the Landmark 81 area attract large crowds of locals and visitors alike. These areas typically host outdoor stages, live music performances, and fireworks displays from midnight to 12:15 AM on February 17, 2026.
The crowds gather thanks to their central locations, great vantage points, and clear views of the fireworks. For first-timers, it’s a chance to fully immerse in the city’s unique blend of music, light, and anticipation as Ho Chi Minh City welcomes the new year.
However, if you prefer open space, flexibility, or want to avoid moving with the massive crowds, consider the gentler alternatives below.
The Ho Chi Minh City water puppet show runs from 18:30 to 19:15, designed as a concise program showcasing traditional water puppetry.
The audience watches Vietnamese folk tales come alive through the movements of puppets, the rhythms of drums and monochord, and narration from artists behind the stage. Performances such as fishing, dragon dancing, and village festivals flow seamlessly, offering insight into traditional Vietnamese life.
The short duration makes it easy for guests to plan, especially those seeking a Vietnamese cultural experience without taking up too much time. It’s an excellent way to start New Year’s Eve with meaningful activity.
Many guests now prefer to avoid peak times and enjoy a slow, cozy dinner before the new year begins.
Among the options, Manja Manja Restaurant is an ideal place to savor familiar Vietnamese dishes refined in a well-prepared, intimate, and private atmosphere. The Tet ambiance is thoughtfully curated so even travelers away from home can feel the festive warmth.
If you want to revisit the flavors of home and traditional Tet, the Vietnamese Delights Buffet Dinner is a must-visit. The menu highlights regional specialties, and engaging activities like lucky envelope picking or conical hat painting for kids create a wonderful opportunity for family togetherness.
Meanwhile, if you want to indulge in a more upscale dinner, the International & Seafood Buffet will delight you with fresh seafood and complimentary lobster for every guest, offering a premium, diverse dining experience for the start of the new year.
A dinner cruise is a great choice for those who want to enjoy New Year’s Eve in an airy setting while maintaining privacy. As the boat departs, you’ll witness the brilliant city skyline lighting up the year’s end. Dinner is served right on deck, making for a gentle evening before midnight.
Some journeys feature live music or art performances—enough to keep the atmosphere lively without being overwhelming. Durations range from one to three hours, ideal for guests with tight schedules or those who want to end the night with a peaceful river experience.
You might consider cruise options like Elite of Saigon, Saigon Princess, or Icon Saigon for a unique New Year’s celebration on the water.
Instead of joining the countdown crowds, many guests prefer to spend New Year’s Eve at a quieter lounge or sky bar. These venues often feature gentle live music, perfect for conversation or simply watching the city lights come on.
Many are located on higher floors, so you can still catch the fireworks without braving the city center crowds. The drink menu is carefully crafted, serving both cocktails and non-alcoholic options. The atmosphere is elegant—suitable for business travelers and international guests alike.
Consider Zion Sky Lounge & Dining, Chill SkyBar & Dining, or Aqua Sky Bar for a serene evening.
New Year’s Eve in Ho Chi Minh City is always bustling, with large crowds heading downtown, which can slow traffic and cause street restrictions at night. After midnight, ride-hailing services are often harder to book due to increased demand. For this reason, choosing accommodation with a convenient location makes welcoming the new year more comfortable and less stressful, especially for those with early flights or returning to work after Tet.
Holiday Inn & Suites Saigon Airport is an excellent choice, thanks to its location near Tan Son Nhat Airport and easy connections to main routes into the city center. The quiet, comfortable setting and dependable service suit both relaxation and work preparation, ensuring a fulfilling, proactive New Year’s Eve for travelers.