From the first days of the Lunar New Year (Tet), hundreds of thousands of pilgrims and visitors have traveled to major heritage and spiritual sites across the country.

This year’s highlight is improved management, stronger use of digital technology, enhanced security measures, environmental protection efforts and better traffic control, all aimed at creating a safer, more organised and culturally rich festival environment.

At the Yen Tu complex in Quang Ninh province, around 130,000 pilgrims visited during the first five days of Tet. Authorities have implemented traffic plans and public security measures in anticipation of rising visitor numbers. Notably, from February 20 through the end of 2026, parking at Ha Kieu station is free of charge.

In addition, Quang Ninh has waived entrance fees to Yen Tu until December 31, 2028 to promote tourism and expand global awareness of the heritage site associated with the Truc Lam Zen tradition.

In northern Bac Ninh province, often called Vietnam’s “land of festivals,” celebrations began as early as the third day of Tet. The peony viewing festival at Phat Tich Pagoda attracted thousands of visitors. The site is home to a national treasure - a Ly Dynasty stone statue of Amitabha Buddha.

Meanwhile, the Dong Ky Firecracker Festival took place in a festive yet orderly atmosphere, with elaborate wooden firecrackers paraded through the village.

In Ninh Binh province, the spring opening ceremony at Bai Dinh Pagoda drew large crowds and will continue through the third lunar month. Security surveillance systems, traffic regulation and service management have been strengthened.

Similar measures have been applied at the Tam Chuc tourism complex as the province links festival organisation with long-term cultural tourism and creative economy development.

In Hanoi, major festivals reopened from the sixth day of Tet. The Huong Pagoda complex welcomed nearly 140,000 visitors in the first five days of the Lunar New Year, marking a significant increase year on year. Authorities have expanded online ticketing, QR code entry systems and removed inappropriate business stalls to restore the landscape.

Traditional performances also enlivened the Co Loa site, while the Giong Festival at Soc Temple was conducted solemnly with improved crowd management.

Spring festivals in Vietnam are not only a time for leisure travel but also reflect deep-rooted cultural and spiritual traditions. They honour national heroes and ancestors while strengthening community bonds.

With a strong emphasis on civility, awareness and sustainability, the 2026 Spring Festival season is gradually shaping a modern, safe and culturally authentic image that balances heritage preservation with tourism development and international integration.

Tens of thousands attend Ba Vang Pagoda Spring Festival 2026

VOV.VN - Tens of thousands of monks, nuns, Buddhists and visitors gathered at Ba Vang Pagoda in Quang Ninh province on February 24 to attend the Spring Festival 2026 marking the Year of the Horse.