New Year activities in and around Hanoi

Countdown festivals

People come together to celebrate the New Year in Hanoi. Photo by VnExpress/Giang Huy

This annual festival kicks off at 7:30 p.m. on Dec. 31 at August Revolution Square. This year’s program showcases local artists, and the celebration is marked by a dynamic four-sided stage with synchronized lighting.

For those in the Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc Square area, there is a countdown music party titled "Living Your Best Life" around Hoan Kiem Lake, starting at 8:30 p.m. on Dec. 31.

Several 5-star hotels are hosting exclusive New Year's Eve celebrations. Pan Pacific Hanoi (Summit bar on the 20th floor), Metropole Hanoi (Bamboo bar in the swimming pool area), and L7 West Lake Hanoi by Lotte (Hedonist Bar) are among the upscale venues offering parties and ceremonies.

Flower festival at Thong Nhat Park

Flower pots at Thong Nhat Park in Hanoi. Photo courtesy of the Hanoi Flower Land Festival organizers

"Hanoi Flower Land" Festival at Thong Nhat Park is ongoing from Christmas until Jan. 1, 2024.

The festival gathers flowers from various regions such as Sa Dec City in the Mekong Delta and Da Lat City in the Central Highlands, and imported flowers like lilies, daisies, and hydrangeas. Besides observing the flowers, visitors can take part in activities such as releasing lanterns, learning stories about flowers, flower parades, and enjoying food, drinks, and balloon releases.

The entrance fee is VND60,000 ($2.40) on weekdays and VND75,000 ($3) on weekends, with free admission for children under 1.2 meters.

Hot mineral bath retreats

Bathing spot at Serena Resort Kim Boi in Hoa Binh Province. Photo courtesy of Serena Resort Kim Boi

A day trip or a 2-day and 1-night getaway to resorts offering hot mineral baths is well-suited for the current cold weather in the north.

According to traditional medicine, mineral baths contribute to improved blood circulation, alleviating bone and joint pain, enhancing skin appearance, and providing mental comfort. Hot mineral baths are suitable for visitors of all ages.

Beyond the mineral baths, these destinations often feature additional amenities, including dining, massage services, and accommodation options.

Consider exploring these recommended locations: Yoko Onsen Quang Hanh in Quang Ninh Province, Serena Resort Kim Boi in Hoa Binh Province, Ohayo Onsen & Spa in Phu Tho Province, and Satoyama Village in Hoa Binh Province.

Camping in Hanoi’s suburbs

Pre-set tents at Blue Valley Cafe & Bistro. Photo courtesy of Blue Valley Cafe & Bistro

About 40 kilometers from Hanoi's center, Soc Son District is a great spot for young groups or families seeking camping and resort experiences during weekends or holidays.

Camping in Soc Son comes in self-sufficient forms or areas with ready-made camps. Some places, while not exclusively for camping, offer green spaces, wooden houses, or pre-set tents on hillside locations, complete with private restaurants and cafes.

Recommended spots include the Ham Lon Mountain area (near Ham Lon Lake and in the pine forest), Dong Do Lake, Chom Nui Lake, or places with pre-set tents like Thien Phu Lam, Ban Rom ecological area, Llum Hill, or Blue Valley Cafe & Bistro which offers camping combined with BBQ and acoustic music nights.

Short trips

Boats float between tall rock formations at Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex. Photo by VnExpress/James Cao

Tam Dao District in Vinh Phuc Province, Cat Ba Island in Hai Phong City, and Ninh Binh Province are three nearby destinations from Hanoi, making them convenient for a 2-day-1-night trip. It takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours to reach these locations.

Tam Dao features a refreshing climate and a variety of delectable dishes. Ninh Binh is home to numerous ecotourism spots like Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex, Tam Coc (Three grottoes), Mua Cave, Cuc Phuong National Park, along with various cultural events and traditional festivals. Cat Ba, usually a summer hotspot, becomes serene in winter, making it ideal for excursions or trekking in the national park.