On the morning of February 17, 2026 (the first day of the Lunar New Year of the Horse), the ancient atmosphere of the Hue Imperial Citadel became bustling as it welcomed thousands of domestic and international visitors who came to "inaugurate" the new year. This is the time when the heritage of the ancient capital dons a dazzling appearance, vividly recreating the atmosphere of Tet celebrations of the Nguyen Dynasty.
From early morning, groups of visitors lined up in front of the Ngo Mon Gate, waiting for the moment the heritage site would open. On the first day of the new year, the Hue Imperial Citadel Conservation Center implemented a policy of offering free admission to Vietnamese tourists, creating favorable conditions for people to admire the historical and cultural values.
Recreating solemn royal court rituals.
The most noteworthy highlight at Ngo Mon Gate is the Changing of the Guard ceremony – a meticulously recreated military ritual from the feudal era. With costumes and props closely adhering to the original, the ceremony not only evokes a sense of nostalgia but also serves as a unique tourist attraction, helping visitors better understand life in the ancient imperial palace.
Continuing the solemn atmosphere, a cannon salute was also held, accompanied by the giving of New Year's gifts to the first international visitors. The resounding explosions served as a welcome to the new year, creating excitement among the tourists present at the scene.
Cultural colors and folk games
Besides the main ceremonies, the courtyard of the Thai Hoa Palace and the surrounding palaces are filled with the sounds of royal court music. Visitors have the opportunity to enjoy performances of traditional Hue music, including the Grand Music, Small Music, and Hue folk songs. The cultural experience also includes calligraphy demonstrations, giving auspicious calligraphy as gifts for the new year, and reenactments of typical Tet activities of the Nguyen dynasty.
In particular, traditional folk games such as "đổ xăm hường," "bài vụ," "thả thơ," and "đầu hồ" attracted a large number of young people and families. These activities are not only entertaining but also a way to preserve and spread Vietnamese folk cultural values to international friends.
Practical information for your spring travel itinerary.
Besides the Imperial Citadel, other historical sites such as the tombs of Gia Long, Minh Mang, Tu Duc, and Khai Dinh, and the Hue Royal Antiquities Museum also offer free entry to domestic tourists on the first day of the Lunar New Year. The weather in Hue during the first days of the year is quite ideal, with cool temperatures and gentle spring rain, perfect for outdoor sightseeing activities.
Mr. Hoang Viet Trung, Director of the Hue Imperial Citadel Conservation Center, said that cultural activities, traditional martial arts performances, and court art will be maintained throughout the Lunar New Year from the 1st to the 3rd day. Specifically, on the 2nd and 3rd days, lion and dragon dances and martial arts performances will be the next highlight to serve tourists visiting the Imperial Citadel during the spring festival.
Source: https://baolamdong.vn/hue-trai-nghiem-khong-khi-tet-hoang-cung-tai-dai-noi-ngay-dau-nam-moi-425131.html
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