Christmas in Vietnam: A blend of Western cheer and local charm

Welcome back to Words on the Street, where we explore the cultural trends that are shaping Vietnam. This week we look at how the Vietnamese have embraced Christmas, a celebration with strong Western roots.

In Hanoi, Christmas has become a youthful event that seamlessly blends Western customs with the warmth of the local people.

Christmas in Hanoi is a celebration of contrasts and connections, where global traditions meet local charm. From bustling cities filled with festive lights to serene moments in churches and cozy homes, the holiday has something for everyone.

A couple I know, Chaz and his wife, who are Americans, once told me they loved spending Christmas in Vietnam, mostly Hanoi. "The weather is just cool enough to feel festive but not freezing," Chaz said. "The city truly captures the Christmas spirit. We can travel and celebrate the biggest holiday of the year at the same time."

Vietnamese people have an extraordinary ability to adopt foreign holidays while remaining rooted in their own culture. Christmas is no exception. While it's not celebrated in the same religious context as in the West, people embrace the festivities in their own unique way, decorating their homes, exchanging gifts, and gathering with friends and family.

My friend Phuong's family has a tradition every Christmas of making mulled wine at home, enjoying it with a charcuterie board, and watching classic holiday movies together. It's a perfect marriage of Western traditions with something distinctly Vietnamese: warm, intimate, and family-oriented.

The spirit of Christmas is very much cherished by Christian communities, especially in Hanoi. My Korean buddy, who is also a devout Catholic, always spends Christmas Eve praying and watching the Nativity scene at St. Joseph's Cathedral. Even though she doesn't understand the language of the performance, which is in Vietnamese, she and her family appreciate the experience. "We feel welcomed and understood," she said, emphasizing how the warmth of the celebration transcends language barriers. This blend of solemnity and inclusiveness reflects how the holiday fits fluidly into personal and cultural contexts.

Christmas illustrates Vietnam's increasing openness to outside influences. Social media has been instrumental in this shift, allowing people to learn more about the history and traditions of the holiday than ever before. In addition to providing festive inspiration, such as curated charcuterie boards and chic holiday attire, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube also educate the public on the underlying meaning of the holiday.

This accessibility has empowered young people to celebrate with both style and substance, turning Christmas into a cultural showcase. Families now make sure that the holiday remains enjoyable and meaningful by fusing contemporary styles with traditional Vietnamese values.

"It's not just about having fun, it's about understanding the spirit of the holiday and celebrating it in a way that feels authentic," said one online participant. This sentiment strikes a chord with people of all ages as they find ways to make Christmas uniquely their own while staying connected to its roots.

Whether it's sitting around a decorated table, learning about nativity scenes, or simply soaking up the joyous ambiance, Christmas in Vietnam exemplifies the country's ability to embrace cultural exchange while maintaining its own identity.

For expats like Chaz, Vietnam offers an experience like no other, while for many others, Christmas celebrations in Vietnam and Hanoi are the perfect balance of tradition, warmth, and vibrancy.

During the Christmas season, businesses across Vietnam, especially the major cities of Hanoi, Danang, and Ho Chi Minh City, turn into holiday hubs. Malls, cafes, and even local shops take on the festive season by decorating their spaces, offering themed menus, and hosting events. It's not just about selling products; it's about creating memorable experiences for customers. Although these initiatives are mostly commercial in nature, they foster intercultural dialogue and a sense of community. Businesses are making Christmas accessible to all people, regardless of their religious beliefs, by fostering a joyful atmosphere.