Saigon in Bloom: A Guide to HCMC’s Most Iconic Tet Flower Markets

Nothing signals the arrival of the Lunar New Year in Saigon quite like the explosion of colors across its flower markets. As Tet approaches, the city transforms into a massive garden, with millions of blossoms—from the iconic yellow apricot (Hoa Mai) to vibrant marigolds and orchids—filling the air with the scent of spring.

For locals, visiting these markets is more than just shopping; it is a cherished ritual to wash away the old year and invite vitality, luck, and prosperity into the home. Whether you are looking for the nostalgic charm of a riverside market or the bustling energy of a city park, Ho Chi Minh City offers a floral experience for everyone!

Join the crowds, pick your favorite bloom, and capture the ultimate “Tet vibe” in the heart of the South!

Information

• Date:  February 2 – February 22, 2026

• Time: All day

• Featured Location: Tao Dan Park, 23/9 Park, Ben Binh Dong Floating Market

Event Summary

Best Places to Experience Tet Flowers

1.  Park 23/9 & Tao Dan Park (Central Choice)

• Location: District 1 (near Ben Thanh Market)
• The heart of downtown festivities. Park 23/9 hosts thousands of yellow apricot trees and marigolds, while Tao Dan Park is famous for its elaborate Spring Flower Festival featuring rare orchids and bonsai.

2. Ben Binh Dong (Cultural Choice)

• Location: Ben Binh Dong Road, Wards 13 & 14, District 8.
• Best for those who want to see the “Floating” side of Saigon. It’s a photographer’s paradise, especially when viewed from the bridges.

3.  Gia Dinh Park (Local Favorite)

• Location: Go Vap District
• One of the largest markets in the city, known for having a massive variety of flowers from the Mekong Delta at very competitive prices.

4. Phu My Hung Flower Fair (Modern Experience)

• Location: District 7 (The Crescent Area)
• Offers a more upscale environment with beautiful mini-landscapes, themed walkways, and modern decorations perfect for “check-in” photos.

Small Tips 

• ⏰Best Time:  Visit in the early morning for the freshest blooms, or after sunset for the festive lights and cooler weather.

• 📸 Photography: Wear an Ao Dai! These markets provide the most authentic backdrop for traditional Tet photos.

• 🧧 Cash is King: While some vendors might accept transfers, small bills are best for quick transactions and street food

• 🚶 Getting There: Traffic near the markets (especially District 1 and District 8) will be heavy. Use a GrabBike or walk from nearby points to avoid getting stuck 

Map & Directions

📍 Tao Dan Park: View on Google Maps

📍 23/9 Park: View on Google Maps

📍 Le Van Tam Park: View on Google Maps

📍 Gia Dinh Park: View on Google Maps

📍 Ben Binh Dong (Floating Market): View on Google Maps

💡 Fun Fact: Unlike the North which favors the pink peach blossom (Hoa Dao), the South embraces the yellow Hoa Mai. Its five petals are said to represent the five blessings: longevity, wealth, peace, virtue, and health

Southern people believe that if your Hoa Mai (Yellow Apricot) blooms exactly on the first day of Tet, your family will have a year of incredible wealth and luck!