
Fireworks over New Orleans East and the smell of pho (Vietnamese noodle soup) in the air: that’s Tet Fest at Mary Queen of Vietnam Church in New Orleans. Tết (Vietnamese Lunar New Year) is celebrated here over three days in the Village de L’Est neighborhood, a tradition the church started more than 35 years ago. The 2027 dates haven’t been announced yet.
What to expect
In 2026 it ran Friday through Sunday, February 20 to 22. Each night at 6 PM brings a dragon dance and fireworks, with live music and cultural performances filling the rest of the schedule.
Booths run by parish ministries serve pho, banh mi (Vietnamese sandwiches), spring rolls and other Vietnamese food, and kids get games and activities. Church leaders estimate at least 5,000 visitors per day, so pack your patience along with your appetite. Admission is free, but food and drinks are sold separately, so bring cash.
Good to know
- Last held: Friday to Sunday, February 20 to 22, 2026 (Fri 6 to 11 PM, Sat 10 AM to 11 PM, Sun 10 AM to 10 PM)
- Admission: free; food and drinks sold separately, so bring cash
- Venue: Mary Queen of Vietnam Church, 14011 Dwyer Blvd., New Orleans, LA 70129
- Organizer: Mary Queen of Vietnam Church
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Tet Fest in New Orleans in 2027?
The 2027 dates haven’t been announced yet. It last ran Friday to Sunday, February 20 to 22, 2026, as the church’s annual three-day celebration.
Is Tet Fest at Mary Queen of Vietnam Church free?
Yes, admission is free. Food and drinks are sold separately, so bring cash.
What happens at Tet Fest in New Orleans?
Expect a nightly dragon dance and fireworks at 6 PM, live music, cultural performances, children’s games and booths serving pho, banh mi, spring rolls and other Vietnamese food.
Source: Celebrate Vietnamese New Year at Tet Fest in New Orleans (Yahoo / local news), Tet Fest brings Lunar New Year celebration to New Orleans East (FOX 8)
How Do I Get to Mary Queen of Vietnam Church?
Mary Queen of Vietnam Church is at 14011 Dwyer Blvd., New Orleans, LA 70129. Use the directions and parking links on this page to plan your trip from where you are.
How to Get Here
The organizer hasn't published transit details yet. Tap Transit directions for live routes and times to Mary Queen of Vietnam Church.
Where to Park
Parking near big Lunar New Year events fills early and some streets close. Arrive early, or take transit if you can.
Map
Mary Queen of Vietnam Church, 14011 Dwyer Blvd., New Orleans, LA 70129
Where to stay near Mary Queen of Vietnam Church
Coming from out of town? See hotels and rentals close to Mary Queen of Vietnam Church on one map. Add your dates on the map to see prices.
Hotel map by Stay22. If you book through it, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. How we earn money