Lucky money for the kids, lion dancers for everyone: the Tet Vietnamese New Year Festival in Raleigh, North Carolina, welcomes Tết (Vietnamese Lunar New Year) at Dorton Arena. The Vietnamese American Association of Raleigh has held it every year for more than two decades. The 2027 dates haven’t been announced yet.
What to expect
The 2026 festival took place on Sunday, January 18, from 10 AM to 6:30 PM. It typically features a Tết parade and ceremony, a lion dance, cultural performances and martial arts demonstrations.
Kids can collect lucky money and play games, and there’s traditional Vietnamese food to keep you fueled. Scholarships and a service and leadership award are presented during the day. The 2024 edition, held Sunday, January 21, 2024, drew more than 3,500 people, so you won’t be celebrating alone.
Good to know
- Last held: Sunday, January 18, 2026, 10 AM to 6:30 PM
- Admission: $20 general; children under 7 and adults over 75 get in free
- Venue: Dorton Arena, North Carolina State Fairgrounds, 1025 Blue Ridge Road, Raleigh, NC
- Organizer: Vietnamese American Association of Raleigh
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Tet Vietnamese New Year Festival in Raleigh in 2027?
The 2027 date hasn’t been announced yet. It was last held Sunday, January 18, 2026, and the 2024 festival was on Sunday, January 21.
Is the Raleigh Tet festival free?
General admission was $20, while children under 7 and adults over 75 got in free.
What happens at the Tet Vietnamese New Year Festival in Raleigh?
It typically features a Tết parade and ceremony, a lion dance, cultural performances, martial arts demonstrations, lucky money, children’s games and traditional Vietnamese food.
Source: Tet Vietnamese New Year Festival (Triangle on the Cheap), Vietnamese New Year celebration draws thousands to Dorton Arena (ABC11)
How Do I Get to Dorton Arena, North Carolina State Fairgrounds?
Dorton Arena, North Carolina State Fairgrounds is at 1025 Blue Ridge Road, Raleigh, NC. 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 Dorton Arena, North Carolina State Fairgrounds.
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
Dorton Arena, North Carolina State Fairgrounds, 1025 Blue Ridge Road, Raleigh, NC
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