Vietnam proposes adding new public holiday for Culture Day

Vietnam's Ministry of Home Affairs is seeking public feedback on a draft law that proposes adding a new public holiday: Vietnam Culture Day, celebrated annually on November 24. If enacted, this would grant workers a paid day off, increasing the total number of national holidays from the current 11 to 12.

The proposal stems from Resolution No. 80 of the Politburo, which designated November 24 as Vietnam Culture Day. This initiative was further solidified by Resolution 28, passed by the National Assembly during its first session, which officially recognized the date. The Ministry of Home Affairs believes that establishing this as a paid holiday will significantly contribute to people's cultural enrichment, inspire creativity among artists, and foster a more widespread civilized lifestyle across society.

The draft law also includes provisions for the Prime Minister to decide the specific holiday schedule annually based on practical conditions, with the Minister of Home Affairs responsible for announcing the official calendar by December 31 of the preceding year. This decentralization aims for uniform application across all government agencies, public service units, and political organizations.

Currently, Vietnamese workers are entitled to 11 paid holidays per year, including New Year's Day, Lunar New Year (five days), Reunification Day (April 30), International Workers' Day (May 1), National Day (September 2, two days), and the Hung Kings' Commemoration Day. The addition of Vietnam Culture Day in 2026 would mark a notable expansion of public holidays, reflecting a broader national focus on cultural development. Additionally, the Vietnam General Confederation of Labour has proposed extending the National Day holiday to create a longer break.

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The Ministry of Home Affairs believes that the regulation of this as a paid holiday will contribute to enhancing people's cultural enjoyment, encouraging artists to create, and spreading a civilized lifestyle throughout society.