Vietnamese Teacher’s Day: 5 Interesting Things to Know

1. Introduction – What is Vietnamese Teacher’s Day?

Have you ever wondered how Vietnam honors its teachers? Every year on November 20th, the country celebrates Vietnamese Teacher’s Day, a special occasion dedicated to expressing gratitude to educators.

The tradition traces back to 1957, when the International Federation of Free Teachers’ Unions (FISE), of which Vietnam was a member, designated November 20 as “International Teachers’ Day” to promote educational development and emphasize the rights and responsibilities of teachers. The first celebration in Vietnam took place in 1958 in the North.

After the country’s reunification, November 20 became a traditional day for the education sector, and on September 28, 1982, the Vietnamese government officially declared it Vietnamese Teacher’s Day. The first nationwide celebration under this official name was held on November 20, 1982, and it has since been a meaningful day to honor those who dedicate their lives to teaching. 

Even though it’s not a public holiday, schools nationwide organize ceremonies, performances, and gift-giving to honor teachers, showing deep respect beyond formal recognition.

2. How Vietnamese Celebrate Teacher’s Day

Common School Activities

During Vietnamese Teacher’s Day, schools are buzzing with activity. Students prepare handmade cards, bouquets of flowers, and small gifts to present to their teachers. Classrooms often host performances, including singing, dancing, or poetry readings, to express gratitude in a fun and creative way. Some schools organize award ceremonies to recognize outstanding teachers, making students and educators feel appreciated.

Community and Family Involvement

It’s not only students who participate. Parents sometimes join school celebrations, bringing gifts or helping organize events. Local businesses support the tradition by offering discounts on flowers, cards, or stationery items. These activities highlight that Vietnamese Teacher’s Day is more than just a school event — it’s a community-wide celebration.

Many students prefer giving small, meaningful gifts like handmade items or thoughtful letters rather than expensive presents. This focus on sincerity over material value reflects a unique cultural perspective that you might find inspiring.

3. Easy Gift Ideas and Saying Thank You

If you want to take part in Vietnamese Teacher’s Day as a foreigner, you might wonder, “What should I give my teacher?”. The good news is that gifts don’t have to be expensive. Thoughtful gestures go a long way. Here are 10 easy gift ideas for teachers:

1. Flowers (Bouquets or Single Stems)
   A classic choice. Flowers symbolize respect and appreciation. You can choose roses, lilies, or seasonal flowers. Presenting them with a smile shows warmth and sincerity.
   
2. Handmade Cards
   Writing a personal message in a card allows you to express gratitude directly. You can decorate it with drawings or stickers to make it more personal.
   
3. Personalized Stationery
   Pens, notebooks, or planners with the teacher’s name or a small message are practical and thoughtful. Teachers often appreciate gifts they can actually use in their daily work.
   
4. Books
   A book related to the teacher’s interests or educational resources is a meaningful gift. It shows that you know their hobbies or professional passion.
   
5. Local Treats or Snacks
   Packaged sweets, chocolates, or local delicacies make a tasty gift. You can also include small homemade treats if you enjoy cooking.
   
6. Coffee or Tea Sets
   Vietnam has a rich coffee culture. A nice coffee or tea set can be a practical and culturally relevant gift. It also gives the teacher a chance to relax and enjoy it.
   
7. Plants in Small Pots
   Miniature potted plants like succulents or fittonia are both decorative and long-lasting. They symbolize growth, care, and patience — qualities shared by both teachers and students.
   
8. Handmade Crafts or DIY Gifts
   Items like friendship bracelets, hand-painted bookmarks, or small handmade decorations carry a personal touch. Teachers appreciate the effort more than the monetary value.
   
9. Gift Cards / Vouchers
   If you’re unsure what to give, a small voucher for a bookstore, cafe, or stationery shop can be an excellent choice. It allows the teacher to pick something they truly like.
   
10. Personalized Mugs or Cups
    A mug with a meaningful quote, the teacher’s name, or a simple “Thank You” message is both practical and memorable.
    
11. Framed Photos or Inspirational Prints
    A photo of the class (if allowed) or a motivational quote in a small frame can decorate their desk or classroom.
    
12. Health or Wellness Gifts
    Small items like essential oils, scented candles, or hand creams can promote relaxation and show you care about their well-being.
    

Bonus Tip: Regardless of the gift, pairing it with a verbal thank you in Vietnamese makes it even more meaningful:

• “Cảm ơn thầy/cô” – “Thank you, teacher.”
  
• “Chúc thầy/cô sức khỏe và hạnh phúc” – “Wishing you health and happiness.”

4. Heartfelt Messages You Can Write in a Vietnamese Teacher’s Day Card

Writing a card for Vietnamese Teacher’s Day is a simple but meaningful way to show your appreciation. Here are 10 natural and heartfelt Vietnamese messages you can use:

1. “Cảm ơn thầy/cô đã luôn kiên nhẫn hướng dẫn và động viên em trong từng bài học. Nhờ thầy/cô, em học được nhiều điều mới và cảm thấy tự tin hơn mỗi ngày.”
   “Thank you for always patiently guiding and encouraging me in every lesson. Because of you, I’ve learned so much and feel more confident every day.”
   
2. “Chúc thầy/cô thật nhiều sức khỏe, luôn vui vẻ và hạnh phúc trong cuộc sống. Mong rằng mỗi ngày đi dạy của thầy/cô đều tràn ngập niềm vui và tiếng cười.”
   “Wishing you good health and endless happiness in life. I hope each day at school is filled joy and laughter.”
   
3. “Em cảm thấy thật may mắn khi được nhận được sự quan tâm, chỉ dạy tận tình từ thầy/cô. Cảm ơn thầy/cô vì tất cả những kiến thức và kinh nghiệm quý báu mà thầy/cô đã truyền đạt.”
   “I’m really lucky to have you as my teacher and to receive your attentive guidance. Thank you for all the knowledge and valuable experiences you’ve shared.”
   
4. “Cảm ơn thầy/cô đã luôn truyền cảm hứng và động lực để em cố gắng học tập. Sự nhiệt huyết và tình yêu nghề của thầy/cô giúp em tiến bộ hơn mỗi ngày.”
   “Thank you for always inspiring and motivating me to study. Your passion and love for teaching make me want to improve every day.”
   
5. “Chúc thầy/cô luôn tràn đầy năng lượng, niềm vui và sự sáng tạo trong công việc.”
   “Wishing you endless energy, joy, and creativity in your work.”
   
6. “Em biết ơn tất cả những gì thầy/cô đã dạy em, không chỉ kiến thức mà còn cách sống và suy nghĩ. Những bài học ấy sẽ theo em suốt quãng đường học tập và cả sau này.”
   “I’m grateful for everything you’ve taught me, not just knowledge but also ways of living and thinking. Those lessons will stay with me throughout my studies and beyond.”
   
7. “Chúc thầy/cô một ngày Nhà giáo Việt Nam thật ý nghĩa và dành được thật nhiều yêu thương từ học sinh và đồng nghiệp.”
   “Wishing you a meaningful Teachers’ Day, surrounded by the love of your students and colleagues.”
8. “Cảm ơn thầy/cô đã giúp em vượt qua những khó khăn trong quá trình học tập. Sự kiên nhẫn và động viên của thầy/cô luôn là nguồn động lực lớn đối với em.”
   “Thank you for helping me overcome difficulties in my studies. Your patience and encouragement are a great source of motivation.”
   
9. “Thầy/cô là nguồn cảm hứng lớn trong hành trình học tập của em. Mỗi lời dạy, mỗi bài học đều khiến em cảm thấy may mắn khi có một người thầy/cô tuyệt vời như vậy.”
   “You are a great source of inspiration in my learning journey. Every word you teach, every lesson, makes me feel lucky to have such a wonderful teacher.”
   
10. “Em hy vọng thầy/cô luôn hạnh phúc, khỏe mạnh và tiếp tục gặt hái nhiều thành công trong sự nghiệp. Cảm ơn thầy/cô vì tất cả những đóng góp thầm lặng và quý giá cho học sinh.”
    “I hope you are always happy and healthy, and continue to achieve great success in your career. Thank you for all your quiet and valuable contributions to your students.”

5. Tips for Foreigners to Participate

You might be wondering how you, as a foreigner, can join the celebration without unintentionally offending anyone. Here are some practical tips:

1. Observe and learn: Watch how local students present gifts or say thank you. You’ll notice polite gestures, bows, and appropriate phrases.
   
2. Keep it simple: A small flower or card and a heartfelt phrase like “Cảm ơn thầy/cô” can be very effective.
   
3. Respect hierarchy and age: Older teachers are treated with more formal respect. Use polite language and gestures when addressing them.
   
4. Participate in school events if invited: Joining a performance or attending a ceremony is a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture.

Even minimal participation from foreigners is highly appreciated. Vietnamese teachers value the effort and thoughtfulness behind the gesture, so don’t hesitate to take part. Engaging in these traditions can also help you practice your Vietnamese and better understand social norms.

6. Conclusion – Celebrate, Learn, and Connect with VLS

Vietnamese Teacher’s Day (20/11) is more than a celebration; it’s a window into Vietnamese culture, showing how much respect and gratitude are valued in everyday life. Whether you’re a student, an expat, or just learning Vietnamese, taking part in small gestures can help you connect meaningfully with teachers and locals alike.

At VLS (Vietnamese Language Studies), we believe learning Vietnamese goes beyond grammar and vocabulary — it’s about understanding culture and building relationships. Through our courses, you’ll learn not only the language but also the appropriate ways to express gratitude and appreciation, whether for a teacher or a friend. This 20/11, why not try using your new skills to say “Cảm ơn thầy/cô” like a local? Explore our courses at vlstudies.com and make your Vietnamese learning journey even more meaningful!