Vietnam TravelExplore the Unique Customs of Vietnamese New Year

Ever wondered about the colorful and vibrant traditions of Vietnamese New Year, known as Tết? This celebration is not just a public holiday; it’s a deep dive into the heart of Vietnamese culture, replete with customs, foods, and activities that vary significantly from the global New Year festivities. Let’s explore the unique aspects of Tết and discover how this festival can inspire and enrich your understanding of Vietnamese heritage. With every firecracker burst and every shared meal, Tết binds the Vietnamese people not just to each other but also to their ancestors. It’s a period marked not only by celebration but also by profound cultural reflection and renewal. As you read on, you’ll find that Tết is more than a festival; it’s a vibrant testament to Vietnam’s rich historical tapestry and communal spirit.

photo: Hưng Nguyễn

Echoes of Ancestors: Preparing for the New Year

Tết, or Vietnamese Lunar New Year, marks the arrival of spring based on the lunar calendar, and it’s a time when families reunite and honor their ancestors. The preparation begins weeks in advance, with people cleaning their homes to rid them of bad luck and making elaborate offerings to welcome the new year. This meticulous cleaning is believed to sweep away the bad fortunes of the old year, allowing the new year to begin on a clean slate. Ancestors are revered during Tết through the practice of placing food and money offerings on family altars, which is thought to bring good luck and prosperity in the coming year. These traditions are imbued with the teachings of Confucianism, emphasizing filial piety and respect for one’s ancestors. Streets and homes are decorated with red banners and couplets, red being a symbol of good luck and happiness in Vietnamese culture. The atmosphere is one of joy and reverence, illustrating the dual character of this deeply significant time.

Festive Flourish: Tết Decorations and Symbolism

During Tết, homes and streets are adorned with vibrant decorations—most notably peach blossoms in the north and apricot blossoms in the south, symbolizing life and good health. Red envelopes, or ‘lì xì’, containing money are given for luck and prosperity. These envelopes are typically given to children and elderly family members as a symbol of transferring fortune and blessings. It’s also common to see calligraphy hangings, which are believed to bring good luck and happiness to the household. In the bustling markets, artisans sell handcrafted items and calligraphic scrolls, often busy with customers looking to bring a piece of this luck into their homes. The use of fireworks and firecrackers, historically used to scare away evil spirits, fills the air with noise and excitement, further enhancing the festive atmosphere. These visual and auditory symbols serve as reminders of the joyous and protective spirit of the season.

A Feast of Traditions: Tết Culinary Delights

photo: Huy

No Tết celebration would be complete without its traditional dishes, each brimming with symbolism. Bánh chưng (square sticky rice cake) and bánh tét (cylindrical sticky rice cake) are staples, representing the earth and the sky. These foods are not just meals but a bridge to the past, crafted according to recipes that span generations. The making of bánh chưng and bánh tét is a time-consuming process involving the careful selection of ingredients, which are then wrapped in banana leaves and cooked for up to twelve hours. The preparation of these cakes is often a communal activity that strengthens family bonds and connects the community. Aside from these, a variety of meats, candied fruits, and nuts are also served, each selected for their symbolic meanings; for instance, watermelon seeds symbolize fertility, and candies represent sweetness and prosperity for the new year. The act of sharing these foods among family and friends is not only a celebration of the new year but also an act of reaffirming social ties.

Joyful Reunions: Games and Festivities During Tết

Tết is also a time for joy and recreation. Traditional games like bầu cua cá cọp (a Vietnamese gambling game) and đánh cờ (chess) are played among families, fostering bonding and laughter. These games are integral to the festive atmosphere, providing a glimpse into the playful side of Vietnamese culture. Bầu cua cá cọp is especially popular, involving a dice game where players place bets on which pictures—representing different animals—will appear. This game, like many Tết traditions, has roots that trace back centuries and reflects the agricultural society from which it originated. Children also engage in various forms of traditional entertainment such as lion dances and tug-of-war, making Tết a truly family-oriented festival. These activities not only keep the cultural heritage alive but also provide an opportunity for the younger generation to learn about their roots in an engaging and interactive way.

Homecoming Heart: Community and Family Gatherings at Tết

photo: Taan Huyn

Central to Tết is the concept of family and community. It’s a time when many Vietnamese return to their ancestral homes, often undertaking long journeys. This return is not merely a physical one but a symbolic gesture that reinforces the familial bonds and the importance of one’s heritage. It is during Tết that many families also visit the graves of their ancestors to clean and decorate them, a practice known as “tảo mộ.” This act of remembrance respects the deceased and is considered a critical duty of the living. The gatherings are characterized by warmth and generosity, with open invitations for friends and even strangers to join in the feasts and celebrations. Such inclusivity not only strengthens community bonds but also ensures that no one feels isolated during this significant time. The communal aspect of Tết illustrates the Vietnamese philosophy of “eat together, sit together,” which emphasizes the value of sharing and unity.

Market Melodies: The Bustling Atmosphere of Tết Markets

As Tết approaches, markets across Vietnam transform into hubs of activity. These markets are not just shopping destinations but a sensory overload of sights, sounds, and smells. From Hanoi’s vibrant Hàng Mã Street to Ho Chi Minh City’s bustling Bến Thành Market, these places are essential for picking up new year supplies and soaking in the festive spirit. The markets are alive with vendors selling everything from festive foods to traditional garments and decorative items. It is here that one can observe the dynamic interplay of commerce and culture, where transactions are not merely economic but also social exchanges. The chatter, the bartering, and the array of colors create a tapestry that is as rich visually as it is culturally. For many, visiting these markets is a cherished ritual that marks the commencement of the new year celebrations.

Plan your itinerary by delving into the specifics of each Vietnam region with our Vietnam travel regions breakdown.

New Year Reflections: Contemplative Closures to Tết Celebrations

As the celebrations wind down, Tết is also a time for reflection and renewal. It’s a moment to ponder the year that has passed and set intentions for the new year. This contemplative aspect of Tết underscores its cultural depth and the personal significance it holds for many Vietnamese people. The first visitor to a home after Tết is considered the bearer of that year’s fortune, a belief that highlights the importance of community and good relationships. People often use this time to forgive past grievances and express hope for future prosperity. This period of reflection is complemented by the Festival of Lanterns, where families gather to release lanterns into the sky or water, symbolizing the release of past woes and the embrace of future hopes. These rituals provide a serene closure to the festivities, allowing individuals and families to start the new year with peace and optimism.

Exploring the unique celebrations of Vietnamese New Year offers more than just a glimpse into a vibrant festival; it provides a deeper understanding of the values and traditions that shape Vietnam. From the rich flavors of its cuisine to the communal joy of its games and the spiritual depth of its rituals, Tết is truly a celebration of cultural richness and familial bonds. As we close this journey through the heart of Vietnamese New Year, it’s clear that Tết is not just a holiday; it’s a profound expression of the Vietnamese way of life. Whether you’re a cultural enthusiast or just curious about the traditions of the world, the stories and customs of Tết are sure to enrich your understanding of this fascinating culture.