Tết, also known as Tết Nguyen Dan or Tet Lunar New Year, is the most important holiday in Vietnam. It marks the beginning of the lunar new year and is a time for families to come together, exchange gifts, and pay respect to their ancestors. Tết is celebrated over a period of several days and is full of customs and traditions that have been passed down through generations.
One of the most important customs of Tết is the cleaning and decorating of the home. Vietnamese families will spend days leading up to Tết cleaning their homes to sweep away any bad luck from the previous year. They will also decorate their homes with flowers, such as peach blossoms and kumquat trees, as well as colorful lanterns and traditional Vietnamese decorations.
Another important aspect of Tết is the family reunion meal. Families will gather on Tết Eve to enjoy a lavish feast together. Traditional dishes such as bánh chưng (a square sticky rice cake filled with mung beans and pork) and pickled vegetables are served, along with other favorite dishes. Families will also offer food and drink to their ancestors by setting up an alter in their homes.
During Tết, it is also customary for families to visit the homes of their relatives and friends to wish them a happy new year. This is known as “li xi”, where children receive red envelopes containing money from their elders as a symbol of good luck and prosperity for the coming year.
One of the most colorful and vibrant aspects of Tết is the parades and festivals that take place throughout Vietnam. Streets are decorated with lights and lanterns, and traditional dragon dancers perform in the streets. Fireworks are set off to ward off evil spirits, and there are also traditional games and performances to enjoy.
Overall, Tết is a time of joy, togetherness, and renewal in Vietnam. It is a time to celebrate new beginnings and look forward to the year ahead. Whether you are in Vietnam or celebrating abroad, Tết is a time to come together with family and friends to celebrate the richness of Vietnamese culture and traditions.
