
BLOGSNgày: 26-01-2025 by: Duy Vũ
UNIQUE VIETNAMESE TET CUSTOMS: THE ESSENCE OF A THOUSAND-YEAR CULTURE
After journeying together through the Tet traditions of the three regions, we embark on a voyage to discover unique customs that, like precious gems, add vibrant colors to the cultural tapestry of Tet.
These customs are not merely annual activities but cultural imprints, containing a treasure trove of profound spiritual meaning and value.
1. The custom of sending the Kitchen Gods to Heaven: Reporting the past year and expressing wishes
One of the most distinctive Tet traditions in Vietnam is the custom of sending the Kitchen Gods (Ông Táo) to Heaven on the 23rd day of the last lunar month. This is not only a religious ritual but also an opportunity for people to reflect on the past year, considering what has been accomplished and what remains to be done, in order to set better goals for the new year.
(Source : Internet)
As such, offerings for the Kitchen Gods are meticulously prepared, with the hope that they will report good things about the family to the Jade Emperor, bringing luck and prosperity in the new year. Especially in the North, people also release carp into rivers or lakes, symbolizing the means for the Kitchen Gods to "ride" to Heaven, while also expressing wishes for good fortune in the coming year.
2. The custom of decorating with flowers during Tet: Welcoming spring with vibrant colors
Tet would not be complete without the colorful presence of flowers. This is not only a refined hobby but also a way for people to immerse themselves in the fresh spring atmosphere and convey good wishes for the new year. Each region has its own unique characteristics in choosing and enjoying Tet flowers:
- Northern Vietnam: People here often choose delicate peach blossoms as a symbol of spring, growth, and luck. Additionally, kumquat trees laden with golden fruits are indispensable in every home, representing abundance and prosperity.
(Source : Internet)
- Central Vietnam: In this region, people prefer radiant yellow apricot blossoms, reminiscent of warm sunlight, bringing joy and hope. Chrysanthemums and orchids are also popular for their elegant beauty and noble meanings.
(Source : Internet)
- Southern Vietnam: In the South, people favor vibrant yellow apricot blossoms along with marigolds, cockscomb flowers, and sunflowers, symbolizing wishes for peace and prosperity in the new year. Additionally, fruits such as watermelon and dragon fruit are displayed in homes as blessings for abundance and wealth.
(Source : Internet)
3. The custom of making Bánh Chưng and Bánh Tét: The traditional taste of Tet
(Source : Internet)
Making Bánh Chưng (square sticky rice cakes) and Bánh Tét (cylindrical sticky rice cakes) is an indispensable Tet tradition in Vietnam. This is not only part of the Tet preparations but also an occasion for family members to gather, share stories, and strengthen familial bonds. Moreover, these cakes are not just food but symbols of fullness, prosperity, and the irreplaceable flavors of traditional Tet.
4. The custom of picking buds at the beginning of the year: Wishing for abundant luck (Northern Vietnam)
(Source : Internet)
After the New Year's Eve moment, people in Northern Vietnam often go to temples or sacred places to pick young buds at the start of the year. This is not merely a symbolic act but also an expression of hope for a prosperous and lucky new year. Fresh green buds are brought home and placed in vases as blessings for the family in the coming year.
5. The custom of first-footing: Bringing good fortune to every home
(Source : Internet)
The custom of first-footing, or "xông đất," is an important tradition symbolizing wishes for a peaceful and lucky new year. However, each region has its own beliefs and practices:
- Northern Vietnam: Here, first-footing is taken very seriously. The first person to enter the house after New Year's Eve is believed to bring good fortune to the homeowner. Therefore, careful consideration is given to choosing this person based on their age, zodiac sign, and compatibility with the homeowner. Often, they are invited to the house before New Year's Eve and then leave and re-enter at the start of the new year to ensure they are the first to step foot inside.
- Central Vietnam: In Central Vietnam, first-footing is less strict than in the North, mainly symbolizing luck and happiness. However, people still prefer someone with a cheerful personality and good fortune to perform this tradition, wishing for a smooth and harmonious year ahead.
- Southern Vietnam: In the South, first-footing is more spontaneous, with less emphasis on meticulous selection. However, people still believe that the first visitor of the year brings good luck, and this person is often a cheerful, optimistic friend, neighbor, or family member.
6. The Whale Worship Ceremony: Praying for a peaceful sea (Central Vietnam)
(Source : Internet)
During Tet, especially in coastal areas of Central Vietnam, the Whale Worship Ceremony is a unique cultural tradition that expresses gratitude to the sea and hopes for favorable weather and bountiful catches in the new year. This is not only a religious ritual but also an occasion for community unity, sharing joy and common aspirations. The ceremony is often held with solemn offerings and traditional cultural activities such as folk singing and lion dances, creating a lively and meaningful festive atmosphere.
7. The custom of Tet markets: Preparing for the spring festival
(Source : Internet)
Visiting Tet markets is an indispensable activity in the days leading up to the Lunar New Year. This is not only a chance to shop for Tet essentials but also an opportunity to feel the bustling and lively atmosphere of spring, as well as to share stories of joy and sorrow from the past year. As a result, Tet markets are always crowded with buyers and sellers, offering a wide variety of goods, from local specialties to Tet decorations.
8. The custom of visiting ancestral graves, welcoming and bidding farewell to ancestors: Showing respect and family unity
(Source : Internet)
In the early days of the new year, Vietnamese people often visit ancestral graves to show respect and gratitude to their forebears. This is not only a traditional act but also an occasion for family members to gather, remember loved ones, and express reverence for their roots. It is believed that on New Year's Eve, ancestors return to visit their descendants. Therefore, families clean their homes and prepare offerings to welcome them back for Tet.
After Tet, typically on the third day of the new year, families hold a farewell ceremony for the ancestors, expressing their longing and wishing for their blessings and protection. This tradition reflects family bonds, filial piety, and the ethical values deeply rooted in Vietnamese culture.
Thus, the unique Tet customs of Vietnam, spanning from the North to the South, create a vibrant and meaningful cultural portrait. From solemn rituals to lively festivities and regionally distinct traditions, all contribute to an unforgettable Vietnamese Tet. Let us cherish, preserve, and promote these beautiful cultural values so that Tet remains a source of national pride and a bridge connecting generations, spreading the essence of spring in the hearts of every Vietnamese. Wishing everyone a new year filled with peace, prosperity, joy, and happiness!