Celebrating Tet, the Vietnamese New Year, is a popular tradition unique to Vietnam. Falling in early February on the Lunar New Year, it’s Vietnam’s time for ringing in the new year. Vietnamese Americans still connect to their roots through Tet, and they describe it as “an Tet,” literally meaning “eating the New Year.” For the celebration, the family comes together to ready the home and prepare their favorite foods.
Learn more about the delicious foods and fun traditions of Tet here.
A summary of Tet celebrations:
Traditionally, each family puts up an artificial New Year tree made of a bamboo pole adorned with objects supposed to bring good fortune. Flowers, as well as distinctive paintings and photos, are typically used to adorn each home. Traditionally, individuals attempted to bring forth their blooms on the day of the celebration.
The Tet celebrations can last for days or even a week, and people fill the streets trying to make as much noise as possible using firecrackers, drums, bells, gongs, and anything else they can think of. They do this to scare off evil spirits. The Tet parades will also feature a variety of masks and dancers performing what are known as lion dances.
Once the New Year’s parade is over, it’s time to feast on traditional Vietnamese dishes with family and friends. Participants enjoy the happiness and joy of the New Year together! At this time, the elders will also bless the children with good luck by giving them red envelopes full of money in exchange for holiday greetings. Some Vietnamese households also pay off their debts before the New Year to mark the occasion.
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