What is Tet?
Tet, also known as Lunar New Year or Tet Nguyen Dan, is the most significant and sacred holiday in Vietnamese culture. It marks the transition from the old year to the new year according to the lunar calendar, usually falling between late January and mid-February. Tet is not only a time for rest and family reunions, but also a moment when every Vietnamese person turns toward their roots and ancestors.
When does Tet take place?
Tet usually begins on the 23rd day of the last lunar month (the Day of the Kitchen Gods) and lasts until the 10th day of the first lunar month. However, the most important days are the first three days of the new year.
Origins and Meaning
With a history spanning thousands of years, Tet originates from Vietnam’s wet rice civilization. Ancient Vietnamese believed that “a smooth start leads to a successful year,” so Tet is a time to:
- Give thanks to heaven, earth, and ancestors
- Pray for peace, happiness, and prosperity
- Strengthen family bonds and community ties
Traditional Customs During Tet
Worshiping the Kitchen Gods (23rd lunar December)
Vietnamese families hold ceremonies to send the Kitchen Gods back to Heaven to report to the Jade Emperor.
Vietnamese families hold ceremonies to send the Kitchen Gods back to Heaven to report to the Jade Emperor.
Cleaning and decorating the house
A thorough cleaning symbolizes sweeping away bad luck and preparing for a fresh new year.
A thorough cleaning symbolizes sweeping away bad luck and preparing for a fresh new year.
Making square and cylindrical sticky rice cakes
Banh Chung (in the North) and Banh Tet (in the Central and Southern regions) are traditional Tet dishes, expressing gratitude to ancestors.
Banh Chung (in the North) and Banh Tet (in the Central and Southern regions) are traditional Tet dishes, expressing gratitude to ancestors.
New Year’s Eve offering
A sacred moment to bid farewell to the old year and welcome the new one.
A sacred moment to bid farewell to the old year and welcome the new one.
First-footing and picking spring buds
The first person to enter the home (called “xong dat”) is believed to bring fortune for the year. People also go out to “pick spring buds” from trees as a gesture of seeking blessings.
The first person to enter the home (called “xong dat”) is believed to bring fortune for the year. People also go out to “pick spring buds” from trees as a gesture of seeking blessings.
New Year greetings and lucky money
People exchange warm wishes and elders give “li xi” – red envelopes containing lucky money – to children and younger relatives.
Tet Across the Regions – A Cultural Mosaic
- Northern Vietnam: Strong traditional atmosphere, cool weather, and blooming peach blossoms.
- Central Vietnam: A blend of ancient customs and vibrant folk festivals.
- Southern Vietnam: Warm weather, radiant yellow apricot blossoms, and a festive, lively spirit.
Tet – A Celebration of Cultural Values
Tet is more than just a holiday; it is a powerful symbol of Vietnamese cultural identity. In an ever-changing world, Tet remains a cherished time for people to slow down, reconnect, and remember their roots.
Tet is not just the start of a new year, but a precious moment when the whole nation pauses, reflects, and embraces a fresh journey – filled with peace, hope, and renewal.
