Tet Nguyen Dan, commonly referred to as Lunar New Year, is one of the most significant and cherished festivals in Viet Nam. Observed on the first day of the lunar calendar, Tet serves not only as a joyous occasion for families to come together but also as a magnet for international tourists eager to immerse themselves in the rich traditions and festivities. If you find yourself in Vietnam during Tet Nguyen Dan, you will be enveloped in a colorful and lively atmosphere brimming with excitement and unique experiences. Here are some delightful activities you can partake in to truly embrace the Tet spirit in Viet Nam.
Visiting Tet Markets
Tet markets are vibrant hubs that showcase the diverse cultural and culinary traditions of the Tet holiday. Markets such as Ho Thi Ky Flower Market in Ho Chi Minh City, Hang Luoc Market and Quang An Market in Ha Noi, as well as Tet markets in other major cities, are ideal destinations for exploration. Here, you’ll find stalls brimming with Tet flowers, fruits, banh chung, banh tet, and a variety of other specialties. The atmosphere in Tet markets is usually bustling, filled with laughter, festive greetings, and the lively hustle and bustle of the crowd.
- Ho Thi Ky Flower Market (Ho Chi Minh City): This is the largest flower market in Ho Chi Minh City, offering a wide range of Tet flowers, from peach blossoms and yellow apricot flowers to chrysanthemums. You can stroll through the vibrant stalls and soak in the festive spirit of Tet.
- Hang Luoc Market (Ha Noi): Hang Luoc Market is famous for traditional items such as peach blossoms, kumquat trees, and various Tet candies. It’s a great place to find unique Tet gifts and experience the festive atmosphere that defines the capital city.
- Quang An Flower Market (Ha Noi): During Tet, the market showcases a wide variety of signature flowers such as peach blossoms, yellow apricot flowers, roses, chrysanthemums, lilies, as well as ornamental plants like kumquat trees, grapefruit trees, and yellow apricot trees. The vibrant and colorful blossoms create a stunning backdrop, filling the air with the essence of spring.
- Flower Streets: Many localities across the country invest significantly in Flower Streets, which are beautifully arranged spaces featuring various flowers and cultural activities right in the city center. These events typically last for about two weeks, just before and after Tet. Nguyen Hue Flower Street in Ho Chi Minh City is a lively and enchanting destination. It is adorned with a rich array of flowers, including traditional varieties like apricot blossoms and chrysanthemums, as well as collections from the Mekong Delta, Da Lat, and Ha Noi. Each year, the flower street presents a unique theme that reflects creativity and cultural significance through artistic designs. Visitors can engage in various activities along the flower street, such as flower arrangement workshops, art exhibitions, and photo opportunities with stunning floral displays. This interactivity allows everyone to immerse themselves in the festive atmosphere.
Enjoying Cultural Performances
During Tet, many cities and localities in Vietnam organize vibrant cultural performances such as lion dances, dragon dances, and traditional art programs. The lively lion dances, with their agile movements and bright colors, not only bring joy but are also believed to ward off evil spirits and usher in good fortune for the new year. You can watch these performances in public areas, large squares, or even at local festivals.
- Unicorn Dance: The lion dance, featuring graceful movements and colorful lion costumes, is believed to bring luck and drive away evil spirits. You can catch these unicorn dance performances at pedestrian streets, shopping malls, or various Tet events.
- Dragon Dance: The dragon dance is a common feature at major festivals. With powerful movements and dazzling dragon costumes, the dragon dance is not only entertaining but also symbolizes strength and prosperity.
Experiencing Tet Cuisine
Cuisine is an indispensable part of Tet Nguyen Dan. Signature dishes such as banh chung, banh tet, pickled onions, gio lua (Vietnamese pork sausage), kho tau (braised pork), and various Tet candies are must-try items. Participating in a Tet feast at a local family’s home or at upscale restaurants and hotels will allow you to fully experience the flavors of Tet. These dishes are not only delicious but also carry special meanings during the holiday, symbolizing wishes for a prosperous and peaceful new year.
- Banh Chung/Banh Tet: These traditional dishes are essential during Tet. Banh chung is square-shaped and wrapped in dong leaves, while banh tet is cylindrical and wrapped in banana leaves. Engaging in the process of making these cakes or enjoying them at local families’ homes or restaurants will be a memorable experience.
- Tet Candies: Tet candies consist of specially prepared sweets and dried fruits to enjoy during the holiday. Coconut candy, ginger candy, and lotus seed candy are popular varieties you can sample.
Participating in Traditional Cultural Activities
Tet Nguyen Dan is not only a time for family reunions but also an opportunity to engage in traditional cultural activities. You can take part in various ceremonies, such as offering incense at temples and pagodas, or join in festive activities like folk games, writing red couplets, and cooking traditional dishes. These activities not only provide an enjoyable experience but also enhance your understanding of Vietnamese customs and traditions during Tet.
- Tet Greetings in the Family: Visit a Vietnamese family during Tet to share in the joy and wish for a prosperous and peaceful new year. Families often hold reunions with traditional meals in a warm atmosphere. Folk games, singing, and other fun activities are also commonly organized to strengthen family bonds. You will receive lucky money (li xi) from the hosts, so don’t forget to prepare red envelopes filled with money to give to children. The lucky money symbolizes wishes for a year filled with good fortune and success.
- Offering Incense at Temples and Pagodas: The ritual of offering incense, lighting candles, and praying at famous temples and pagodas, such as Ngoc Son Temple in Ha Noi, Giac Lam Pagoda in Ho Chi Minh City, or any nearby pagoda, is a cherished practice. These places often host Tet festivals with traditional ceremonies, such as prayers for peace and the first blessings of the year.
Tet Nguyen Dan presents a wonderful opportunity for you to engage and immerse yourself in the local culture. Exotic Vietnam acts as a bridge, connecting you with the local community, where you can learn about their customs and traditions, and even try your hand at making traditional dishes. The warmth and enthusiasm of the Vietnamese people will ensure that you have truly memorable experiences. If you find yourself in Viet Nam during this festive season, don’t miss the chance to soak in the vibrant atmosphere and explore the rich cultural tapestry of this beautiful country. Reach out to us at www.exotic.vn.
