Tet, or the Lunar New Year, is Vietnam's most significant holiday season. Drawing parallels with the Western Christmas and New Year concept, Tet is an amalgamation of gratitude, family reunions, and colourful festivities.
The streets come alive with vibrant lights, traditional customs are carried out fervently, and the air is filled with an infectious spirit of anticipation and joy.
Whether planning to travel, teach, or live in Vietnam, experiencing Tet will undoubtedly enrich your understanding of Vietnamese culture.
This guide will equip you with everything you need to know about celebrating Tet in Vietnam and how to make the most of this unique experience.
1. Understanding Tet: What is it?
Tet, or Tet Nguyen Dan, is the Vietnamese New Year marking the arrival of spring based on the Lunar calendar. Much like New Year celebrations worldwide, Tet is the time for Vietnamese people to bid farewell to the past year's trials and tribulations and usher in luck, happiness, and prosperity for the year ahead.
2. When is Tet Celebrated?
The dates for Tet vary each year, usually falling between mid-January to mid-February. The official holiday lasts about a week, but the festive spirit envelops the country for nearly a month, with celebrations kicking off a week before Tet and continuing for a week afterwards.
3. Preparing for Tet: The Build-Up
The weeks leading up to Tet are a flurry of activity. Homes are meticulously cleaned, debts are paid off, and people buy new clothes to start the New Year on a fresh note. Markets are busy with shoppers buying necessities, traditional food, and beautiful flowers like peach blossoms and kumquat trees for decoration.
4. Tet Traditions and Customs
Tet is steeped in tradition and customs that have stood the test of time. Each tradition holds symbolic significance, from wearing red for good luck to gifting red envelopes (known as 'lucky money') to children.
One of the highlights of Tet is the preparation and consumption of unique dishes like Banh Chung, a rice cake filled with mung beans and pork.
5. Where to Spend Tet in Vietnam
Experiencing Tet in Vietnam is unique in every city, each offering a different flavour of the festivities.
5.1 Hanoi
In the capital city of Hanoi, Tet transforms the ancient city into a quiet haven. Museums and shops close down, and the usually hectic streets become serene, making it the perfect time for strolls and soaking in the tranquil atmosphere.
5.2 Ho Chi Minh City
Unlike Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City is a lively hub during Tet. From watching fireworks displays to strolling down the beautifully decorated Nguyen Hue Flower Street, there's no shortage of activities to indulge in.
5.3 Hoi An
Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is another fantastic place to spend Tet. The ancient town comes alive with the glow of hundreds of colourful lanterns, and despite many shops being closed, the streets are bustling with vendors selling local foods and Tet specialities.
5.4 Hue
Hue, the ancient imperial capital, offers a peaceful Tet experience. The city's historical sites make for a picturesque backdrop to the holiday celebrations.
5.5 Da Nang
Da Nang, known for its stunning beaches and bridges, is another excellent destination to experience Tet. The Dragon Bridge, in particular, is a must-visit spot during the celebrations.
5.6 Nha Trang
For beach lovers, Nha Trang is the place to be. Its beautiful coastline and warm weather provide the perfect setting for a relaxed Tet holiday.
6. Travelling During Tet
Travelling in Vietnam during Tet requires some planning. Transport options may be limited as many locals travel back to their hometowns to spend the holiday with their families.
Therefore, it's advisable to book your transport well in advance and avoid travelling on the first day of Tet.
7. Teaching During Tet
If you plan to teach in Vietnam during Tet, it's essential to understand the holiday's significance and how it impacts the school schedule. Most schools and universities close for about a week during Tet, giving you an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in the celebrations.
8. Living in Vietnam During Tet
For those living in Vietnam, Tet offers a beautiful opportunity to engage with local customs and traditions. It's a time to build relationships with your neighbours, colleagues, and friends and participate in local festivities.
9. Tet Food and Delicacies
Tet is a food lover's paradise, with traditional dishes taking centre stage during the celebrations. From sticky rice cakes (Banh Chung) to pickled onions (Hanh Muoi), each dish is steeped in tradition and is a culinary delight.
10. Tet Decorations
Tet decorations, from vibrant lanterns to peach blossoms, are integral to the celebrations. Homes, streets, and businesses are adorned with flowers and red and gold ornaments - the colours symbolising good luck and prosperity.
11. Tet Festivals
Various festivals take place throughout Vietnam during Tet, each offering unique experiences. These events provide fascinating insights into Vietnamese culture, from the Lantern Festival in Hoi An to the Flower Festival in Da Lat.
12. Tips for Celebrating Tet
Celebrate Tet like a local by immersing yourself in the traditions. Wear red for good luck, try making Banh Chung, or participate in local games and events.
Most importantly, enjoy the festive atmosphere and make the most of this enriching cultural experience.
Celebrating Tet in Vietnam is a unique and unforgettable experience, offering a deep dive into Vietnamese culture and traditions.
Whether travelling, teaching, or living in Vietnam during Tet, this guide will help you navigate and enjoy the festivities to the fullest.
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