Chinese communities around the globe aren’t the only ones having fun this week.
In Vietnam, today marks the beginning of Tet, a major celebration to herald the arrival of the new lunar year. With next door neighbor China playing a huge role in Vietnamese history, it’s no surprise that these two nations share a similar holiday. Yet Tet is not merely a fascimile of China’s vaunted festival and the Vietnamese people are proud of their unique and longstanding traditions.
The Tet celebrations in Vietnam last for three boisterous days. Like their counterparts in Chinese communities, Vietnamese cut their hair, clean and occasionally paint their homes, and cook up a feast – not a broom or a pot is touched during the official days of Tet. This might not be the best time to practice your bargaining in the markets – they’re teeming with shoppers purchasing flowers, food and trinkets for the holiday.
An offering for Tet (Source: Wikipedia)
Tet begins at midnight on the last day of the last lunar month. Once welcomed with an abundance of firecrackers, a rash of deaths resulted in a government crackdown on “celebratory incendiery devices” in 1995 and Tet is now ushered in with more of a whisper. But it doesn’t do much to quell the following day’s festivities – incensing burning, gambling on the street corners, and dragon dances as the sun goes down.
Tet is a time to spend at home, as visits to one’s family abode are popular during the three days. The first visitor has the greatest significance – with luck, the honored guest is rich or prestigious … or both! His or her status conveys luck on the family for the coming year. Following this guest comes a parade of relatives and friends, capping off with visits by teachers and business associates on the third day. The living aren’t the only ones paying visits during Tet, however; families set up and decorate elaborate altars in their homes in hopes of pleasing the spirits of deceased relatives who just might pop by.
Tet can be both a frustrating and rewarding time to visit Vietnam. While the transportation infrastructure both pre and post holiday can be a nightmare, the chance to witness the unbridled unenthusiasm of a populace as the welcome their new year is unparalleled.
Missed out on Tet this year – don’t fret! Contact an Asia360 travel specialist and plan your own Custom Indochina adventure.
Written By Mandy Bartok.
