Discover Vietnamese Lunar New Year Traditions
Learn about Vietnamese Lunar New Year traditions
Tết Nguyên Đán, commonly known as Tết, is the most important and anticipated celebration of the year for Vietnamese people. It is a time for family reunions, honoring ancestors, and welcoming the new year with hope and optimism.
Li Xi (Lucky Money)
Red envelopes containing money are given to children and unmarried adults during Tet. The red color symbolizes good luck and prosperity. The act of giving and receiving li xi represents wishes for a prosperous new year.
Banh Chung and Banh Tet
These traditional rice cakes are essential to Tet celebrations. Banh Chung (square, from the North) and Banh Tet (cylindrical, from the South) are made from glutinous rice, mung bean, and pork, wrapped in banana leaves.
Mai and Dao Blossoms
Yellow mai blossoms (Southern Vietnam) and pink peach blossoms (Northern Vietnam) are essential Tet decorations. They symbolize the arrival of spring and new beginnings.
Decorations and Colors
Red and gold are the dominant colors of Tet, representing luck, happiness, and wealth. Homes are decorated with red banners, lanterns, and couplets with wishes for the new year.
Giao Thua (New Years Eve)
The most important moment of Tet is giao thua, the transition between the old and new year at midnight. Families gather to welcome the new year together.
Tet Foods
Special dishes are prepared for Tet, including thit kho (braised pork), cu kieu (preserved vegetables), mut (candied fruits), and dua hanh (preserved onions).
Year of the Horse 2026
2026 is the Year of the Horse in the Vietnamese zodiac. People born in Horse years are believed to be energetic, independent, and adventurous with a free spirit.
Family Reunions
Tet is the most important time for family reunions in Vietnamese culture. People travel from far away to be with their families.