Tết Nguyên Đán, or Lunar New Year, is the most important and widely celebrated holiday in Vietnam. It is a time for families to come together, remember their ancestors, and welcome the new year with hope and optimism. In 2025, Tết will fall on January 29th and will be celebrated for seven days, from January 28th to February 3rd.
The preparations for Tết begin well in advance. In the weeks leading up to the holiday, families begin to clean their homes, buy new clothes, and prepare traditional foods. On the eve of Tết, families gather for a special dinner called “canh giao thừa.” This meal is typically served around midnight and includes many different dishes, such as pork, chicken, fish, and vegetables. After dinner, families often stay up all night to welcome the new year. They may watch fireworks, play games, or simply chat and enjoy each other’s company.
On the first day of Tết, families visit their relatives and friends to wish them a happy new year. They also give each other gifts, such as money, food, or clothing. During Tết, it is also customary to visit temples and pagodas to pray for good luck and fortune in the coming year. Tết is a time for joy, celebration, and renewal. It is a time for families to come together and for communities to come together. It is a time to reflect on the past year and to look forward to the future with hope and optimism.
The Date of Tết 2025: A Lunar New Year Celebration
Tết Nguyên Đán, also known as the Lunar New Year or the Vietnamese New Year, is the most important and widely celebrated holiday in Vietnam. It marks the beginning of a new year according to the traditional lunisolar Vietnamese calendar.
Tết traditions and customs have been passed down through generations and vary slightly from region to region. However, some common practices include cleaning and decorating homes, preparing traditional food and sweets, exchanging gifts, visiting relatives and friends, and participating in festive activities such as lion dances and fireworks displays.
Determining the Date of Tết
The date of Tết is determined by the lunisolar calendar, which combines aspects of both the solar and lunar calendars. According to the lunisolar calendar, each month begins on the day of the new moon, and the year consists of 12 lunar months plus an intercalary month that is added approximately every three years to keep the calendar in line with the solar year.
To determine the date of Tết, astronomers observe the movement of the sun and moon. Tết falls on the first day of the first lunar month, which is the day of the new moon. In 2025, the new moon will occur on January 22, so Tết 2025 will begin on January 23, 2025.
| Year | Date |
|---|---|
| 2025 | January 23, 2025 |
Understanding the Lunar Calendar and Tết Traditions
Understanding the Lunar Calendar
The Vietnamese Lunar Calendar is based on the cycles of the moon, and it determines the dates of Tết and other important Vietnamese holidays. The calendar has 12 months, each of which is approximately 29.5 days long. The Lunar Calendar is also divided into eight solar terms, which mark the changing seasons throughout the year. The first solar term, known as Lập Xuân, occurs on about February 4th and signals the beginning of spring. The eight solar terms are important for agricultural purposes, as they indicate the best times to plant and harvest crops.
Tết Traditions
Tết is a time for families to come together and celebrate the new year. The holiday is marked by a number of traditional activities, including:
- Tết Shopping: In the weeks leading up to Tết, families go shopping for new clothes, food, and decorations.
- Tết Cleaning: Houses are thoroughly cleaned before Tết to get rid of bad luck and make way for good fortune.
- Tết Decorations: Homes are decorated with red and gold decorations, including lanterns, kumquat trees, and peach blossoms.
- Tết Offerings: Families make offerings of food and incense to their ancestors and the gods.
- Tết Feast: On Tết Eve, families gather for a large feast, which often includes traditional dishes such as bánh chưng, thịt kho, and canh khổ qua.
- Lì xì: Children receive red envelopes filled with money from their elders.
- Fireworks: Fireworks are set off throughout the holiday to ward off evil spirits.
- Visiting Relatives: Families visit their relatives and friends to wish them a happy new year.
- Playing Games: Popular Tết games include cards, chess, and bài chòi.
- Lion and Dragon Dances: These traditional dances are performed in public places to bring good luck and prosperity.
| Tết Activities | Date |
|---|---|
| Tết Eve | January 28, 2025 |
| First Day of Tết | January 29, 2025 |
| Second Day of Tết | January 30, 2025 |
| Third Day of Tết | January 31, 2025 |
Unveiling the Significance of Tết in Vietnamese Culture
Historical Origins and Legends
Tết has its roots in ancient agricultural practices, symbolizing the harvest festival and the start of a new year. Legends abound, such as the tale of the mythical hero Lạc Long Quân, who married the sea goddess Âu Cơ and created the Vietnamese people.
Social and Family Traditions
Tết is a time for reunions, family gatherings, and ancestral worship. Families make offerings to their ancestors at home altars and visit their graves to pay respects. Traditional games, such as lion dances and “tug-of-war,” add to the festive atmosphere.
Dietary Delicacies and Customs
Food plays a central role in Tết celebrations. The Bánh Chưng, a sticky rice cake stuffed with mung beans, pork, and onions, is a symbolic dish representing the country’s history and unity. Other culinary delights include Xôi Gấc (red sticky rice), Thịt Kho Tàu (braised pork with eggs), and Canh Măng (bamboo shoot soup).
| Tết Delicacies |
|---|
| Bánh Chưng (Sticky Rice Cake) |
| Xôi Gấc (Red Sticky Rice) |
| Thịt Kho Tàu (Braised Pork with Eggs) |
| Canh Măng (Bamboo Shoot Soup) |
Preparations for Tết 2025: Customs and Festivities
Tết, the Vietnamese Lunar New Year, is a time for family reunions, feasts, and festivities. In 2025, Tết will fall on Thursday, January 23rd. Preparations for Tết begin weeks in advance, as families clean their homes, prepare food, and decorate their homes with colorful lanterns and flowers.
Customs of Tết 2025
On the first day of Tết, families gather together for a traditional meal, which typically includes bánh chưng (sticky rice cakes), thịt kho (braised pork), and canh măng (bamboo soup). They also exchange gifts and wish each other good luck and prosperity for the new year.
Festivities of Tết 2025
During the Tết holiday, there are a variety of festivities held throughout Vietnam. These include lion dances, dragon boat races, and fireworks displays. Temples and pagodas are also popular destinations during Tết, as people go to pray for good fortune in the new year.
Lion Dances at Tết 2025
Lion dances are a popular tradition during Tết. The lion is a symbol of strength and good luck, and the dance is believed to bring good fortune to those who watch it. Lion dances are typically performed by teams of two or three people, who wear colorful costumes and masks. The dancers mimic the movements of a lion, and the dance is often accompanied by music and drums.
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| January 21, 2025 | Lunar New Year’s Eve |
| January 22, 2025 | First Day of Tết |
| January 23, 2025 | Second Day of Tết |
| January 24, 2025 | Third Day of Tết |
| January 25, 2025 | Fourth Day of Tết |
Dragon Boat Races at Tết 2025
Dragon boat races are another popular tradition during Tết. The dragon boat is a long, narrow boat with a dragon’s head at the front and a dragon’s tail at the back. The boats are typically paddled by teams of 20 or more people, and the races are often held in rivers or lakes. Dragon boat races are a symbol of strength and competition, and they are believed to bring good luck to the village or town that wins the race.
The Symbolism Behind Traditional Tết Decorations
Five Elements of Vietnam’s Cosmic Calendar
In Vietnamese cosmology, the universe is believed to be governed by five fundamental elements: Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water. Each element is associated with specific colors, animals, and directions, and is believed to influence various aspects of human life.
| Element | Color | Animal | Direction |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wood | Green | Tiger | East |
| Fire | Red | Horse | South |
| Earth | Yellow | Dragon | Center |
| Metal | White | Monkey | West |
| Water | Black | Rat | North |
Peach Blossom (Hoa Đào)
The peach blossom, a symbol of springtime and good fortune, is a popular decoration during Tết. Its vibrant pink color represents prosperity and abundance, while its delicate petals symbolize renewal and growth.
Apricot Blossom (Hoa Mai)
Also known as the “flower of the five blessings,” the apricot blossom represents joy, prosperity, longevity, and purity. Its white or yellow petals symbolize purity and innocence, while its fragrance is believed to bring good fortune and happiness.
Kumquat Tree (Cây Quất)
The kumquat tree is a symbol of wealth and prosperity. Its small, golden fruits resemble gold nuggets, representing the hope of financial abundance in the coming year. The tree’s evergreen foliage symbolizes longevity and vitality.
Red Envelopes (Lì Xì)
Red envelopes filled with money are a traditional gift during Tết. The color red symbolizes good luck and prosperity, while the money is believed to bring financial blessings to the recipient.
Ancestral Altar (Bàn Thờ Gia Tiên)
The ancestral altar is a sacred space in Vietnamese homes dedicated to honoring deceased family members. During Tết, it is decorated with offerings of food, flowers, and incense to express gratitude and respect for the ancestors.
Tết Food: Culinary Delights and Family Gatherings
Bánh Chưng and Bánh Tét
No Tết celebration is complete without these traditional sticky rice cakes. Bánh chưng, a square-shaped cake wrapped in banana leaves, symbolizes the earth, while bánh tét, a cylindrical cake wrapped in palm leaves, represents the sky. Both cakes are filled with a savory mixture of pork, mung beans, and other ingredients.
Xôi Gấc
This sticky rice dish, made with red gấc fruit, is a vibrant and auspicious symbol of good luck and wealth. It is often served at family gatherings during Tết.
Mứt Tết (Dried Fruits)
Mứt Tết, a variety of dried fruits, including coconut, ginger, and kumquat, is a festive snack that represents the sweetness and abundance of the new year.
Thịt Kho Tộ (Braised Pork with Caramel Sauce)
This hearty and flavorful dish is a staple of Tết family meals. Pork belly is braised in a sweet and savory caramel sauce, creating a succulent and aromatic dish.
Nem Rán (Fried Spring Rolls)
Nem rán, crispy spring rolls filled with pork, vegetables, and glass noodles, are a popular appetizer or snack during Tết. They symbolize good luck and prosperity.
Tôm Kho Tỏi (Stir-Fried Prawns with Garlic)
Tôm kho tỏi, a simple yet savory dish, is a common sight at Tết gatherings. Prawns are stir-fried with garlic and other seasonings, creating a flavorful and healthy addition to the festive table.
| Type of Food | Symbolism |
|---|---|
| Bánh Chưng / Bánh Tét | Earth and sky |
| Xôi Gấc | Good luck and wealth |
| Mứt Tết | Sweetness and abundance |
| Thịt Kho Tộ | Prosperity |
| Nem Rán | Good luck |
| Tôm Kho Tỏi | Health |
The Role of Family and Ancestors in Tết Celebrations
The celebration of Tết is a time for families to come together and honor their ancestors. It is a time to reflect on the past year and to pray for good fortune in the year to come.
The Family Reunion
Tết is a time for families to reunite. People from all over the country travel back to their hometowns to spend time with their loved ones. The family reunion is a time to catch up on each other’s lives and to share stories and laughter.
Ancestor Worship
Tết is also a time to honor ancestors. Families visit the graves of their deceased relatives and offer them food, flowers, and incense. They also pray for their ancestors’ protection and guidance.
The Seven Days of Tết
Tết is a seven-day celebration. Each day has its own special meaning and traditions.
| Day | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | The first day of Tết is the most important day. It is a time for families to gather together and exchange New Year’s greetings. |
| Day 2 | The second day of Tết is a time for visiting friends and relatives. |
| Day 3 | The third day of Tết is a time for going to the temple and praying for good fortune. |
| Day 4 | The fourth day of Tết is a time for shopping and buying new clothes. |
| Day 5 | The fifth day of Tết is a time for cooking and eating traditional Vietnamese dishes. |
| Day 6 | The sixth day of Tết is a time for relaxing and enjoying the company of family and friends. |
| Day 7 | The seventh day of Tết is the last day of the celebration. It is a time for saying goodbye to the old year and welcoming in the new. |
Tết as a Time for Renewal and Hope
The Significance of the Number 8
In Vietnamese culture, the number 8 holds great significance. It symbolizes prosperity, good fortune, and longevity. During Tết, there are numerous traditions and rituals associated with the number 8.
| Symbolism | Example |
|---|---|
| Good fortune | Decorations with the character “phuc,” meaning “good fortune,” are displayed in pairs to represent double the blessings. |
| Prosperity | Offering trays to ancestors and deities are filled with eight different types of fruits or offerings, representing abundance and prosperity. |
| Longevity | The traditional Vietnamese dish “banh chung” is a square glutinous rice cake symbolizing the Earth, and is cut into eight equal pieces to represent longevity and harmony. |
| Stability and balance | The “nam bo” or “chung ca,” traditional Vietnamese music played during Tét, consists of eight beats, symbolizing stability and balance in life. |
Lunar New Year Traditions Around the World: Similarities and Differences
Variations in the Lunar New Year Celebration
While the core traditions of the Lunar New Year remain consistent across cultures, there are also noticeable variations in how it is celebrated around the world:
9. Feasting and Delicacies
The Lunar New Year is a time for indulging in delicious food and traditional delicacies. Each culture has its unique culinary offerings associated with the holiday. In China, it is customary to enjoy dumplings, symbolizing wealth and prosperity. In Vietnam, families gather to make bánh chưng, a sticky rice cake filled with savory ingredients. In Korea, tteokguk (rice cake soup) is a popular dish, representing longevity and good luck. Other common delicacies include nian gao (glutinous rice cake) in Southeast Asia and mochi (pounded rice cake) in Japan.
| Country/Region | Traditional Delicacies |
|---|---|
| China | Dumplings, Spring rolls, Fish |
| Vietnam | Bánh chưng, Bánh tét, Thịt kho tộ |
| Korea | Tteokguk, Samgyeopsal, Jeon |
| Taiwan | Nian gao, Yuanxiao, Tangyuan |
| Japan | Mochi, Ozoni, Tempura |
The Impact of Modernization on Tết Celebrations
### Technology’s Role in Tết Observances
Modern technology has significantly transformed the way Tết is celebrated. From digital greeting cards to virtual lion dances, technology has made it easier to connect with family and friends from afar. Social media has also emerged as a platform for sharing Tết experiences and traditions.
### Changing Family Structures and Tết Traditions
As Vietnamese families evolve, so do their Tết traditions. With more individuals living independently or abroad, the traditional extended family gatherings may be less common. However, technology has provided a means to maintain connections and share festive experiences despite physical distance.
### The Influence of Western Culture on Tết
Globalization has brought increased exposure to Western cultural practices, which have influenced some aspects of Tết celebrations. For example, the exchange of Christmas gifts has become more prevalent, and Christmas decorations may be displayed alongside traditional Tết ornaments.
### The Evolution of Tết Cuisine
While traditional Tết dishes remain popular, modern culinary innovations have introduced new flavors and ingredients to the festive table. Chefs are experimenting with fusion cuisine, creating unique dishes that blend Vietnamese and Western culinary techniques.
### The Commercialization of Tết
Tết has become increasingly commercialized, with businesses and retailers offering a wide range of Tết-themed products and services. This commercialization has both positive and negative effects, as it makes it easier to access festive items but can also lead to the erosion of traditional values.
### The Preservation of Traditional Tết Practices
Despite the impact of modernization, many traditional Tết practices continue to be observed. The preparation of traditional foods, such as bánh tét and bánh chưng, remains an important part of the festival. Families often gather together to perform rituals and pay respect to their ancestors.
### The Importance of Tết in the Vietnamese Diaspora
For Vietnamese communities living abroad, Tết holds special significance as a symbol of their cultural heritage. Vietnamese communities around the world organize Tết celebrations to preserve their traditions and connect with their roots.
### The Future of Tết Celebrations
As technology and societal norms continue to evolve, the future of Tết celebrations remains uncertain. However, the enduring significance of Tết as a cultural and historical event suggests that it will continue to be a vibrant and important part of Vietnamese society.
### Table: Tết Traditions by Generation
| Generation | Tết Traditions | Technology’s Impact |
|—|—|—|
| Baby Boomers | Traditional family gatherings, religious rituals | Digital communication, social media |
| Generation X | Work-life balance, travel | Virtual celebrations, online shopping |
| Millennials | Individualized celebrations, fusion cuisine | Social media sharing, online gift-giving |
| Generation Z | Technology-driven observances, global influences | Immersive virtual experiences, mobile-based rituals |
Tết 2025 Vào Ngày Nào?
Tết Nguyên Đán là ngày lễ quan trọng nhất trong năm của người dân Việt Nam. Đây là thời gian để gia đình đoàn tụ, sum họp, cùng nhau ăn mừng một năm mới an khang thịnh vượng. Năm 2025, Tết Nguyên Đán sẽ rơi vào thứ Tư, ngày 29 tháng 1.
