Celebrating the Lunar New Year

Lunar New Year is just over a week away, and as another year comes to a close, I find myself reflecting on what this holiday means to me. For many, Christmas holds a special place, but for me—a Vietnamese person who has lived in New Zealand for over a decade—Tết (Lunar New Year) remains the most cherished celebration of all. Despite being far from home, I’ve always found ways to honor and preserve these traditions. Tết is more than just a holiday; it’s a deeply significant occasion for paying tribute to ancestors, reflecting on the past, and welcoming the future with hope.

In this blog, I’ll share insights into Vietnamese Tết culture, how I celebrate it in New Zealand, and how you can join in the festivities.

A New Year, Twice a Year

Unlike the universal New Year on January 1st, Vietnamese people also follow the lunar calendar, which means we celebrate the new year twice annually. The preparations for Tết begin early, starting on the 23rd day of the last lunar month. This is the day we clean our homes to sweep away the bad luck and misfortunes of the past year, making space for blessings in the new one.

It’s also the day we bid farewell to the Kitchen God (Ông Táo) as he ascends to heaven to report on the household’s affairs. This tradition serves as a gentle reminder to live honestly and care for our families. Alongside these preparations, homes are adorned with traditional decorations such as peach blossoms, kumquat trees, and Tết paintings, creating a vibrant and festive atmosphere.

New Year decoration

Welcoming the New Year

The pinnacle of Tết celebrations is Giao Thừa (New Year’s Eve). Families reunite for a special midnight ceremony to mark the transition from the old year to the new. Offerings are made, and prayers are said, wishing for a year of health, prosperity, and happiness.

This moment is often followed by a practice called hái lộc, where people visit temples or sacred places to pick lucky branches or receive blessings, symbolizing growth and abundance. Many also seek calligraphy works from master artisans, which convey wishes for knowledge and success, especially for students and young professionals.

On the first day of the lunar new year, we pay respects to our ancestors through offerings and prayers, followed by three days of visits to relatives and friends. Gifts like specialty foods, drinks, and lì xì (red envelopes filled with money) are exchanged as tokens of luck and gratitude. These small gestures bring joy and strengthen bonds within the community.

Vietnamese Culture: Culinary Traditions and Festive Spirit

Tết is a celebration where the beauty of Vietnamese culture shines through its traditions, food, and attire. One of the most treasured aspects of Tết is the dedication and care that goes into preparing festive meals.

In Vietnamese households, the women—our grandmothers, mothers, and aunts—work tirelessly in the days leading up to Tết to create lavish feasts for the family. These meals are more than just food; they represent love, effort, and the spirit of togetherness. Dishes like bánh chưng in the north and bánh tét in the south are lovingly prepared, often taking an entire day to assemble and cook. The process involves multiple family members, from cleaning ingredients to wrapping sticky rice cakes in banana leaves, making it a cherished tradition passed down through generations.

Beyond the kitchen, the spirit of Tết extends into how we present ourselves. During the holiday, people wear áo dài, Vietnam’s traditional long dress, as a way to welcome the new year in elegance and style. The vibrant colors and intricate designs of the áo dài symbolize prosperity, joy, and a fresh start. From family gatherings to temple visits, the áo dài adds a touch of cultural pride and festive cheer to every celebration.

This blend of culinary dedication and traditional attire reflects the essence of Tết: a harmonious balance of effort, beauty, and the hope for a prosperous year ahead.

Making Banh Chung - Sticky rice is one of Tet traditions

Modern Tết: Evolving Traditions

While the essence of Tết remains, modernization and globalization have brought changes. Many families now travel or enjoy ready-made meals instead of cooking traditional dishes themselves. For those of us living abroad, it’s not always possible to return home for Tết. But even so, we find ways to stay connected.

Here in New Zealand, I prepare by tidying my home, buying fresh flowers, and ordering traditional foods like bánh chưng and giò lụa (Vietnamese pork sausage). I call my family to exchange well-wishes and gather with friends to celebrate. Watching Táo Quân—a beloved satirical show aired every Tết—helps us feel closer to home.

Social media also plays a role in keeping our traditions alive. Vietnamese communities on platforms like Facebook come alive with Tết posts, from recipe sharing to cultural discussions. These connections remind me how vibrant and resilient our culture is, no matter where we are in the world.

The Spirit of Tết

Tết embodies profound cultural, spiritual, and emotional significance for every Vietnamese person. Despite the changes brought by modern life, the traditions of preparing for and celebrating Tết remain steadfast, and deeply rooted in our hearts.

It’s a bridge connecting the past with the present, reminding us of our origins while inspiring hope for the future. For me, Tết is not just about celebrations—it’s about family, gratitude, and a renewed sense of purpose as we step into a new year.

Whether you’re Vietnamese or simply curious, I hope this glimpse into Tết inspires you to celebrate this special holiday with us. Light a lantern, share a meal, or learn more about the traditions that make Lunar New Year a time of connection and joy.

Chúc Mừng Năm Mới!
(Wishing you a Happy New Year!)

Visiting family and friends to wish for the Happy New Year!