Vietnamese Lunar New Year (Tết) Traditions Quiz

Study Notes

Tết Nguyên Đán, commonly known as Tết, is the Vietnamese Lunar New Year, celebrated annually to mark the start of Spring based on the lunisolar calendar. Tết holds immense cultural significance for the Vietnamese population and is observed across various communities, each with their regional and religious variations. Here are some aspects related to the traditions and customs associated with Tết:

Preparations: The preparations for Tết begin several weeks in advance, with thorough cleaning of houses, purchasing of new clothing and decorations, and preparing traditional dishes such as banh tet, banh chung, and thit kho hot vit. Families gather for meals and gatherings, and all outstanding debts are paid off.
Ancestor Worship: Visiting and paying respects to family altars and ancestors is a crucial part of Tết celebrations. On New Year's Eve, families worship their ancestors to seek their blessings and guidance for the coming year.
Visiting Friends and Relatives: The first few days of Tết are dedicated to visiting friends and relatives. Traditionally, the second day is reserved for friends, the third day for teachers, and the fourth day for business associates.
Gift-Giving: Lucky money in red envelopes (called li xi or tien mung tuoi) is given to children and sometimes to adults. The color red symbolizes good luck and is believed to ward off evil spirits.
Decorations: Decorations play a significant role in Tết celebrations. Kumquat trees, bamboo poles (cay neu), peach blossoms, and flowers like chrysanthemums and orchids are commonly used to decorate homes and temples.
Taboo Practices: Certain practices are considered taboo during Tết. For instance, it is customary not to sweep floors on the first day of the new year, as it is thought to sweep away good luck.
Year End Meal: A traditional year-end meal with the entire extended family is held during Tết, where members share their accomplishments and plans for the future.

These customs reflect the deep sense of community and reverence towards ancestors that permeates Vietnamese culture. Despite regional differences, Tết remains a unifying festival that fosters family bonding and social harmony.

Description

Test your knowledge on the traditional customs and practices associated with Tết Nguyên Đán, also known as Tết, the Vietnamese Lunar New Year celebrated to mark the beginning of Spring. Explore aspects like preparations, ancestor worship, gift-giving, taboo practices, and more.