A Time for Family and Renewal: Tet Nguyen Dan is the most important holiday in Vietnam, marking the beginning of the new year according to the lunisolar calendar. It's a time for families to gather, honor ancestors, and celebrate new beginnings. The atmosphere is filled with joy, excitement, and a sense of renewal.

Festive Preparations: Weeks before Tet, people begin preparing their homes with vibrant decorations, including red lanterns, colorful flowers like peach blossoms and kumquat trees, and offerings for ancestors. Traditional dishes like bánh chưng (sticky rice cakes) and bánh tét (cylindrical glutinous rice cakes) are meticulously prepared and shared with loved ones.

Family Reunions and Ancestral Respect: On Tet Eve, families come together for a grand feast, sharing stories and laughter. Ancestral rituals are performed to show respect and gratitude for those who have passed away. Many believe that the spirits of ancestors return home during Tet, so these rituals welcome them and seek their blessings for the new year.

Celebrations and Traditions: The first few days of Tet are filled with visits to relatives and friends, exchanging lì xì (lucky money) in red envelopes, attending lion dances and other cultural performances. Traditional games like Bài Tây (a card game) and cờ tướng (Chinese checkers) are enjoyed by all ages.

Year of the Dragon: Notably, 2024 was the year of the Dragon in the Vietnamese zodiac, signifying strength, power, and good luck. Many decorations and festivities incorporated dragon motifs to celebrate this auspicious year.

While Tet Nguyen Dan 2024 has passed, understanding its significance and traditions can provide a glimpse into the heart of Vietnamese culture and its deep-rooted values of family, respect, and celebrating new beginnings.