The Spring Festival, known as Tet in Vietnam, is a momentous occasion celebrated by millions in both China and Vietnam. This festival not only marks the beginning of a new lunar year but also highlights the deep-rooted cultural ties between the two neighboring countries.
In the weeks leading up to the festival, families in both nations engage in a thorough cleaning of their homes. This practice, believed to sweep away bad luck and misfortune, symbolizes a fresh start for the coming year. Streets and homes are adorned with vibrant red decorations, including lanterns and couplets bearing auspicious messages, to invite prosperity and good fortune.
One of the most cherished traditions is the grand reunion dinner on New Year’s Eve. Family members, often traveling great distances, gather around tables filled with sumptuous dishes. In China, delicacies like dumplings and fish are served, symbolizing wealth and surplus. Similarly, in Vietnam, traditional foods such as bánh chưng (sticky rice cakes) take center stage, representing the earth and sky.
The exchange of red envelopes, containing money, is another shared custom. Known as hóngbāo in China and lì xì in Vietnam, this gesture conveys blessings and best wishes to the recipients, especially children and the elderly.
Festivities continue with vibrant parades featuring lion and dragon dances, fireworks lighting up the night skies, and visits to temples to pray for a prosperous year ahead. These exuberant celebrations not only strengthen family bonds but also reinforce community ties.
The similarities in these traditions are a testament to the shared heritage and cultural affinities between China and Vietnam. As globalization brings the world closer, these age-old customs serve as a poignant reminder of the historical connections that unite these nations.
For travelers and cultural enthusiasts, experiencing the Spring Festival or Tet offers a unique insight into the rich traditions and communal spirit of East Asian cultures. Business professionals and investors observing these festivities can also gain valuable perspectives on the cultural values that influence social and economic interactions in the region.
As both countries usher in the new lunar year, the shared celebrations of Spring Festival and Tet continue to build bridges of understanding and mutual appreciation between China and Vietnam.
Reference(s):
Spring Festival: A shared tradition between China and Vietnam
cgtn.com
