How long is Tet holiday in Vietnam?
The Tet holiday, also known as Vietnamese New Year, is one of the most significant and widely celebrated festivals in Vietnam. It is a time for family reunions, traditional rituals, and a festive atmosphere across the country. The duration of Tet holiday in Vietnam can vary slightly from year to year, but typically it spans over a period of about seven days.
Officially, Tet holiday begins on the first day of the lunar New Year, which is determined by the lunar calendar. This day is known as Tet Nguyen Dan or the First Day of Tet. The festival officially ends on the seventh day, which is referred to as Tet Nguyen Ty or the Seventh Day of Tet. However, the festive spirit often extends beyond these seven days, with many people taking additional days off to spend quality time with their loved ones.
During the Tet holiday, Vietnamese people engage in various traditional practices and customs. The first few days are primarily focused on family gatherings and visiting relatives. It is customary for families to clean their homes thoroughly, decorate with red lanterns, flowers, and paper cuttings, and prepare special Tet dishes. The second day of Tet is dedicated to honoring ancestors and gods, while the third day is for visiting friends and neighbors.
One of the most iconic aspects of Tet is the exchange of red envelopes, known as Lì xì. This practice involves giving money to children, unmarried adults, and elderly individuals as a symbol of good fortune and blessings for the new year. Another important tradition is the offering of gifts to ancestors, which is believed to bring prosperity and happiness to the family.
As the Tet holiday progresses, the atmosphere becomes more festive and vibrant. Street vendors set up stalls selling traditional Tet foods, toys, and decorations. Fireworks and dragon dances are common sights in cities and towns, adding to the festive spirit. The holiday is also a time for tourists to explore the rich cultural heritage of Vietnam, with many visitors taking advantage of the long holiday to travel to different parts of the country.
In conclusion, the Tet holiday in Vietnam is a time of great celebration and cultural significance. With its seven-day duration, it allows families to come together, engage in traditional practices, and enjoy the festive atmosphere. While the holiday officially ends after seven days, the spirit of Tet often lingers, making it a memorable and cherished time for Vietnamese people both at home and abroad.
