Tet Traditions and Customs in Vietnam

Tet, or Lunar New Year, is Vietnam's most important holiday, marking the start of spring and a new year for agrarian communities. Traditionally, preparations spanned months, but now the holiday is shorter. Streets are adorned with lights and banners, and homes are decorated with flowers like peach and apricot blossoms. Special foods like bang chum and candied fruits are prepared. During Tet, people are polite, exchange wishes, and give children lucky money. Many visit pagodas to pray for a prosperous year. Tet is a time of joy and festivity across Vietnam.

What is the significance of Tet in Vietnam?

• It marks the end of summer.

• It is a minor holiday.

• It is celebrated only in urban areas.

• It signifies the start of spring and a new year.

When does Tet typically occur according to the Western calendar?

• Between November and December

• Between May and June

• Between March and April

• Between January 19th and February 20th

What are common activities people engage in before Tet?

• Planting new crops

• Decorating streets and homes

• Traveling abroad

• Building new houses

Which flower is traditionally used in the north of Vietnam during Tet?

• Lotus flower

• Cherry blossom

• Peach blossom

• Apricot blossom

What is 'bang chum' made of?

• Sticky rice, green beans, and fatty pork

• Rice noodles and chicken

• Bread and butter

• Fish and vegetables

Why do people try to be nice and polite during Tet?

• To avoid fines

• To influence their luck for the year

• To win a prize

• To impress tourists

What do children typically receive during Tet?

• Lucky money in red envelopes

• Books

• New clothes

• Toys

Where do many people go to pray for a happy year during Tet?

• The beach

• The market

• The pagodas

• The mountains

What types of activities are common during Tet?

• Studying for exams

• Participating in games and entertainment

• Building new homes

• Starting new jobs

What is the overall atmosphere of Tet in Vietnam?

• Quiet and somber

• Busy and stressful

• Calm and relaxing

• Fun and festive