Explore Vietnamese Lunar New Year Traditions When Traveling to Hoi An

Spring is the ideal time to explore Vietnamese Lunar New Year traditions in the ancient town. Laluna Hoi An Riverside Hotel & Spa welcomes you to experience the magic of Vietnamese Tet culture. Join us to discover the spiritual beauty and vibrant customs that make this holiday the heart of Vietnam's heritage.

I. The significance of traditional Vietnamese lunar new year customs

For the Vietnamese people, the Lunar New Year is the most significant event in the calendar. It marks the sacred transition between the previous and the following year.

All Vietnamese Lunar New Year traditions are deeply rooted in gratitude towards ancestors. It is a time for family members to return home and reunite. The desire for family harmony is a key part of Vietnamese Tet culture.

*A traditional altar setup reflecting the depth of **Vietnamese Lunar New Year traditions**.*

Locals believe that preserving Vietnamese Lunar New Year traditions determines the fortune for the year. Therefore, every action, word, and thought is directed towards positivity. This belief is the foundation of the warm hospitality you will experience here.

II. Discover Vietnamese lunar new year traditions when visiting Hoi An

Hoi An is one of the few places where ancient values are preserved almost intact. Visitors can effortlessly witness Vietnamese Tet culture occurring right on the ancient streets. Below are the unique cultural activities you should not miss.

1. Worshiping the kitchen gods (Ong Cong - Ong Tao Ceremony)

Before the official Tet holiday begins, Vietnamese families perform a ritual to send the Kitchen Gods to heaven. This is one of the earliest Vietnamese Lunar New Year traditions, taking place on the 23rd day of the last lunar month. The ceremony involves reporting the family's affairs to the Jade Emperor.

Householders prepare a worship tray and live carp to release into the river. The carp is believed to transform into a dragon, serving as the vehicle for the Kitchen Gods. In Hoi An, the activity of releasing carp into the Hoai River is incredibly vibrant.

*Releasing carp into the river is a key part of **Vietnamese Lunar New Year traditions**.*

This custom reminds people to live virtuously and maintain the warmth of the family kitchen. The kitchen is viewed as the keeper of happiness and wealth. Sending off the Kitchen Gods expresses the wish for blessings in the coming year.

*A traditional Kitchen God worship altar, a vital part of Vietnamese Tet culture.*

2. Making Banh Chung - Banh Tet

Tet celebration is complete without the flavors of Banh Chung and Banh Tet. Wrapping these cakes is one of the Vietnamese Lunar New Year traditions that brings family members together. The square Banh Chung represents the Earth, while the cylindrical Banh Tet represents the Sky.

The ingredients include sticky rice, mung beans, and pork belly, seasoned with pepper. Everything is carefully wrapped in green "Dong" leaves or banana leaves. The process of boiling the cakes often lasts throughout the night before New Year's Eve.

The aroma of new sticky rice blending with the smoke of the wood fire creates an unforgettable memory. This is the culinary essence of Hoi An Lunar New Year culture.

*Locals wrapping Banh Chung, preserving the beauty of Hoi An Lunar New Year culture.*

3. Lucky Money Tradition (Li Xi)

Giving red envelopes is the cultural beauty most anticipated by children. This custom is one of the most popular Vietnamese Lunar New Year traditions. The lucky money symbolizes best wishes for health, growth, and academic success.

Elders give "Li Xi" to children accompanied by words of wisdom and encouragement. In return, children and grandchildren also give lucky money to grandparents. This gesture is to wish them longevity and good health.

*Giving red envelopes is one of the most beloved Vietnamese Lunar New Year traditions.*

The value of the red envelope lies not in the money inside. It lies in the giver's goodwill and love. Vietnamese Tet culture always prioritizes these spiritual values over material ones.

4. First Spring Outing and Picking New Year Blessings

"Xuat hanh" or the first outing of the year involves leaving the house at a propitious hour. This is one of the Hoi An Lunar New Year culture aimed at welcoming prosperity. The direction of departure is often carefully chosen based on the Chinese zodiac signs.

*Visiting temples for blessings reflects the spiritual aspect of Hoi An Lunar New Year culture*

Picking new year blessings is also a beautiful custom at temples and pagodas. People used to pick a young branch to bring home as a symbol of vitality. However, nowadays, this has shifted to buying sugar cane or ornamental plants.

In Hoi An, locals often visit the Japanese Covered Bridge or assembly halls for prayers. The atmosphere is solemn yet filled with the joy of the new year. This is a unique aspect of Hoi An Lunar New Year culture.

5. Sightseeing Tet Flower Market - A Traditional Vietnamese New Year Custom

Visiting the flower market is a must-do activity before Tet to prepare for the holiday. It is one of the most colorful Vietnamese Lunar New Year traditions observed nationwide. The vibrant colors of fresh flowers are believed to bring luck and prosperity to the home.

*The colorful scene of a flower market is iconic to Vietnamese Tet culture.*

In Hoi An, the flower markets along the streets are incredibly lively and fragrant. Walking through these markets is a sensory delight when traveling to Hoi An during the Lunar New Year. It offers a perfect backdrop for memorable festive photos.

*Vibrant flower markets are a key aspect of **Vietnamese Lunar New Year traditions**.*

6. Festive Activities and New Year Celebrations in Hoi An

Hoi An is famous for its shimmering festivals during the early days of the year. The Vietnamese Lunar New Year traditions here are elevated by the ancient architectural backdrop. The lantern festival turns the old town into a magical, glowing painting.

Visitors can participate in folk games such as "Bai Choi" or Loto (Bingo). Traditional music resonates through the small alleys, creating a bustling atmosphere. This is a highlight for anyone traveling to Hoi An during the Lunar New Year.

*Playing Loto (Bingo) is a fun game to try when traveling to Hoi An during the Lunar New Year*

III. 3 Essential Tips for Traveling to Hoi An During the Lunar New Year

To ensure a perfect trip, there are important notes you should keep in mind. Understanding Vietnamese Lunar New Year traditions will help you integrate better with the locals. Here are three essential tips for you.

Book in advance: Hoi An becomes very crowded during Tet. You should book your room at Laluna Hoi An Riverside Hotel & Spa at least one month prior. This guarantees you a perfect riverside retreat during the peak season.
Prepare suitable attire: The weather in Hoi An during Tet is often cool with light drizzle. Bring a light jacket and an umbrella when going out. Do not forget to pack an Ao Dai for stunning photos.
Plan your itinerary carefully: Many local eateries and shops close on the first days of the year for family reunions. This practice is widely respected as a fundamental part of Vietnamese Lunar New Year traditions. Checking opening schedules in advance ensures your culinary and sightseeing plans proceed smoothly without interruption.

*A tourist wearing Ao Dai enjoying Traveling to Hoi An during the Lunar New Year.*

IV. Conclusion

Immersing yourself in Vietnamese Lunar New Year traditions offers a unique opportunity to connect with the local heritage. Laluna Hoi An Riverside Hotel & Spa is ready to be your perfect accommodation, ensuring a comfortable and memorable festive holiday. Plan your trip now to enjoy the magic of spring in Hoi An with an exclusive journey waiting for you.

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LALUNA HOIAN RIVERSIDE HOTEL & SPA

Address: 12 Nguyen Du Street, Hoi An Ward, Da Nang

Phone: (+84) 0702 625 168 - (+84) 2353 666 678

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