Do and Don't During Tet holiday in Vietnam
Tet is the most significant holiday in Vietnam, marking the Lunar New Year and serving as a vital time for families to reunite and enjoy time off. The festival normally lasts from the last days of the lunar calendar year to several days into the new lunar year. In 2026, Tet will be celebrated from February 18 to February 22. During this time, various customs dictate behaviors and etiquette; tourists are encouraged to be mindful of these traditions, especially when invited to join a Vietnamese family during Tet.
DOs
Pay All Debts Before Tet
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Prior to Tet, individuals should settle any debts and return borrowed items. It is widely believed that starting the new year with outstanding debts can lead to financial troubles throughout the year.
Lucky Money
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On the first day of Tet, it is customary for adults, particularly those who are married and have stable incomes, to prepare "lucky money" (li xi) to give to children and younger relatives. This gesture symbolizes good fortune for the upcoming year, and participants also extend warm wishes to one another, promoting joy and positivity.
Gift-Exchanging
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Exchanging gifts is a common practice during Tet, especially in business contexts. Giving and receiving gifts fosters stronger relationships between colleagues and clients. Popular gifts include sweets, chocolates, fruit baskets, and beverages. Gift packs with an assortment of treats are widely available in stores. If you're working with Vietnamese partners, this is a perfect opportunity to strengthen those connections.
Buy and Wear New Clothes
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During Tet, it is customary for people to wear new and festive clothing. The streets come alive with vibrant colors, including traditional ao dai. Bright colors such as red, yellow, and blue are thought to attract good fortune and happiness for the new year.
Smile
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A critical aspect of Tet is the spirit of joy and positivity. Smiling fosters a relaxed atmosphere and strengthens connections among people. To usher in a prosperous new year, individuals are encouraged to stay cheerful and avoid negativity, aiming to carry this happiness into the future.
DONTs
Argue, Swear, and Say Bad Things
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During Tet, it is essential to maintain a positive environment. Avoid using harsh language or discussing negative topics like death. Arguments should be avoided, as conflict can foreshadow a challenging year ahead. When faced with disagreements, strive to remain calm and composed.
Commit Cruelty
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Engaging in acts of cruelty, such as hurting animals, is highly discouraged. Instead, many choose to release birds as a symbolic gesture for freedom and goodwill. The sale of birds at pagodas is common during Tet, reflecting Buddhist principles that promote kindness and compassion.
Sweep House
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It is advised to refrain from sweeping the house or disposing of trash, particularly on the first day of the new year. The belief is that such actions could sweep away good fortune and prosperity. When visiting others' homes during Tet, try to keep things tidy and ask the hosts before initiating any cleaning.
Wear Black Clothes
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Avoid wearing white or black clothing on the first day of Tet, as these colors are traditionally associated with funerals in Vietnam. Instead, opt for colorful attire that symbolizes joy and new beginnings.
Then what color should I wear for Tet? If black and white aren't allowed, what other colors can I wear?
You can wear any color except black during this holiday. In Vietnam, red is considered as luck, especially in Tet holiday!
other colours
Folk Games During Tet Holidays
In the country area, Tet is often a holiday to celebrate with games, folk singing and village feasts. Get to know some of the most popular communal games during Tet holiday.
Visiting Pagodas On New Year Days
Together with the festive atmosphere Tet brings to Vietnam every year, the event also the best time of the year for Vietnamese to show their religious belief and traditional custom. Among them, visiting pagodas on the first days of the year has long been a lofty tradition.
Do and Don't When Xong Dat
Tet Nguyen Dan- the biggest festival of the year- plays an extremely essential role in Vietnamese’s beliefs and culture. Among many complicated religious rituals performed in this occasion, “xong dat” (first visit to a home in a year) is believed to decide the fortune of the host for the whole year.
