As the year draws to a close, the festive spirit of Tet has spread across every corner of Vietnam. From the bustling old quarter streets of Hanoi to remote construction sites and rural spring flower markets, everywhere is vibrant with red flags, colorful flowers, and the joy of family reunions.
Decorating Homes for Tet
People are busy decorating their homes with peach blossoms (đào), kumquat trees (quất), and various fresh flowers. Elegant peach branches are prominently displayed in living rooms on Hang Ca Street.
After completing their business, many families gather for a warm year-end meal (mâm cơm tất niên) before performing the traditional “hóa vàng” ritual (burning votive papers).
Tet Atmosphere in Neighborhoods
Dong Xuan Alley – an area famous for its vibrant eateries – has temporarily ceased operations in preparation for the New Year.
In the Old Quarter, people are still busy shopping for the last-minute items for Tet.
Cityscape on Year-End Day
Central roads, such as those around Hoan Kiem Lake, become crowded with families gathering to enjoy themselves and take souvenir photos in the cool weather, around 18-21 degrees Celsius.
Meanwhile, streets further from the city center are quite deserted, creating a peaceful space for residents to rest.
Year-End Commercial Activities
Even on the last day of the year, some “bia hơi” (draft beer) shops remain open to serve customers. Notably, the market area on Nguyen Thien Thuat Street is still bustling with people buying ready-made food.
Workers Away From Home
At the construction site for the National Highway 9 overpass, part of the Van Ninh – Cam Lo expressway project, workers are still diligently working and preparing to celebrate Tet away from home.
Mr. Hoang Huu Trung (51 years old) shared: “Last year at this time, I had already returned to my hometown to clean the house, buy a peach tree, and kumquats. This year, my wife has to take on all the household responsibilities.”
Spring Flower Markets and Traditional Rituals
The spring flower market in Giao Thuy district (Nam Dinh province) remains bustling with shoppers, even as Tet Eve approaches.
In Hue, families of the Nguyen Phuc imperial lineage prepare for the ancestral worship ritual to invite their ancestors home for Tet, a characteristic tradition of the former imperial capital.
Conclusion
The year-end afternoon is a special moment when the entire country unites in the festive atmosphere of preparing for Tet Nguyen Dan (Lunar New Year). Wherever they are, whatever they do, every Vietnamese person turns towards family and cherished traditional values. Let’s dedicate this precious time to reunite with loved ones and preserve unforgettable moments.
Source: dantri.com.vn
