The Vietnamese Lunar New Year (Tết Nguyên Đán) is a time filled with rich culture and meaningful customs. These traditions are essential in bringing families together and celebrating new beginnings. Festive Decorations and Foods During Tet, homes are beautifully decorated. In Northern Vietnam, the peach blossom is a very popular flower. Many families also display a kumquat tree, which is adorned with many small orange fruits symbolizing prosperity. Food plays a central role in the celebrations. Banh chung, a traditional sticky rice cake, is a must-have dish that represents the earth and the sky in Vietnamese folklore. Customs and Beliefs On New Year's Day, children offer wishes to their elders and receive lucky money in red envelopes, a highly anticipated tradition. The first person to step into a house on the first day of the year is believed to bring luck for the entire year and is referred to as the "first footer". Families prepare a five-fruit tray and other offerings, placing them on the family altar to honor their ancestors and show respect. Certain actions are also avoided to ensure good fortune. For example, people generally don't sweep the floor during Tet, as it might mean sweeping away good luck. Celebrations and Activities On New Year's Eve, public places light up with colorful fireworks displays, which people gather to watch. Throughout the holiday, people engage in various activities. Traditionally, on the third day of Tet, many people visit their teachers or relatives. Visiting a pagoda to pray for health, luck, and happiness is another common and peaceful activity during this special time of year.