The Lunar New Year parade, now an integral part of the city’s cultural fabric, marked its fifth anniversary with a vibrant celebration. The event has successfully recreated the essence of the traditional Tet holiday while fostering a sense of community among locals and tourists alike.
The procession commenced on Dao Duy Tu Street, meandering through the heart of Hanoi, including Cho Gao, Tran Nhat Duat, and Hang Buom Streets. It passed by several historic landmarks such as O Quan Chuong, the last remaining gate of the Thang Long Imperial Citadel, and Bach Ma Temple, before concluding at Kim Ngan Temple, filling the air with rhythmic drumbeats and melodious music along the way.
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The vibrant parade makes its way down Dao Duy Tu Street, captivating onlookers. Photo: Nguyen Hien / Tuoi Tre |
Adorned in exquisite traditional attire, the participants showcased a diverse range of Vietnamese fashion, including the elegant ao tac, a variation of the iconic ao dai, along with the ao ngu than, ao nhat binh, and ao giao linh, each with its unique style and historical significance.
The procession was a spectacle to behold, featuring lion dancers, ceremonial object bearers, xoan singers, and groups donning various traditional outfits. This year, there was a notable emphasis on adhering to strict costume guidelines, and the participation of youth in this time-honored ritual was encouraging.
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A vibrant traditional dance performance adds a splash of color to the Old Quarter. Photo: Nguyen Hien / Tuoi Tre |
Nguyen Nga, a member of the organizing team, expressed her delight at the increased interest in Vietnamese culture among young people, especially their fascination with traditional clothing. She believes that actively involving youth in such rituals fosters a deeper appreciation and understanding of their nation’s cultural heritage.
Alex, a British tourist, shared his excitement about witnessing the parade on Cau Go Street. He chose Vietnam as his travel destination specifically to immerse himself in the unique cultural experience of the Vietnamese Tet holiday.
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Elegant women donning the ‘ao tu than’, a traditional northern costume, grace the streets of Hanoi. Photo: Nguyen Hien / Tuoi Tre |
The celebrations also included important ceremonies such as offerings to the local deity, honoring craftsmen, and the raising of cay neu, a symbolic bamboo tree believed to offer protection during Tet. Artisans showcased their calligraphy skills, and folk music filled the air, creating an authentic Tet atmosphere.
In the days that followed, the Old Quarter buzzed with activities reflecting Tet customs. Kim Ngan Temple, a heritage house on Ma May Street, and the Hanoi Old Quarter Cultural Exchange Center became hubs of traditional Tet celebrations, inviting visitors to step back in time and experience the charm of old Hanoi during this festive season.
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Young enthusiasts eagerly participate in the ‘Tet Viet – Tet Pho’ program, bringing the Old Quarter to life. Photo: Nguyen Hien / Tuoi Tre |
These venues were meticulously decorated to evoke the spirit of traditional Tet, providing a unique opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in ancient Hanoi’s festive traditions. Exhibitions and interactive spaces encouraged dialogue and appreciation for Vietnamese paintings and calligraphy, fostering a deeper connection to the country’s rich cultural heritage.