During these days, crowds of visitors flock to Phat Tich Pagoda in the Lao capital city of Vientiane. They come to pray for peace and good health for themselves and their loved ones.
Phan Tien Anh, a resident of Laos for many years, mentioned that his family maintains this practice to educate their children about Vietnam’s tradition and to pray for a New Year filled with good health, happiness, and peace.
Nguyen Thi Bich Lien, who was born and raised in Laos, shared that her family visits pagodas on the 30th day of the last lunar month to experience the sacred atmosphere of Tet.
For every Vietnamese citizen, the cultural significance of visiting pagodas at the beginning of the lunar year goes beyond just a tradition. It is also an opportunity for families to pass on the values of Tet (Lunar New Year) to future generations.
Golden books of Nguyen Dynasty – Vietnam’s sacred imperial treasures
A collection of golden books of the Nguyen Dynasty was opened to the public in March. The Nguyen Dynasty was a powerful Vietnamese dynasty whose 13 Kings ruled for 143 years.
Lucky money giveaway – an exchange of best New Year wishes
Giving away lucky money is a traditional Lunar New Year (Tet) custom through which Vietnamese people exchange the best wishes with one another, hoping for a year of peace and good luck.
Vietnamese Expatriates Long for Tet in Their Homeland
Nguyen Thi Thao, a Washington D.C.-based Vietnamese expatriate, is committed to preserving the traditions of her homeland. Each year, she lovingly prepares chung cake and organizes a family shopping trip to celebrate Tet, the Lunar New Year. Through these rituals, she hopes to instill in her children and grandchildren a sense of the authentic flavors and customs associated with Vietnamese Tet.
