BÀI THUYẾT TRÌNH NHÓM
The Significance of Lunar New Year – Tradition and Modernity
Minh - (1. Introduction)
\Dear teachers and friends
At the beginning of the new year, I would like to wish teachers, friends and the
whole family a new year of health, happiness and full of energy to achieve all wishes for
a bright future.
On the occasion of the beginning of the new year, I am very happy to present the
topic of Tet in Vietnam to our class.
Let me introduce myself, my name is Do Minh Nam, currently, I am a student at
Hung Yen University of Technical Education, and I work as a lecturer of management
information systems at the University of Finance and Business Administration.
In this presentation, I will focus on its cultural significance, traditional practices,
modern adaptations, and the impact it has on Vietnamese society. By the end, you will
have a better understanding of why Tet is more than just a holiday; it is a celebration of
heritage, renewal, and hop
Historical Background)
Tet Nguyen Dan marks the start of the lunar calendar and has been celebrated for
thousands of years. Historically, it was a time to honor ancestors, welcome spring, and
pray for a prosperous year. Rooted in agricultural traditions, Tet reflects gratitude for the
harvest and hopes for favorable weather and abundant crops in the coming year.
Traditional Customs and Practices of Lunar New Year (Tết) in
Vietnam
Tết Nguyên Đán, or Lunar New Year in Vietnam, is celebrated with a variety of customs and
practices that emphasize renewal, family unity, and respect for traditions. These rituals are
deeply rooted in Vietnamese culture and reflect values such as gratitude, prosperity, and
harmony. Here are the key traditional customs and practices:
1. Preparations for Tết
Cleaning and Decorating the House:
o Homes are thoroughly cleaned and organized before Tết to sweep away bad luck
and welcome good fortune.
o Doors are decorated with red parallel sentences (câu đối) and kumquat trees,
peach blossoms, or apricot flowers, symbolizing prosperity and happiness.
Shopping at Tết Markets:
o Families visit bustling Tết markets to buy decorations, fresh flowers, food, and
gifts.
2. Family Reunion and Ancestral Worship
Reunion Dinner:
o On the eve of Tết, families gather for a feast symbolizing unity and gratitude.
Traditional dishes such as bánh chưng (square sticky rice cake) and bánh tét
(cylindrical sticky rice cake) are served.
Ancestral Worship:
o Families prepare altars with offerings such as fruits, rice cakes, and incense to
honor their ancestors and invite them to celebrate Tết together.
3. Rituals and Beliefs
Giao Thừa (New Year’s Eve Ceremony):
o A sacred moment where offerings are made to the Land Gods and ancestors to
mark the transition into the new year.
Xông Đất (First-Footer Tradition):
o The first person to enter a household after midnight is believed to determine the
family’s fortune for the year. Families often invite someone with good fortune to
perform this role.
4. Traditional Foods
Bánh Chưng and Bánh Tét:
o These sticky rice cakes, wrapped in banana leaves, symbolize gratitude and
harmony with nature.
Pickled Vegetables and Meat:
o Dishes like pickled onions and boiled chicken are staples during Tết, symbolizing
abundance.
Mứt Tết (Candied Fruits):
o Assorted candied fruits are offered to guests and ancestors, symbolizing
sweetness and good fortune.
5. Giving and Receiving Lì Xì (Red Envelopes)
Elders give red envelopes filled with money to children and younger relatives,
symbolizing blessings for health, luck, and prosperity in the new year.
6. Visiting Relatives and Friends
During Tết, people visit family, friends, and neighbors to exchange greetings, share
meals, and strengthen bonds. Special emphasis is placed on visiting elders and close
relatives.
7. Traditional Games and Entertainment
Popular activities during Tết include traditional games like bầu cua cá cọp (a gambling
game) and lion dances to bring good luck.
8. Worshiping the Kitchen Gods (Táo Quân)
A few days before Tết, families bid farewell to the Kitchen Gods, who report to the Jade
Emperor about the household’s activities over the past year. Offerings such as carp fish
(released into rivers) and traditional food are made.
Conclusion
The traditional customs and practices of Tết are a beautiful blend of cultural values and rituals
that emphasize renewal, gratitude, and family togetherness. These time-honored traditions
continue to hold deep meaning for Vietnamese people, preserving their cultural identity across
generations.
Ngát - 4. Symbolism and Cultural Beliefs)
Tet is filled with symbolic meanings:
Fireworks and Drums: Used to ward off evil spirits and welcome prosperity.
Zodiac Animals: Each year is associated with one of the 12 zodiac animals,
influencing predictions for luck and fortune.
Colors: Red and yellow dominate decorations, symbolizing happiness, luck, and
prosperity.
Nhuần - (5. Modern Adaptations and Challenges)
While traditional values remain, modern influences have reshaped how Tet is
celebrated:
Urban Celebrations: Cities host parades, festivals, and fireworks, making Tet
more vibrant and accessible.
Commercialization: Tet has become a peak shopping season, with
advertisements promoting gifts and decorations.
Globalization: Vietnamese communities abroad celebrate Tet, blending old
customs with new cultural influences.
Environmental Concerns: The use of fireworks and excessive waste during
celebrations has raised awareness about sustainable practices.
hóa mới. Mối quan ngại về môi trường: Việc sử dụng pháo hoa và chất thải quá mức
trong các lễ kỷ niệm đã nâng cao nhận thức về các hoạt động bền vững.)
Nhung - (6. Economic and Social Impact)
Tet also has significant economic and social impacts:
Economic Boost: Businesses experience increased sales due to gift-giving
traditions and holiday shopping.
Family Reunions: Millions of people travel to reunite with their families,
reinforcing social bonds.
Cultural Preservation: Despite modernization, Tet remains a symbol of cultural
pride and heritage, helping younger generations stay connected to their roots.
(Conclusion)
To summarize, Tet Nguyen Dan is not just a celebration; it is a reflection of
Vietnamese identity, cultural heritage, and aspirations for the future. While it has evolved
with modern influences, its core values of respect, renewal, and unity remain intact. I
encourage everyone to embrace and preserve these traditions as they continue to shape
our cultural identity. Thank you for your attention, and I welcome any questions you may
have.
Once again, I wish you and your teachers a new year of health, happiness and
success in life.
