Craft Villages in Vietnam: 5 Cultural Tet Activities in Kim Son

The Tet holiday, also known as the Lunar New Year, holds great significance in Vietnamese culture. As a brand from Vietnam with a close relationship with the artisans of Kim Son Craft Village, we are here to share with you 5 cultural Tet activities at Kim Son, one of the craft villages in Vietnam.

1. Preparations for the Tet holiday

At Kim Son, we often clean thoroughly as part of the Tet festival in craft villages. It symbolizes our desire to sweep away the old and welcome the new year with a fresh start. This tradition creates a clean and welcoming environment and represents the anticipation of new beginnings and the hope for a prosperous year ahead.

We also enjoy decorating our homes with colorful flowers, particularly the peach blossoms and the kumquat trees. These beautiful blooms add a festive touch to our surroundings and symbolize growth, prosperity, and good luck. The sight and fragrance of these flowers truly uplift our spirits and bring joy to the village.

Preparing for Tet holiday with decorating with peach blossom or yellow apricot tree

2. Traditional foods at craft villages in Vietnam

Tet is a time when our culinary traditions shine in craft villages in Vietnam. We take immense pride in preparing and savoring various traditional dishes. One of our favorites is Banh Chung, the square sticky rice cake, which represents the Earth. We also enjoy Banh Day, the round sticky rice cake symbolizing the Sky. These are delicious and hold deep cultural significance as essential offerings to our ancestors during Tet. They allow us to express gratitude and seek blessings for a harmonious and prosperous year ahead.

Cooking Banh Chung as a tradition food in Kim Son craft village

Another food that we consider famous during Tet in Kim Son is Jellied meat, head cheese, steamed momordica glutinous rice and Vietnamese chicken glass noodle soup. These cuisines feature seasoned and preserved meats for family gatherings, strengthening our bonds during this special time.

Another famous dishes in Tet holiday in northern Vietnam

3. Traditional customs and rituals

One activity we never miss during the Tet holiday is paying our respects to our ancestors at the family altar, burning incense, and offering food and drinks. This act of reverence creates a sacred atmosphere and deepens our connection with our heritage. It is believed that by honoring our ancestors, we invite their blessings of good fortune and protection for the entire year.

Worshiping our ancestors to show gratitude and wish for a fulfilling year

4. Visiting relatives

Tet is all about family reunions and heartfelt connections. We embrace the tradition of visiting our relatives and friends during this festive season. On the first day of Tet holiday, we gather to exchange warm wishes and thoughtful gifts. These visits strengthen our family bonds and foster a sense of unity within our craft villages in Vietnam. The laughter, conversations, and shared experiences create cherished memories that last a lifetime.

Visiting relatives and friends for giving wishes or gifts

5. Traditional activities

At Kim Son, we celebrate Tet with a range of traditional activities that bring our village to life. We take great delight in vibrant dragon and lion dances that fill the streets with energy and excitement. Folk games and century-old performances, such as water puppetry and boat racing. These activities not only entertain but also carry deep cultural significance. We believe they bring good luck and ward off any negative influences, ensuring a prosperous year for everyone in our community.

Tet traditional activities in craft villages in Vietnam

Kim Son, one of northern Vietnam craft villages, is surrounded by a wealth of famous festivals. Tran Temple Festival in Ninh Binh, Keo Pagoda Festival in Thai Binh, and Huong Pagoda Festival in Hanoi are just a few examples. These festivals allow us to immerse ourselves in the diverse traditions and customs of Vietnam. They provide an opportunity to witness the vibrant cultural tapestry that our country proudly showcases.

Tran Temple Festival in Ninh Binh province

By participating in these traditions, you'll gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for the unique customs that define Tet in Vietnam. If you want to dive deeper into our heritage and culture, explore our handicrafts that represent the essence of Kim Son, one of the craft villages in Vietnam.