5 Unique Tet Activities of Kim Son Craft Village in Vietnam

Vietnam is home to a rich heritage of traditional craftsmanship, with craft villages in Vietnam playing a vital role in preserving cultural values. Among them, Kim Son Craft Village stands out not only for its exceptional handicrafts but also for its vibrant Tet celebrations. 

As a brand deeply connected to Vietnam’s artisan communities, Artera Home invites you to explore five cherished Tet traditions in Kim Son. From festive preparations to age-old customs, these cultural activities offer a glimpse into the heart of Vietnam’s most anticipated holiday.

1. Preparations for the Tet Holiday

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

People here also like to decorate their homes with colorful flowers, especially peach blossoms and kumquat trees. These beautiful flowers bring a festive touch to the surroundings and symbolize growth, prosperity and good fortune. The sight and scent of these flowers really lifts our spirits and brings joy to the village.

>> Read more: Vietnamese Traditional Villages - 4 Reasons for Kim Son’s Recognition

2. Traditional Foods in Vietnamese Craft Villages

Tet is the time when culinary traditions shine, and craft villages like Kim Son take pride in preparing and enjoying traditional dishes. Among the most beloved are Banh Chung (square sticky rice cake) and Banh Day (round sticky rice cake), which symbolize Earth and Sky, respectively. 

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

These sacred dishes are essential offerings to ancestors, expressing gratitude and seeking blessings for the coming year. Other Tet delicacies enjoyed in Kim Son include:

• Jellied meat (Thit Dong) – A dish symbolizing harmony and togetherness
• Head cheese (Gio Thu) – A savory, gelatinous dish made from pork head meat
• Steamed momordica glutinous rice (Xoi Gac) – A vibrant red sticky rice dish symbolizing luck
• Vietnamese chicken glass noodle soup (Mien Ga) – A warm and hearty meal for family gatherings.

These dishes, rich in symbolism and flavor, bring families together during this cherished holiday.

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.

>> Read more: Journey to Vietnam's Traditional Craft Villages

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

4. Visiting Relatives and Strengthening Community Bonds

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.

>> Related: Discovering Vietnam's Artisanal Communities

Visiting relatives and friends for giving wishes or gifts

5. Traditional Activities and Festivals

5.1 Festive Performances and Games

At Kim Son, we celebrate Tet with a range of traditional activities that bring our village to life: 

• Dragon and lion dances – Performed to bring prosperity and ward off evil spirits
• Folk games and competitions – Engaging activities such as boat racing and traditional Vietnamese games
• Water puppetry – A centuries-old performance art reflecting Vietnamese rural life

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.

>> Related: Kim Son Craft Village And All You Should Know

Tet traditional activities in craft villages in Vietnam

5.2 Nearby Cultural Festivals

Kim Son, one of northern Vietnam craft villages, is surrounded by a wealth of famous festivals:

• Tran Temple Festival (Ninh Binh) – Honoring General Tran Hung Dao
• Keo Pagoda Festival (Thai Binh) – A spiritual celebration of Buddhist traditions
• Huong Pagoda Festival (Hanoi) – Vietnam’s largest pilgrimage festival

These festivals provide an opportunity to immerse in Vietnam’s diverse cultural heritage and experience its vibrant traditions firsthand.

Tran Temple Festival in Ninh Binh province

Kim Son Craft Village offers an unforgettable Tet experience, where centuries-old traditions meet vibrant celebrations. From preparing symbolic dishes to participating in lively performances and ancestral rituals, every moment embodies Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage.

Discover more about Vietnam’s craft villages and celebrate Tet with authentic, artisan-made decor from Artera Home!