While much of the world rings in January 1st, Vietnam lights up for Tết Nguyên Đán – its dazzling Lunar New Year festival! As the Year of the Dragon dawns, we join Thanh Truc, a Hanoi local, to explore traditions blending ancient rituals with modern joy.
More Than Just Firecrackers 
From bánh chưng (sticky rice cakes wrapped in banana leaves) to homes adorned with peach blossoms, Tết is a feast for the senses. Thanh laughs: \"We clean everything – even old grudges! It’s about fresh starts.\"
Red Envelopes & Lion Dances 

Watch streets explode with múa lân (lion dances) as elders gift lì xì – lucky money in crimson envelopes. \"Kids love it,\" says Thanh, \"but it’s really about connecting generations.\"
Dragons, Dumplings, and Digital Cheers 
While ancestral altars glow with offerings, TikTok trends now showcase Tết outfits! Thanh shares: \"We’re blending tradition with our own flair. That’s Vietnamese spirit!\"
Ready to dive deeper? Follow #Tet2024 for real-time dragon dances and recipe hacks!
Reference(s):
My Spring Festival Story: How Vietnamese celebrate the Lunar New Year
cgtn.com