The True Origins of Vietnam’s Lunar New Year

Tet Nguyen Dan, commonly known as Tet, is the most important festival in Vietnam, marking the arrival of the Lunar New Year. As a time of family reunions, remembrance of ancestors, and the welcoming of spring, Tet carries deep cultural and spiritual significance. While its origins remain a subject of debate, historical evidence suggests that Tet has been celebrated in Vietnam for thousands of years, possibly predating Chinese influence in the region.

The Meaning of Tet Nguyen Dan

The term "Tet" is derived from the Sino-Vietnamese word for "festival," while "Nguyen Dan" means "first morning" in classical Chinese characters. Together, they signify the first day of the new year according to the lunar calendar. Like other traditional Asian New Year celebrations, Tet follows the lunar cycle and usually falls between late January and mid-February. The festival spans several days, beginning with preparations in the final week of the old year and continuing into the first week of the new year.

Does Tet Originate from China?

One common belief is that Tet was introduced to Vietnam during the 1,000-year period of Chinese rule. Indeed, the lunar calendar and many Confucian customs associated with the holiday are shared with China and other East Asian cultures. However, historical records and Vietnamese folklore suggest that the festival may have existed in Vietnam long before Chinese influence took root.

A key piece of evidence comes from the legend of "Banh Chung and Banh Day," which dates back to the era of the Hung Kings, Vietnam’s earliest recorded rulers. According to the legend, King Hung VI held a contest to determine his successor, and a prince named Lang Lieu won by presenting simple yet meaningful rice cakes symbolizing the Earth and the sky. This story suggests that Tet, or at least a similar agricultural festival, was already celebrated in Vietnam before Chinese rule began.

Additionally, some historical texts indicate that Tet may have existed in Vietnam even before the era of the Three Sovereigns and Five Emperors in ancient China. Confucius once wrote in the Book of Rites: "I do not know what Tet is, but I have heard that it is a great festival of the Man people, during which they dance wildly, drink alcohol, and feast." Another historical document, Giao Chi Chi, states: "The people of Giao Quan often gather in groups to sing, dance, and celebrate for several days to welcome a new farming season. Not only farmers but also the families of Quan Lang and Chua Dong participate in this festival." These accounts suggest that Tet has deep Vietnamese origins, predating external influences.

Vietnamese vs. Chinese New Year: Similarities and Differences

While Tet shares similarities with the Chinese New Year (often called the Spring Festival), it has evolved to reflect Vietnam’s distinct cultural identity. Both holidays are based on the lunar calendar, involve family reunions, and include traditions such as ancestor worship and festive banquets. However, there are key differences:

Unique Foods: Banh Chung (square sticky rice cake) and Banh Day (round sticky rice cake) are signature Tet foods that do not exist in Chinese traditions.
Decorations and Symbolism: Peach blossoms (in the north) and apricot blossoms (in the south) are iconic symbols of Tet, differing from the red lanterns commonly seen in China.
Zodiac Differences: While both cultures use the 12-animal zodiac cycle, Vietnam replaces the Chinese Ox with the Buffalo, the Rabbit with the Cat, and sometimes makes other small changes.
Spiritual Practices: Tet strongly emphasizes ancestral veneration, with families offering elaborate feasts and burning incense to honor their deceased relatives.

Tet Nguyen Dan is an essential part of Vietnamese culture, deeply rooted in agricultural traditions, ancestral reverence, and community spirit. While it shares some similarities with the Chinese New Year due to historical interactions, Tet has a uniquely Vietnamese character shaped by centuries of tradition. Whether its origins stem from China or ancient Vietnamese customs, Tet remains a cherished celebration that marks renewal, gratitude, and joy for millions of Vietnamese people worldwide.