Lunar New Year (Tết Nguyên Đán) is a time of blooming peach blossoms, New Year greetings, and, most importantly, the Lì Xì tradition. Every Tết, Vietnamese families – especially the elders – give lì xì to children, relatives, and friends to wish them luck, health, and prosperity in the coming year. But have you ever wondered why it’s called “lì xì”? Lì xì is more than just a red envelope with money; it’s a gift of luck, a token of love, and a wish for success, health, and happiness for the recipient.
A wedding is not just an event to celebrate a union; it’s a grand festival where love, family, and cultural traditions come together. In Vietnam, weddings are not just about two people getting married—they are about bringing together families and friends to celebrate, respect, and honor traditions. Whether in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, or any other part of the country, each wedding carries its own unique style, but they all share one common point: romance and respect.
Sustainable living is more than just a trend; it’s a way of life that harmonizes human activities with the natural world, ensuring the well-being of our planet for future generations. Rural Vietnam is a vivid tableau of such practices, where sustainable agriculture, traditional architecture, and community-driven conservation efforts paint a picture of a society living in close communion with nature. This article explores these aspects, offering a glimpse into the harmonious balance between human existence and environmental stewardship in the Vietnamese countryside.
Đông Hồ folk paintings, are a treasured form of Vietnamese folk art that originated from Đông Hồ village in Bắc Ninh Province, northern Vietnam. With their vivid colors, simple yet meaningful depictions of life, and strong ties to Vietnamese culture and tradition, these prints are not only artistic expressions but also serve as historical records of Vietnam’s cultural identity. Over centuries, Đông Hồ paintings have retained their significance, illustrating the everyday lives, beliefs, and values of the Vietnamese people.
When it comes to Bún Bò Huế, it’s hard to resist the charm of a steaming bowl of noodles bursting with spicy and rich flavors. More than just a dish, it represents a story of culinary tradition, showcasing the quintessence, sophistication, and deep love for cooking that defines the people of Central Vietnam.
During the Vietnamese Lunar New Year (Tết), two iconic dishes – Bánh Chưng and Bánh Tét – are indispensable symbols of the celebration. These rice cakes are not only delicious but also rich in cultural significance, representing gratitude to ancestors and the universe. Whether families enjoy the square-shaped Bánh Chưng from the North or the cylindrical Bánh Tét from the South, they celebrate the arrival of a new year filled with peace, prosperity, and unity.
Vietnamese folk beliefs, which combine animism, ancestor worship, Buddhism, and Confucianism, are firmly ingrained in the history and cultural traditions of the nation. Worldviews, customs, & rituals are shaped by these beliefs, which significantly impact daily life. They symbolize the spiritual bond between humans, the natural and spiritual worlds.
Vietnamese bánh xèo, a beloved traditional dish, is more than just food—it’s a cultural symbol and a point of pride for Vietnam. With its crispy golden crust, savory filling, and irresistible dipping sauce, bánh xèo has gained a devoted following both locally and internationally. This article explores everything about bánh xèo, from its origins to its preparation and global appeal.
Vietnam is home to 54 ethnic groups, each contributing to the nation’s rich cultural tapestry. Over centuries, these groups have shared a deep bond, united in their struggle for independence, their protection of territorial integrity, and their efforts to build a prosperous nation. The diversity of their unique traditions, languages, and lifestyles has created a vibrant culture, celebrated for its unity in diversity.
The nhà sàn, or stilt houses, is a traditional architectural style prevalent among various ethnic groups in the Central Highlands of Vietnam, particularly the Ede, Jarai, Bahnar, and K’ho people. These unique structures are designed to adapt to the region’s geographical and climatic conditions, as well as to meet the cultural and social needs of the communities.