Family celebrations around Tet include preparing the home, sharing food, exchanging greetings and visiting relatives. These activities turn New Year wishes into time spent together; individual households may follow different routines.
Prepare the home before the holiday
Cleaning and decorating are part of getting ready for Tet. Flowers and seasonal plants add colour, while families prepare food for the days ahead. Preparation is one part of the celebration, distinct from the visits that follow.
Share food and New Year wishes
Sticky rice cakes such as banh chung and banh tet are associated with the holiday. Families also share snacks with guests. Children may receive lucky-money envelopes alongside wishes for the new year.
Arrange visits with the household
Visiting relatives and friends is an important custom. The first visitor of the year has special significance in some households, so arrange a visit with the host rather than assuming an unannounced call is welcome. Follow the family's preferred timing.
Flowers and New Year greetings also feature in seasonal displays.
For the broader meaning of the holiday, see the introduction to Tet Nguyen Dan.