TẾT: YEAR OF THE SNAKE

1/27/2025 10:00:04 AM

As the Lunar New Year approaches, people around the world are preparing to celebrate the arrival of the Year of the Snake, also known as Tet.

This joyous occasion is a time for families and friends to come together, reflect on the past year, and look forward to the new one. In Vietnam, Tet is a national holiday that is steeped in tradition and culture, and decorating the home is an essential part of the celebrations.

The Symbolism of the Snake
The snake is a revered animal in Vietnamese culture, symbolizing renewal, rebirth, and good fortune. According to legend, the snake has the power to bring prosperity and wealth to those who treat it with respect and kindness. In the context of Tet, the snake is seen as a symbol of transformation and change, reminding us that every ending marks a new beginning.

Thanh Xà (Snake Deity) by Minh Long Ceramic

Decorating the Home for Tet
To create a festive atmosphere, Vietnamese people traditionally decorate their homes with colorful flowers, plants, and ornaments. The most popular colors used in Tet decorations are red, yellow, and orange, which are believed to bring good luck and prosperity. People also hang couplets, poems, and other decorations on their walls to add to the festive ambiance.

Some popular Tet decorations include:
• Flowers and plants: Fresh flowers and plants are used to decorate the home, symbolizing growth and renewal.
• Couplets and poems: Traditional couplets and poems are hung on walls to bring good fortune and prosperity.
• Ornaments and figurines: Colorful ornaments and figurines, such as the snake, are used to add a festive touch to the home.
• Lanterns: Lanterns are hung in front of the home to guide the way for ancestors and spirits.

Decorating for the Year of the Snake
To create a harmonious and balanced environment, people use Feng Shui decorations to attract positive energy and ward off negative energy. Some popular Feng Shui decorations for the Year of the Snake include:
• Using auspicious colors: Colors such as red, yellow, and orange are believed to bring good luck and prosperity.
• Decorating with flowers and plants: Fresh flowers and plants are used to purify the air and bring positive energy.
• Displaying the snake symbol: The snake symbol is displayed in the home to attract good fortune and prosperity.

Minh Long Ceramic

Bao Hop Thai Hoa: Peaceful & Harmony
Bao Hop Thai Hoa is a symbol of harmony and balance, combining the energies of the turtle and the snake. The turtle represents stability and longevity, while the snake symbolizes transformation and change. Together, they create a powerful emblem of harmony and balance, reflecting the natural order of the universe.
It is also believed that Bao Hop Thai Hoa brings protection and good fortune, as it is said to ward off negative energy and attract positive energy. During Tet, Bao Hop Thai Hoa is a popular decoration, serving as a reminder of the importance of balance and harmony in our lives.

Peaceful & Harmony by Minh Long Ceramic

Significant Events in the Year of the Snake
The Year of the Snake has been marked by several significant events in Vietnamese history, including:
• The Lam Son Uprising: In 1418, the Lam Son Uprising, led by Le Loi, successfully drove out the Ming invaders from Vietnam.
• The Battle of Dong Da: In 1789, the Tay Son army, led by Nguyen Hue, defeated the Qing invaders, securing a major victory for Vietnam.
• The Founding of the Communist Party of Vietnam: In 1930, the Communist Party of Vietnam was founded, marking a significant turning point in Vietnamese history.

The Year of the Snake is a time for celebration, reflection, and renewal. By decorating our homes with colorful flowers, plants, and ornaments, we create a festive atmosphere that welcomes the new year with open arms. Whether you're Vietnamese or simply interested in learning more about this fascinating culture, Tet is a wonderful opportunity to experience the beauty and richness of Vietnamese traditions.