The meaning of Tet and why Vietnamese families treasure it

A time to slow down and return home 

For many Vietnamese families, Tết is the most meaningful time of the year. It marks a fresh start, but it also brings people back to their roots. Mr Nguyen Hai Giang, grandfather of Hung Minh in Year 9, describes Tết as a time of reunion, when life slows, memories return and the whole family comes together after a busy year. 

He shared that Tết gives him space to look back at the past and think about the year ahead. It is a rare moment of calm when he can sit with the people he loves and feel connected to the traditions that shaped him. 

Why families cherish tết 

Tết helps families reflect on what went well and what could improve. It is also a time for forgiveness when people begin the new year with more kindness. 

Children feel the joy of Tết in simple ways. They help adults prepare food, visit relatives, wear new clothes and receive lucky money. Even a small red envelope carries deep affection from grandparents and parents. Mr Giang remembers waiting eagerly for new clothes and following his grandmother to visit relatives in the countryside. Those moments of excitement still stay with him today. 

Traditions that bring generations together 

Some memories never fade, especially the ones shared around food and family. Mr Giang described sitting with his entire family around the pot of bánh chưng as New Year’s Eve approached. Without screens or distractions, they talked, cooked and waited for midnight together. He also remembered the whole family gathering around the radio to listen to President Hồ Chí Minh’s New Year message. That simple act brought everyone closer and created a feeling of shared hope.  

These traditions continue with his family today. They gather as a large family, share stories and give lucky money to children and grandchildren, helping younger generations understand the values that have been passed down to them. 

How BIS Hanoi supports cultural understanding 

At BIS Hanoi, we want every child to feel proud of their culture. During Tết, students, both local and international, take part in activities that help them experience Vietnamese traditions in meaningful and joyful ways. These shared moments help every child appreciate the meaning of Tết, feel a sense of belonging and value the cultures within our diverse school community. 

Mr Giang hopes that students will continue to appreciate the traditions passed down by their grandparents and parents and share the meaning of Tết with friends from other cultures. When children honour their own heritage while sharing it with others, they help keep these traditions alive for future generations.