Symbols and Items Associated with Tet
Cay Neu: A bamboo stake placed in front of the house decorated with
red paper to scare away evil spirits during the abscence of the Kitchen god.
Peach Blossoms: Many families decorate their house with a peach branch,
symbolizing longevity and immortality.
Hoa Mai: A small, yellow flowering plant also use for decoration preferred by South
Vietnamese with meanings of prosperity and well-being for the family.
Oranges, Tangerines, Apples: These fruits are often displayed on altars and
various other places in the house. They give good luck and the colors of red and
orange represents joyfulness.
Kumquat Tree: Use as decoration because the tree assures a fruitful and prosperous
year.
Banh Chung: A type of rice cake with beans and pork, covered with banana leaves; a
favorite for this holiday.
Red-Dyed Melon Seeds: Eaten as a snack during Tet, and it signifies progeny.
Releasing of a Carp: A mythology that the Kitchen god goes to heaven by riding
on the back of a carp. Some people still respect this belief by releasing a carp in
a pond or river.
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