Tet is one of the most important holidays in the cultures of many countries around the world. It is not only an occasion to celebrate a new year, but also an opportunity for families and communities to connect, honor traditions, and show gratitude. In this article, we will further explore the meanings and characteristics of both the New Year and the Lunar New Year.
What is New Year’s Day?
New Year, also known as Western New Year, is a holiday celebrated on January 1 of the solar calendar every year. This is the first day of the year according to the Gregorian Calendar, widely used around the world.
History and origin:
New Year’s day originates from the ancient Roman Calendar, starting from the time of Julius Caesar in 46 BC. This calendar is based on the Earth’s rotation around the Sun, with each year having 365 days.
Meaning:
New Year is an opportunity for people to welcome the new year, with the hope of a new, better start. This is the time for everyone to put aside the troubles and worries of the old year and look forward to a new year with much joy and hope.
Customs and traditions:
Customs and practices on New Year’s Day are different in each country. However, some popular activities include:
- Enjoy a sumptuous dinner: On New Year’s Eve, many families often gather together to enjoy a sumptuous dinner.
- Participate in entertainment activities: Many people participate in entertainment activities such as fireworks displays, watching street art performances, traveling,…
- Sending New Year’s greetings: People often send New Year’s greetings to friends, relatives and colleagues.
What is Lunar New Year?
Lunar New Year is the most important holiday in Asian culture and some other countries around the world. Usually taking place in late January or early February according to the lunar calendar, Lunar New Year is considered an occasion to honor ancestors, pray for good luck and start a new year with hope and joy.
History and origin:
The Lunar New Year has been established and implemented since ancient times, and has undergone many changes and developments through historical periods. In the past, determining the date of Tet was often based on the cycles of the moon and sun, along with factors such as astronomy and religious rituals.
Meaning:
Lunar New Year has many important meanings for many Asian countries. This is an opportunity for people to remember their ancestors, express gratitude to the deceased, and pray for a happy and prosperous new year. Lunar New Year is also a time for people to put aside the worries of the old year and look forward to a new year with much joy and hope.
Customs and traditions:
There are many traditional customs and traditions during Lunar New Year, including:
- New Year’s Eve Worship: The New Year’s Eve Worship Ceremony is held on New Year’s Eve to say goodbye to the old year and welcome the new year.
- Picking fortune at the beginning of the year: Picking fortune at the beginning of the year is the custom of picking the first branches and flowers in the new year with the hope of bringing luck and fortune.
- Visiting relatives: On Tet, people often visit relatives and friends to wish them Happy New Year and express their close feelings.
- Happy Children’s Age: Children’s Happy Birthday is the custom of giving lucky money to children with the hope of bringing luck, health and success to them in the new year.
Conclude
Tet is not only an occasion to celebrate a new year, but also an opportunity to honor traditions and unite family and community. Regardless of whether it is New Year or Lunar New Year, the attraction and meaning of Tet is always undeniable in the daily lives of people around the world.
