First Full Moon Festival 2025

The First Full Moon Festival, also known as Tet Nguyen Tieu, is a culturally significant event in Vietnam. It takes place on the 15th day of the first lunar month and is one of the most anticipated events during the New Year festivities. This festival is cherished for its vibrant and unique celebration, which is deeply connected to Vietnamese traditions and customs.

First Full Moon Festival in Vietnam -  A cultural celebration

Tet Nguyen Tieu has its roots in China and is celebrated on the 14th and 15th days of the first lunar month. This day signifies the first full moon night of the lunar new year, embodying the beginning of a fresh start.

Meaning of Tet Nguyen Tiieu

The practical significance of Tet Nguyen Tieu is widely transmitted in today's society. It signifies the first full moon night of the new year, with "Nguyen" meaning first and "Tieu" meaning night. It is also referred to as Tet Thuong Nguyen, distinguishing it from other major full moon festivals like Tet Trung Nguyen (7th lunar month) and Tet Ha Nguyen (10th lunar month).

This occasion holds particular importance in Buddhism, encapsulated in the saying "Offering throughout the year is not as significant as on the night of the first full moon".

The full moon of lunar January is an important religious occasion in Vietnam

Activities on Tet Nguyen Tieu

While Tet Nguyen Tieu was introduced to Vietnam from China, it has adapted to suit the country's traditional customs.

People often visit pagodas to pay respects to Buddha and their ancestors, offerings to express reverence, and seek blessings. Vietnamese families will prepare two feasts: one vegetarian feast for Buddha and another for their ancestors.

Vegetarian feast for Buddha: This feast is adorned with various colorful vegetarian dishes symbolizing the Five Elements, including sweet rice ball soup, red sticky rice, various bean-based dishes, fresh flowers, fruits, and vegetable stir-fries.

Ancestral feast: The ancestral feast can be either vegetarian or non-vegetarian, featuring dishes such as braised bamboo shoots, assorted rolls, boiled chicken or pork, and sausages.

People visit temples during Tet Nguyen Tieu for blessings

Tet Nguyen Tieu feast is usually offered at noon, around 10 a.m., or evening, depending on the family's schedule. It is important to note that fake fruits, fake food, and imitation vegetarian dishes should not be used in the offerings.

Two grand Tet Nguyen Tieu Festivals in Vietnam

The Tet Nguyen Tieu Festival is celebrated at temples and in cities across Vietnam, with Hoi An and Ho Chi Minh City being two prominent locations known for their spectacular festive activities during the Full Moon of the Lunar New Year.

Festival in Hoi An

Visitors to Hoi An during Tet Nguyen Tieu are treated to unforgettable experiences in the ancient and enchanting atmosphere adorned with radiant lanterns. The festival spans three days, from the 14th to the 16th day of the Lunar New Year, with the official ceremony taking place on the 16th day. 

Guests can participate in Tet Nguyen Tieu celebrations at temples such as Chua Ong, Chua Cau, and Dinh Son Phong. You can also join the lantern festival right in the heart of Hoi An's Old Town, near the banks of the Hoai River.

Tet Nguyen Tieu attracts many tourists to come and enjoy the festivities in Hoi An

Festival in Ho Chi Minh City

The Tet Nguyen Tieu Festival in Ho Chi Minh City is an annual event held in District 5, a hub for the vibrant Chinese community. Over the 14th and 15th days of the Lunar New Year, local residents and visitors can engage in various captivating activities. 

The festival includes Vietnamese poetry nights, street art parades, Nguyen Tieu festival nights, art exhibitions showcasing calligraphy and fine arts, dragon dance performances, and a delightful fusion of Vietnamese and Chinese cuisine.

Tet Nguyen Tieu's celebration of the Chinese community is significant

The First Full Moon Festival in Vietnam's New Year is a celebration that transcends time, weaving together tradition, spirituality, and community. To truly immerse yourself in the magic of this cultural extravaganza, plan your Vietnam tour and experience the enchantment firsthand. Join the locals as lanterns light up the night and ancestral prayers fill the air, making Tet Nguyen Tieu an unforgettable part of your cultural exploration in Vietnam.