December, the final month of the year, hosts a plethora of grand festivals and events. If you're curious about the festive occasions in December, follow this article to explore a roundup of celebrations and events in the twelfth month.
1. World HIV/AIDS Prevention Day (1/12)
World AIDS Day, observed on December 1st every year, is an international event first organized on 1/12/1988. The day aims to raise awareness about the AIDS epidemic caused by HIV infection and commemorate those who lost their lives to this disease.
2. International Day of Persons with Disabilities (3/12)
In 1992, the United Nations designated December 3rd as the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD). The purpose of this day is to promote understanding of disability issues and mobilize support for the dignity, rights, and well-being of persons with disabilities.
3. International Hug Freedom Day (4/12)
Every 4th of December marks International Hug Freedom Day, encouraging everyone to express love, empathy, comfort, and encouragement through warm embraces.
On this day, people show affection to their loved ones with tight hugs. In Vietnam, the 'Free Hug' day has become a trend among the youth in recent years, symbolizing the exchange of warmth, breaking barriers, and relieving life's anxieties.
4. Establishment Day of Vietnam Veterans' Association (6/12)
With over 4 million veterans in our country, these individuals dedicated themselves to the cause of national liberation and homeland defense. On 6/12/1989, the Politburo, Central Committee of the Party (6th term), decided to establish the Vietnam Veterans' Association. Since then, the 6th of December is celebrated as the Association's Traditional Day.
This day is a significant historical milestone in the political and spiritual life, aligning with the rightful aspirations of veterans to continue contributing to the construction of the homeland, upholding the essence and traditions of Uncle Ho's Armed Forces.
5. International Anti-Corruption Day (9/12)
The 9th of December annually is International Anti-Corruption Day (IACD), an event organized by the United Nations to raise public awareness about corruption and honor those combating corruption within their communities and governments.
6. International Mountain Day (11/12)
Mountains cover about 1/4 of the Earth's surface and host approximately 12% of the world's population. Moreover, mountains play a crucial role in global climate and regional weather conditions.
The United Nations General Assembly has declared the 11th of December each year as International Mountain Day to draw attention at all levels to the importance of sustainable mountain development.
7. International Solidarity Day (20/12)
On December 22, 2005, the United Nations General Assembly declared the 20th of December each year as 'International Solidarity Day,' signifying the importance of unity in the pursuit of global goals.
Strengthening international solidarity is a necessary condition and plays a crucial role in ensuring sustainable and general stability.
8. Establishment Day of the Vietnam People's Army (22/12)
On December 22, 1994, marked the establishment of the Vietnam People's Army, symbolizing the birth of a new military organization for our nation. A people's army, by the people, for the people; always connected with the people's blood and flesh, always trusted and embraced by the people.
Every year on this day, the entire Vietnamese population engages in activities related to national defense and the military, such as rallies, seminars, people's unity conferences, artistic performances, military sports events, held in villages, communes, and organizational units.
9. Christmas Day (25/12)
Christmas, also known as Noel or Christmas Day, commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ for a majority of Christians. However, today, Christmas has become an international celebration, widely recognized for Christmas trees and Santa Claus.
Christmas is officially celebrated on December 25th, but festivities often begin on the evening of December 24th. Besides its religious significance, Christmas is a time for families to come together and enjoy each other's company.
10. What holidays does the Lunar December have in Vietnam?
Full Moon of the Twelfth Month
The Full Moon of the Twelfth Month (on the 15th of the lunar month), also known as the Full Moon of December. On this day, Vietnamese families traditionally conduct rituals to seek luck, peace, and remember ancestors and spirits. Additionally, this ritual is considered a year-end reflection, prepared meticulously and thoughtfully.
Tet of the Kitchen Gods
Tet of the Kitchen Gods, falling on the 23rd of the Twelfth Lunar Month (23/12 lunar calendar), is a significant celebration before the Lunar New Year. Each year, on this day, Vietnamese people prepare rituals to send off the Kitchen Gods to the heavens, expressing gratitude to the deities. Simultaneously, it's a time for everyone to return home, gather, and reunite after a year of hard work.
New Year's Eve
New Year's Eve is usually celebrated on the last day of the year according to the Lunar calendar (either on the 30th or 29th of the lunar month, depending on the leap year). This is a day to review completed tasks in the past year and prepare for the upcoming one.
This article provides insights into the holidays and events in December, particularly focusing on Tet of the Kitchen Gods and New Year's Eve. We hope the information shared by Mytour will assist you in planning and organizing your leisure time in the month.