1. Conducting rituals in the evening or afternoon
Depending on each family's circumstances, the timing of ritual ceremonies may vary. However, people usually organize rituals in the evening or on the 30th day of Tet.
On the 30th day of Tet, people complete tasks from the old year, clean their homes, and return. At this moment, everything is prepared and perfect for the offering ceremony.
This time is also the last moments of the old year for family members to gather, dress neatly to converse with relatives. However, if they can't return due to reasons like work or being far away, acceptance becomes necessary.
2. Prepare the offering ceremony before the Tet feast
Vietnamese Beliefs in the Kitchen God's Report
Before having the Tet feast, the entire family needs to make offerings and prepare ritual items for ancestors. During the ceremony, all members should dress neatly, gather, and present themselves in front of the ancestral altar.
3. Make the offering feast more solemn than usual days
Depending on family circumstances and regions, each place may have differences in the offering feast. However, Vietnamese must include items such as gold coins, a tray of five fruits, betel leaves, square sticky rice cake, and wine on the altar. These items are arranged on the ancestral altar in a solemn manner.
4. No joking, serious reverence during the offering ceremony
Swearing, speaking loudly, or laughing during the ancestral offering is considered disrespectful. Moreover, there is a custom of avoiding calling the names of young children during the ceremony because it is believed that during the offering, the ancestors' spirits gather, and mischievous spirits might be attracted to the children.
5. Create a Festive Atmosphere During the Meal
On the 30th day of Tet, family members come together. This is the most sacred moment of the year because each member has their own responsibilities throughout the year.
Therefore, if you want the new year to bring many blessings and joy, maintain a cheerful and positive atmosphere at the dining table for smooth and harmonious proceedings. Avoid cursing or arguing; instead, focus on positive things and the happiness surrounding family members.
6. Avoid Breakage
This is a precaution not only at the beginning of the new year but also during the transition between the old and the new year. Folk beliefs suggest that broken objects can bring misfortune, especially if oil lamps or wine spill onto the floor, which may attract spirits to your home.
These are the things to avoid when preparing the year-end offering feast that you should be aware of. Remember to save this for reference. Don't forget to follow Mytour for updates on useful information.