Early Tet celebrations become a growing trend
There is no longer a need to wait until the final days before the Lunar New Year for the festive spirit to take shape. In Hai Phong, spring seems to arrive earlier in many households, as celebrating Tet ahead of time becomes an increasingly common practice.
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From as early as November on the lunar calendar, traditional markets, flower shops, along with online marketplaces, begin to see a steady rise in Tet-related purchases. Peach blossoms, plum blossoms, apricot branches are on sale ahead of the season, introducing early hints of spring to streets and residential areas.
This marks a clear change from the long-held habit of waiting until the final days to make preparations for Tet. Many families now opt to select flowers early. Tet flower prices this year vary widely. Peach blossom branches are priced between 180,000 and 400,000 VND each. Magnolia trees range from 3.5 to 4 million VND per tree, while individual magnolia branches sell for 800,000 to 3 million VND, depending on size, shape and bloom stage.
Traders said that delayed cold weather has caused several flower varieties to bloom earlier than usual. In response to growing consumer demand, suppliers have brought their products to market earlier than in previous years.
Alongside flowers, small bonsai kumquat trees are also entering the market earlier than usual. At flower shops, kumquat bonsai pots are priced from 150,000 to 350,000 VND each, depending on their shape.
The trend extends beyond home decoration. Many families are also choosing to “enjoy Tet early” by preparing traditional dishes in advance. Making chung cakes earlier has been preferred, helping households avoid the intense rush and pressure on the days leading up to the holiday.
The growing trend to celebrate Tet early reflects broader changes in lifestyle and social attitudes. As work pressures mount and personal time becomes more limited, extending the Tet preparation period gives people more time to slow down, regain emotional balance and appreciate the cultural and spiritual values of the Lunar New Year.
Hai Phong News