Visitors to the citadel have the chance to learn more about the traditional rituals during Tet in the Thang Long royal court, such as a ceremony to clean the King’s seal, a ceremony worshipping the Kitchen Gods, the erection of cay neu (a tall bamboo tree) and the New Year’s Eve.

In the royal court in the ancient capital of Thang Long (now Hanoi), Tet (Lunar New Year) Festival was always held sacredly and solemnly.

Tet Festival was a chance for the Kings to represent all the people of the nation to report the achievements over the last year to Heaven as well as pray for prosperity, peace and happiness for the people. The rituals during Tet in the royal court were also different from those performed by the people.

Through the reproduction, visitors can experience the spring atmosphere in the land with a traditional and civilisation that dates back thousands of years.

The activities are also expected to contribute to promoting the traditional values of the nations forefathers to younger generations.

Offerings to bid farewell to the Kitchen Gods

Living carps are set free into the old river

Incense offering at the Kinh Thien worshipping hall

"Cay neu" is erected in the citadel

Source: nhandan.com