Lunar New Year Market

2025 is năm Ất Tỵ, the year of the wood snake! Celebrate Lunar New Year at the Smithsonian! This year, Vietnam Society will be part of an early night market at the Smithsonian Arts + Industries Building. Join us for fun family activities and games, check out the special spring altar, and learn all about Tết, our Vietnamese Lunar New Year!

Featured Activities

✨ Welcome Spring Altar: This special altar isn’t permanent — it’s set up on the last day of the old year to welcome the new one and symbolizes a connection between heaven and earth, acting as a sacred space, uniting family members, both living and departed, during the three days of Tết.

🏷️ Love Charm: For Vietnamese people, if the first Sun has the power to generate prosperity for a new year, the first full Moon has the magic to usher in creative and romantic fulfillment. Therefore, the First Full Moon festival is all about art and love, the gentle beautiful things in life. Each participant will receive a kit to create their own Moon Thread love charm.

🖌️ Ancestral Painting and Sticker Set: The Ancestral Painting is a common sight in Vietnamese households as it reflects profound appreciation for ancestors, their support for future generations, the living’s longing for them, and also ensuring the fortune and longevity of the family. Each participant will receive a kit that includes stickers to complete their ancestral painting.

Tết Educational Handouts

Explore the rich traditions, customs, and festive practices that define Tết with our informational handouts. Whether you’re new to the holiday or looking to deepen your understanding, these educational materials will guide you through the entire Tết experience!

Lunar New Year Children’s Book Sale

Celebrate the magic of Lunar New Year with our special children’s book sale! Discover a collection of beautifully illustrated stories that introduce young readers to the traditions, folklore, and festivities of the new year. These books will be sold at the display table.