The Vietnamese Lunar New Year, known as Tet, ushers in the Year of the Snake with traditional celebrations, heartfelt greetings, and hopes for prosperity and peace. Across the globe, world leaders have joined the festivities, sending warm wishes and messages to honor this significant occasion.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres expressed his hopes for the new year, stating, "I hope the Year of the Snake brings health, happiness, and new opportunities for all." His message reflects the collective yearning for stability and prosperity amid the challenges the world currently faces.
The World Health Organization also extended its own New Year greetings, highlighting the importance of health and hope as fundamental aspects of the celebration. "May the New Year be filled with health and hope," were sentiments shared by WHO representatives, emphasizing the global commitment to improving public health as we enter 2025.
Leaders from various nations have contributed to the festive spirit as well. Singapore's Prime Minister called upon citizens to unite and focus on national security, urging everyone to wish each other peace during the New Year. Meanwhile, Australia's Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese, made a notable impression by greeting everyone with, "Happy New Year, wealth and happiness to all," capturing the jovial mood of the occasion.
Thailand's PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra also sent his well-wishes to the people, saying, "May everyone be blessed with health, happiness, and prosperity," which resonates with the core essence of Tet, characterized by familial bonds, love, and blessings.
Tran Kwong, from Vietnam’s National Cultural Heritage organization, shared the significance of Tet, which has been recognized by UNESCO as intangible cultural heritage of humanity. He remarked, "Tet is more than just the start of the new year; it is about reconnecting with our roots, traditions, and family values, strengthening our collective identity."
The festive celebrations saw various artistic performances and vibrant fireworks lighting up the skies across major cities including Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. The evening filled with lights was complemented by the joyous celebrations of communities coming together, reflecting the hope and aspirations of the Vietnamese people as they welcomed the new year.
Traditionally, Tet marks not only the beginning of the new year, but also symbolizes renewal and fresh starts. The Year of the Snake, characterized by wisdom and resilience, is anticipated to bring opportunities and prosperity for many. People hope for enduring peace, moving toward collective solutions to the world's pressing challenges.
Throughout the vibrant atmosphere, humor plays its part as individuals exchange creative and unique Tet greetings, which have sparked joy and laughs among families and friends. Some light-hearted messages include whimsical phrases like, "Wishing everyone money flooding like the river, and love flowing like sugar!"
Such sayings are not merely playful; they express genuine sentiments reflecting the wish for abundance and joy. They serve to strengthen social relationships and build community bonds during the holiday.
On this New Year’s morning, the streets of Hanoi transitioned from the previous night’s exuberance to tranquil calm, where local traditions paused on the first day of the lunar year. With light spring rains, many felt the chill of renewed hope and bright opportunities for the upcoming year.
Finally, as the New Year festivities continue with families coming together to share joyful meals and exchange gifts of good fortune and wishes, the anticipation grows for what 2025 will hold.
This Tet, as greetings and wishes are exchanged, and as families gather to celebrate, the overarching theme remains the same: peace, love, and health. Numerous aspirations linger as everyone welcomes the Year of the Snake, embracing the joys and challenges it may bring.
With heartfelt wishes accompanying every greeting, the sentiment is clear: may the Year of the Snake bring forth joy, wealth, and endless opportunities to all. Happy Lunar New Year 2025!