Today is the start of the lunar new year. In Vietnam it is called Tet Nguyen Dan and in Korea it is called Seollal. This is the year of the Tiger. The lunar new year celebration is a significant one for both Korea and Vietnam. Although both countries celebrate the solar/western new year on January 1, the lunar new year is a traditional holiday of great importance in many Asian countries. Depending upon the country, most people usually have anywhere from three days to a week off of work and school. Many people travel back home to celebrate with family. It is a time to welcome spring, clean your homes, honor ancestors, clear debts and celebrate birthdays. Traditionally in both Vietnam and Korea all birthdays except the 1st are celebrated on the lunar new year. It is the day in which everyone turns a year older. Children are given gifts and huge feasts are prepared. Parades and fireworks displays are often held.
We try as a family each year to celebrate this important holiday with our family. We use this time to teach the children about their heritage and spend time with other adoptive families. We attempt to prepare traditional Vietnamese and Korean recipes and usually dress the kids in their traditional clothing.
Happy New Year!!
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