Vietnamese people often decorate their houses with peach blossoms, apricot blossoms, and kumquat trees during Tet. These ornamental plants hold cultural significance and are used to bring luck, wealth, and happiness to Vietnamese families during Tet. Peach blossoms symbolize prosperity, development, and longevity. They are considered a sacred symbol of renovation and strong growth. Apricot blossoms symbolize wealth and nobility, with the yellow color representing wealth and hope. Kumquat trees symbolize diversity and happiness, as they are believed to bring prosperity and luck to the owner in the new year. The more fruits on a kumquat tree, the more luck is believed to come to the owner.
Vietnamese spent $1.7 million on buying 245,000 traditional 'ao dai' long dresses for Tet (Lunar New Year) on e-commerce platforms alone. The traditional festival will last from Feb. 8 to 14, 2024, with the peak on Feb. 10. The owner of two stores in Ho Chi Minh City selling 'ao dai' said sales have increased fivefold compared to last year, with buyers preferring the classic five-piece design made from materials like linen and silk. Many clothing and specialized 'ao dai' stores are experiencing a surge in sales before Tet. The most popular e-commerce platforms sold 245,000 'ao dai' last month, up 6% from last year. The price of 'ao dai' ranges from VND200,000-500,000. The demand is partly due to a viral trend of taking photos in 'ao dai' on social media. Young people are increasingly fond of wearing 'ao dai' during special occasions and photo sessions. [1a4c91a4]
In a recent event in Ho Chi Minh City, more than 5,000 people, including leaders of the city, government departments, and agencies, members of the Women’s Union, ambassadors of the Ao Dai Festival, artists, and residents participated in a mass showcase of ao dai. This event was a highlight of the 10th Ho Chi Minh City Ao Dai Festival in 2024. The ao dai procession took place along Nguyen Hue pedestrian mall and was themed 'I love Vietnamese ao dai'. Miss Universe Vietnam 2022 Ngoc Chau was also present at the event. The procession aimed to promote HCM City's culture and tourism, showcasing the beauty and elegance of the traditional Vietnamese long dress. [109bd81c]