Image: Wikimedia Commons (Public Domain / CC0)
TL;DR: Tet Doi is a traditional festival of the Muong people in Thu Cúc commune, Phú Thọ, featuring a rice procession from the Nàng Cúc temple (rice spirit) to invite the 'rice maidens' from Mường Trì to bless the harvest. The festival was recognized as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism in 2026.
What is Tet Doi?
Tet Doi is a traditional festival of the Muong people in Thu Cúc commune, Phú Thọ province. Unlike the Kinh Lunar New Year, Tet Doi is tied to the agricultural cycle, especially rice cultivation. The festival is usually held after the harvest, around October or November of the lunar calendar, as a way to thank the rice spirit and pray for a new year of favorable weather and abundant crops.
Community cultural activities during Tet Doi of the Muong people in Thu Cúc commune.
| Type of activity | Specific form |
|---|---|
| Folk performance | Vi singing, dum singing, lullaby singing, Xuong singing |
| Folk games | Con throwing, swing playing, tug of war, stick pushing, boat racing on the river |
| Traditional cuisine | Upland sticky rice, hill chicken, grilled stream fish, can wine |
| Traditional costume | Skirts and shirts with patterns typical of the Muong people |
What is the origin and spiritual meaning of Tet Doi?
The Muong believe that rice has a soul, just like humans. After each harvest, they hold a ceremony to invite the rice soul home to rest and continue to bless the next crop. Tet Doi reflects ancient agricultural beliefs and is an occasion for the community to express gratitude to the heavens, deities, and ancestors.
The festival also strengthens community bonds. During Tet Doi, villagers prepare offerings together, participate in rituals, and enjoy festivities. It is a time to teach younger generations about customs, traditions, and cultural identity.
How is the rice procession ritual performed?
The most important part of Tet Doi is the rice procession. The main offerings are bundles of newly harvested glutinous rice. The Muong believe that each bundle contains the 'rice maidens' (spirits of rice), and carrying them home is a way to invite the maidens to reside and bless the family.
The procession starts from the Nàng Cúc temple (also known as the rice spirit temple). The group includes village elders, leaders, shamans, and many locals in traditional attire, marching from the temple to the village center. The shaman leads, reciting prayers. Women follow, carrying offerings such as sticky rice, chicken, fruits, and especially rice bundles.
Upon arrival at the cultural house or the village chief's home, the main ceremony takes place. The shaman performs a ritual to invite the 'rice maidens' from Mường Trì (an ancient land in Muong belief) to attend. Prayers focus on thanking the rice spirit for a good harvest and asking for protection from pests and diseases.
After the ceremony, the rice is distributed to families, who keep it carefully, using it as seed for the next season or placing it on the ancestral altar.
Community cultural space
Tet Doi is not only about rituals but also a vibrant community cultural space. Activities include:
- Folk performances: Xường singing (a type of ritual folk song), ví, đúm, and lullabies are performed.
- Traditional games: Ném còn (ball throwing), swinging, tug-of-war, pushing sticks, and boat racing on the river.
- Cuisine: Specialties like nếp nương sticky rice, hill chicken, grilled stream fish, and rượu cần.
- Traditional costumes: People wear distinctive Muong attire with characteristic patterns.
These activities preserve cultural identity and provide entertainment.
When was Tet Doi recognized as National Intangible Cultural Heritage?
On February 24, 2026, in Thu Cúc commune, a ceremony was held to receive the certificate recognizing Tet Doi as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage. The decision was issued by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, marking a milestone in heritage conservation.
This honor brings pride to the local government and people, affirming the enduring value of traditional culture in modern life and opening opportunities for cultural tourism development.
How is Tet Doi heritage preserved and promoted?
Thu Cúc has over 11,000 inhabitants, with more than 82% belonging to ethnic minorities such as Muong, Dao, and Mong. The area has preserved a rich cultural heritage since the Hung King period.
Preservation efforts include documenting rituals and songs, teaching younger generations, integrating the festival into tourism, and raising community awareness to prevent loss or distortion of traditions.
