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Every year, on the First Full Moon Festival, also known as Tết Nguyên Tiêu, Vietnamese families follow the traditional custom of preparing a sacred offering tray to present to their ancestors and deities. This practice expresses gratitude and reverence for their forebears while praying for a year filled with peace and good fortune.

From the early morning, people visit traditional markets to purchase flowers, fruits, betel leaves, areca nuts, and fresh ingredients for their offerings. This is not only a spiritual ritual but also an opportunity for family members to gather, showcase filial piety, and honor their roots. It represents a beautiful tradition and the sacred cultural space within every Vietnamese household.

The First Full Moon Festival is not merely a religious occasion but also a time for people to express their gratitude to the deities and ancestors who have blessed and protected them throughout the past year. According to folklore, this is the day when heavenly deities descend to Earth.

The Offering Tray for the First Full Moon Festival

The offering tray typically includes traditional Vietnamese dishes such as rice, bánh chưng (square sticky rice cake), bánh dày (round sticky rice cake), fresh fruits, and savory dishes like chicken, pork, and fish. Each item carries symbolic meanings rooted in spirituality and cultural beliefs. Chicken and pork symbolize abundance, while bánh chưng and bánh dày represent heaven and earth, reflecting deep respect for ancestors.

Fresh fruits are also an indispensable part of the offering tray, particularly bananas, watermelons, oranges, apples, and pomelos, as they signify prosperity and the sweetness of life. Another essential aspect of this ritual is the lighting of incense and heartfelt prayers for peace and happiness.

Rituals of Worship on the First Full Moon Festival

The ceremony usually takes place in the morning or late afternoon, depending on each family’s tradition. Families conduct the ritual at their ancestral altar, light incense, and sincerely pray for blessings from the deities. Many families also visit pagodas to pray for peace and ward off misfortune, hoping for a smooth and prosperous year ahead.

A unique tradition during this festival is eating vegetarian food. Many Vietnamese believe that consuming vegetarian meals on this day helps purify the soul and bring tranquility to oneself and the family.

Important Notes for the First Full Moon Festival

Worship on the First Full Moon Festival is not only about preparing an offering tray but also requires the host’s sincerity. According to tradition, incense lighting and offerings should be performed at the right time to preserve the sacredness of the ritual. The offering tray should be simple yet complete, symbolizing respect and heartfelt devotion.

Additionally, during this occasion, many people organize community activities, such as distributing blessings, visiting friends and relatives, and fostering joy and goodwill among everyone.