Lunar New Year, known as Tết in Vietnam, is the most important celebration of the year. It’s a time for family reunions, honoring ancestors, and sending wishes for health, luck, and prosperity. In this guide, Jellyfish presents 10 perfect Lunar New Year gift ideas in Vietnam that blend tradition and intention.
1. Red Envelopes (Lì xì) with Lucky Money
These iconic red packets are the most recognized Tết gifts, usually given to children, elders, and employees.
Why it works: Red symbolizes good fortune, and the money inside carries wishes for prosperity and new beginnings.
Gift suggestions:
- Crisp bills in even numbers (avoid the number 4)
- A short handwritten note like “Chúc mừng năm mới” (Happy New Year)
2. Bánh Chưng or Bánh Tét (Traditional Sticky Rice Cakes)
These traditional cakes represent the earth and the sky. Bánh chưng is popular in the North, and bánh tét in the South.
Why it works: They are essential in Vietnamese Tết feasts and symbolize gratitude and family ties.
Gift suggestions:
- Handmade versions wrapped in dong or banana leaves
- Premium sets with beautiful packaging for gifting
3. Tết Gift Baskets
A versatile and elegant choice, gift baskets typically include tea, nuts, wine, candied fruit, and other delicacies.
Why it works: They’re festive, generous, and can suit both family and business contexts.
Gift suggestions:
- Include Vietnamese specialties like lotus seeds or dried mango
- Add a personalized card for a warm touch
4. Lucky Plants and Flowers
Plants like kumquat trees, peach blossoms, and yellow apricot flowers are Tết icons found in almost every Vietnamese home.
Why it works: They bring energy, life, and are thought to usher in good fortune.
Gift suggestions:
- A mini kumquat pot for small apartments
- Apricot blossoms (hoa mai) for families in southern Vietnam
5. Wine or Tea Sets
Sharing tea or wine is a Tết tradition that symbolizes hospitality and connection.
Why it works: These gifts can be enjoyed during family gatherings and are seen as classy and thoughtful.
Gift suggestions:
- Lotus-scented tea in a lacquer box
- A bottle of Vietnamese or imported wine with Tet-themed labels
6. Health-Boosting Gifts
Modern Vietnamese families appreciate health-oriented gifts like natural supplements and nutritious snacks.
Why it works: It shows your care for the recipient’s well-being in the year to come.
Gift suggestions:
- Ginseng, bird’s nest tonic, or vitamin gift packs
- Organic tea or fruit hampers
7. Zodiac-Themed Souvenirs
Each Lunar New Year is associated with an animal in the zodiac. 2025, for example, is the Year of the Snake.
Why it works: It adds a personal and fun twist to your gift.
Gift suggestions:
- Snake figurines, jewelry, or decorative items
- Greeting cards featuring the zodiac animal
8. Decorative Lanterns or Tet Ornaments
These bright decorations add festive energy to any space.
Why it works: They symbolize light, warmth, and a fresh start.
Gift suggestions:
- Hanging lanterns with “Phúc” (Happiness) or “Lộc” (Wealth)
- Wall decals or stickers for home decor
9. Clothing or Fashion Accessories
Wearing new clothes at Tết is believed to bring good luck.
Why it works: It’s a modern, useful gift with symbolic meaning.
Gift suggestions:
- Ao dai (Vietnamese traditional dress) for women or children
- Red or yellow scarves, ties, or socks
10. Homemade Sweets or Candied Fruit (Mứt Tết)
A box of mứt is a traditional treat shared during Tết visits.
Why it works: These sweet delicacies represent a sweet and prosperous year ahead.
Gift suggestions:
- Packaged sets of candied coconut, ginger, and lotus seeds
- Custom jars with personalized “Happy New Year” tags
Whether you’re visiting a Vietnamese home or preparing gifts for colleagues and friends, these Tết gift ideas are sure to convey thoughtfulness, luck, and warmth.
At Jellyfish, we don’t just help you understand Vietnamese traditions, we help you speak the language of culture.
We provide:
- Vietnamese language courses for beginners to advanced learners
- Special cultural workshops during Tet holiday
- Tailored learning paths for expats, travelers, and professionals in Vietnam
👉👉 Learning Vietnamese – Jellyfish Vietnam
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