The annual event is designed to support disadvantaged people and Agent
Orange/dioxin victims in the central Quang Tri province and Hanoi, as well as
ethnic minority communities in the poorer communes of Thai Nguyen province in
the north, on the occasion of the upcoming Tet (Lunar New Year) holiday.
About 700 gift sets containing chung cakes, rice, confectionery, and clothes
will be presented to poor people.
Additionally, artisans from Uoc Le traditional craft village in Hanoi’s Thanh
Oai district will join in the event and teach participants how to make the
cake.
A Neu pole (a tall bamboo tree with red garment strips) was also recently
erected at the village. The Neu pole is believed to ward off ghosts and demons
from entering the community during Tet. It also directs ancestors seeking the
path home for the Lunar New Year holiday. The custom is also practised in some
other Asian countries besides Vietnam.
Previously, the MCST announced that various cultural and art activities are set
to be held at the village throughout January.
The events are designed to introduce festivals and customs at the beginning of
the year, as well as the traditional activities of various ethnic groups during
Tet. They will feature nearly 100 members of 14 ethnic groups at the village.
Source: VNA