On a crisp, cool spring morning, the journey to explore the “Tet Beyond Boundaries” market began, bringing a lively and jubilant atmosphere. Hanoi’s 10-degree chill could not dampen the excitement at this special event hosted by The Dewey Schools Tay Ho Tay.
With the meaningful message of “Welcoming Spring with Love, Bridging Differences,” the event not only recreated the spirit of Vietnamese Tet but also fostered a vibrant cultural exchange. Visitors eagerly “checked in” at cultural stations, traveling through the lands of “kimchi” and cherry blossoms, and immersing themselves in the vibrant red of lanterns and Tet couplets.
The bustling Tet market featured over 40 booths, ranging from food and traditional Korean and Japanese costumes to interactive workshops such as calligraphy writing, Kanji script practice, and fragrant sachet making. Each booth showcased unique cultural characteristics, allowing attendees to deeply experience the flavors and traditions of Tet from various countries. This event also provided TDSers with valuable intercultural learning experiences, encouraging them to explore and appreciate their own national identity while embracing the richness of diverse cultures. Ultimately, it contributed to building a connected and joyful springtime community.
In addition to this colorful cultural diversity, the Tet 2025 market preserved the essence of Vietnam’s traditional Tet, acting as a bridge that links the cherished values of the past to the present. “Tet Beyond Boundaries” recreated significant Vietnamese customs and rituals, such as making banh chung (square sticky rice cakes), asking for calligraphy at the start of the year, and bamboo pole dancing. The sight of children dressed in traditional ao dai, clumsily trying their hands at wrapping banh chung for the first time, or families revisiting traditional booths and reminiscing about old Tet memories, added warmth and intimacy to the festive atmosphere.
The highlight of this year’s Tet market was the “feast” of music and art performed by students and teachers from The Dewey Schools and Sakura Montessori Tay Ho Tay. Dewey’s female students gracefully and confidently walked in traditional Vietnamese ao dai, while other cultural performances, such as the traditional Yosakoi dance, Korean students’ folk instrument recital, and vibrant spring-themed choir performances, created a vivid and multicultural tapestry of Tet celebrations.
Notably, with the spirit of love and connection, a total of nearly 20 million VND raised from the Tet market booths was donated to The Dewey Schools’ Community Fund. This meaningful contribution provided a warm and fulfilling Tet for children facing difficult circumstances, giving them hope and motivation to continue their educational journey.
Sharing her thoughts on the “Tet Beyond Boundaries” market, Ms. Tran Thi Kim Anh expressed: “This is my first time attending Dewey’s Tet market, and I could feel the vibrant atmosphere and unique traditions of the Lunar New Year. I was particularly impressed by the cultural diversity showcased at this year’s market. The event not only gave children the opportunity to learn more about Vietnamese Tet customs but also offered a truly integrated Tet experience, where every culture is valued and celebrated.”
