For generations, every New Year’s Eve, villagers have prepared both savory and vegetarian offerings to bring to Phu Chinh Tien Huong, part of the Phu Day historical and cultural complex, to present to the Mother Goddess in hopes of blessings for the year ahead.

Tran Le Thai, born in 1973 and a resident of Tien Huong village, shared: “Since I was a child, every New Year’s Eve I followed my grandparents and parents carrying trays of sticky rice and chicken to Phu Chinh Tien Huong to make offerings, praying for prosperity, harmony, family happiness and children’s academic progress. Until now, my family continues that tradition.”

From early evening, families bustle with preparations. For locals, the offering tray need not be elaborate, but it must be complete and sincere, marking an auspicious beginning for a smooth year ahead.

During the sacred transition between the old and new year, streams of people make their way to the shrine, carefully holding their trays, expressing reverence and entrusting wishes for peace and harmony.

Meritorious Artisan Tran Thi Kim Hue, head custodian of Phu Chinh Tien Huong, said the custom of bringing offering trays to the shrine on New Year’s Eve has existed for a very long time and has been preserved by generations of villagers.

According to tradition, the tray often includes sticky rice and boiled chicken, or fruits and sweets, depending on each family’s circumstances.

Not only residents of Tien Huong village, but also visitors from many regions gather at Phu Chinh Tien Huong on New Year’s Eve to perform rituals and send prayers for a peaceful and fortunate new year.

Trong Tung