This year, Kitchen Gods’ Day falls on January 14. 

During the day, it was easy to see votive paper burnt on many streets in the Hanoi Old Quarter area. Most people paid attention to fire safety. However, some people even burnt paper offerings near motorbikes.

Streets in the Hanoi Old Quarter such as Hang Ngang, Hang Dao, Hang Buom and Hang Bong were affected by smoke caused by the votive paper burning.

It is believed that on the twenty-third day of the 12th lunar month, just one week ahead of Tet Lunar New Year, the Kitchen Gods return to Heaven to report the activities of every household over the past year to the Jade Emperor. The Jade Emperor, either rewards or punishes a family based on Kitchen Gods’ yearly report.