lunar new year, hanoi

most buddhists especially the chinese are famous for their observance of the lunar new year. vietnam is no exception. here they call it Tet. the locals go agog over flowering trees, lemon and orange trees as well. these are actually their new year trees.

so on the eve of the new year i went out to see the celebrations around hoan kiem lake. i was told there would be fireworks. since it was not that cold i decided to walk together with a friend. we passed by standing sugar cane trunks being sold. and we wondered if they were for good luck as well.

the area was getting crowded when we reached it. there was an ongoing concert on the northeastern side. there was a random dragon dance by some teenagers on the street. it looked more like a show off than tradition being observed. hot air lanterns or balloons were lit up and sent flying high. they were supposed to be released with one's personal wishes or prayers.

we looked for the location of the fireworks and found a nice spot nearby. people have brought their own mats to sit on. small kids were on their fathers shoulders. we waited for 45 minutes more. the fireworks display started at 12 midnight.