Tet in Hanoi and HCM City: Same but different
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Although Tet is a truly national holiday, there are a number of differences between the way it is celebrated in the North and in the South.
Peaches for Hanoi and apricots for HCM City
Square chưng cake for Hanoi but Log-shaped bánh tét cakes for HCM City
Below are some of the ways in which the New Year is done differently in Hanoi and HCM City.
| North | South |
| Peach blossoms symbolise Tet. |
Apricot blossoms symbolise Tet. |
| Square chưng cakes can be found in many homes. | Log-shaped bánh tét cakes are more popular but use the same ingredients. |
| Salted onions are a popular dish. |
Pickled scallions are served at many gatherings. |
| Eating eggs is considered taboo during the season. |
Many in HCM City eat balut. |
| A soup made of dried pork skin or bamboo shoots with pig trotters is traditional. |
They prefer a soup made of bitter melon. |
| Families prepare a tray with five fruits as an offering to put on the altar, including bananas. | Many associate the banana with misfortune and avoid it during this time. |
| Guests are often served tea and sweets during conversation. |
A Tet invitation in HCM City usually only entails a meal and drinks. |
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