The Mekong Delta is known for its peaceful and simple beauty, yet it captivates visitors with its charm, especially during the spring festival season. One of the must-visit destinations during the Lunar New Year is Sa Dec, in Dong Thap Province, often referred to as the “kingdom of flowers” in the Mekong Delta. In particular, the sight of Lai Vung tangerines ripening into a golden yellow hue is a special feature of this region, adding a sweet fragrance to the spring air.
Sa Dec, with its vast flower gardens, stands out during the Tết (Lunar New Year) season. During this time, vibrant flowers like peach blossoms, chrysanthemums, and marigolds bloom everywhere, creating a colorful and festive atmosphere. Visitors to Sa Dec in the days leading up to Tết can explore famous flower villages such as Tan Quy Dong and Tan Phu Dong, where gardens full of blooming flowers create a lively and joyful environment.
In particular, the Lai Vung tangerine, a specialty of this area, plays an important role in the springtime experience. These orchards, filled with ripe, juicy tangerines, are a beautiful symbol of the Tết season in the Mekong Delta.
Lai Vung, a small district in Dong Thap Province, is renowned for its Lai Vung tangerines, which have a distinctively sweet, refreshing flavor. During Tết, when these tangerines are in harvest season, the entire area is bathed in a golden glow as the trees bear heavy fruit. Not only is the Lai Vung tangerine an essential product for the local market, but it also holds a special place in the traditional Tết offering, forming a key part of the “five-fruit tray” (mâm ngũ quả) that is displayed during the New Year celebrations in the Mekong Delta.
As Tết approaches, locals gather to harvest these plump, ripe tangerines, preparing for a prosperous new year. The tangerine orchards become a popular tourist spot where visitors can stroll through the groves, pick fresh tangerines, and enjoy the sweet taste of the fruit right from the tree.
Tết in the Mekong Delta is not just about admiring the colorful flower gardens or picking sweet tangerines—it’s also a chance to experience the unique culture of the region. You can participate in local festivals, visit bustling Tết markets, and enjoy traditional dishes like bánh tét (sticky rice cake), cá kho tộ (braised fish), nem (spring rolls), and bánh xèo (Vietnamese pancakes). Alternatively, you can simply relax with a cup of tea, enjoy the serene landscape, and take in the peaceful atmosphere of the countryside.
The sight of Lai Vung tangerines during Tết is both picturesque and symbolic, representing the abundance and prosperity of the new year. These tangerines are not only a local agricultural product but also a spiritual gift from the land, bringing good fortune and happiness to families during the New Year celebrations.
With its breathtaking scenery, fresh air, and warm-hearted people, a springtime trip to Sa Dec and Lai Vung offers a memorable experience where visitors can fully embrace the peaceful, hopeful spirit of Tết in the Mekong Delta.
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