Neu pole erection Ceremony in the Imperial City of Hue

⏰ Time: January 22, 2025 (23rd day of the 12th lunar month, Year of the Dragon)
🎯 Venue: Hue Imperial Citadel

The "Thuong Tieu" (Erecting the Neu Pole) ceremony is a traditional Vietnamese ritual and an important New Year custom of the Nguyen Dynasty. Beyond its spiritual significance in folk beliefs, this ritual symbolized the official announcement of the arrival of Tet (Lunar New Year).

The bamboo pole selected for the ceremony is tall, sturdy, and thick, requiring over ten people to carry it. At the top of the pole, ornaments such as jade seals and peachwood charms are hung. These items often include inscriptions of deities' names or poetic couplets inspired by the style of Meng Chang from the Song Dynasty in China, known as "Peachwood Charms" (Đề Đào phù):

"Tân niên nạp dư khánh
Gia tiết hiệu trường xuân"
(New Year welcomes good fortune,
Festive season heralds eternal spring)

Based on historical documents, the Hue Monuments Conservation Center has crafted a ritualistic script for this ceremony within the Imperial Palace. The event serves as a cultural highlight, creating a vibrant and festive atmosphere in celebration of the annual Tet holiday.

Following the ritual at the Temple of The First Ancestor (Thế Tổ Miếu), the ceremony continues at the Long An Palace with similar protocols.

A distinctive feature of the Neu Pole Ceremony in the Hue Imperial Citadel is its association with majestic court music (Dai Nhac and Tieu Nhac) and solemn rituals. Once the pole is erected, its top is adorned with seals and insignias, symbolizing the sealing of government offices, signaling the court's recess for the Tet holiday.

Visitors from both Vietnam and abroad are encouraged to participate in this activity during their visit to Hue. It provides a deeper understanding of the rich cultural heritage of the ancient capital and offers a glimpse into the traditional Vietnamese Tet celebrations preserved through generations.

Following the Neu Pole Ceremony, the Royal Tet Festival will commence from January 23–24, 2025 (24th–25th day of the 12th lunar month) at the Hue Imperial Citadel.

Summarized by Khamphahue