Vietnam welcomes Year of the Pig

Update: February, 05/2019 - 02:40

Viet Nam News and Vietnam News Agency photographers captured images of interesting cultural practices, caring activities and joyous moments in the transition from the Year of the Dog to the Year of the Pig:

General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee and State President Nguyễn Phú Trọng visits environment workers on Thanh Niên Road, Hà Nội, a few minutes into the New Year. VNA/VNS Photo Lâm Khánh

Buying branches with buds and salt after midnight in Hà Nội. The traditional practice is believed to bring prosperity and luck to people during the year.VNS photo Trương Vị

People praying for luck and happiness at Quán Sứ Pagoda in Hà Nội. Visiting pagodas and temples is a common practice at the beginning of the New Year. - VNS Photo Trương Vị

Fireworks welcome the Lunar New Year at Hoàn Kiếm Lake in Hà Nội. VNA/VNS photo Thành Đạt

A corner of the flower street of Nguyễn Huệ, HCM City, as people welcome the New Year. VNA/VNS photo Thanh Vũ

Foreigners also enjoy the festive atmosphere in HCM City. VNA/VNS photo Thanh Vũ

A water music show entertain locals in Tiền Giang Province. VNA/VNS photo Nam Thái

In Pleiku, Gia Lai Province, many cultural activities featuring local ethnic groups are organised on the occasion, including gong performances.VNA/VNS photo Hồng Điệp

Prime Minister Nguyễn Xuân Phúc visits the Air Division No 372 on the New Year’s Eve. VNA/VNS Photo Trần Lê Lâm

The hair-washing ceremony in Chiềng Bằng Commune, Quỳnh Nhai District, Sơn La Province on the eve of the New Year. The tradition of the local Thai ethnic group has its root in a legend which tells the story of a lady general who ordered her troops to do the washing after her victory over the enemies on the last day of the year. VNA photo