Thousands Flock to Tet Fest in New Orleans East
Thousands flocked to New Orleans East this weekend to attend Tet Fest — a free Lunar New Year cultural festival organized by the Vietnamese American community at Mary Queen of Vietnam Church.
Attendees shared that the festival attracts people of various ethnicities to enjoy traditional foods, games, and customs associated with the Lunar New Year.
Red Lucky Money Envelopes and Lucky $2 Bills
Katie Nguyen, an attendee since childhood, introduced the red envelopes — "lì xì" — used to wish blessings, luck, and prosperity at the start of the year. According to her, these envelopes often contain $2 bills because Vietnamese culture considers it a lucky denomination.
Milton Isaac, attending for his second time, said the food was the biggest highlight, especially the different teas.
Anh Nguyen, a vendor at the festival and a church choir member, noted that the event attracts many American friends to join the celebration each year.
The Year of the Fire Horse
This year marks the Year of the Fire Horse. Anh Nguyen shared that the community hopes to be "as fast as a horse" in pursuing dreams and goals for children, adults, and families.
Josiah Cloud, attending for his third year, said his friends invited him the first time, and it has since become an annual activity. He even brought along his prize-winning goldfish and named it Marcus.
Increased Security After Last Year's Shooting
Police presence was noticeably increased at this year's event following a shooting that occurred at last year's festival.
Tet Fest ran until 11 PM on Saturday. On Sunday, it opened at 9 AM and concluded at 10 PM. Admission was free.
