Vietnam Kitchen Gods Day: What It This Tradition and When to Celebrate

Kitchen Gods Day is a long-standing cultural tradition in Vietnam, deeply tied to spirituality and folklore. It’s not just about honoring the deities who oversee the home but also about expressing gratitude and hopes for a prosperous, harmonious life. But who exactly are the Kitchen Gods, and why are they so revered? Join Chus as we uncover their fascinating origins and the significance of their role in Vietnamese culture.

Who Are the Kitchen Gods and Why Are They Important?

The tradition of honoring the Kitchen Gods originates from Vietnamese folklore, with roots in Taoist mythology from China. Over time, it evolved uniquely in Vietnam, depicting three deities: two men and one woman. Known as the "2 Lords and 1 Lady," they are believed to be responsible for household affairs. Thổ Công oversees the kitchen, Thổ Địa protects the house, and Thổ Kỳ ensures harmony in the market.

Legend has it that these three were once humans known for their loyalty and virtue. They were later deified by the Jade Emperor as guardians of families, bringing prosperity and peace. Each year, on the 23rd day of the last Lunar month, the Kitchen Gods ride on carp that transform into dragons to report to the heavens on the family's deeds over the year.

Kitchen Gods ride on carp that transform into dragon

When and How to Celebrate Kitchen Gods Day

The ritual to honor the Kitchen Gods traditionally takes place on the 23rd day of the 12th lunar month - just before Tet around a week. In 2025, this falls on Wednesday, January 22, in the Gregorian calendar.

Basic offerings typically include three ceremonial hats—two for the male deities and one for the female—along with incense, candles, fresh flowers, and a fruit platter.

Depending on the family's means, the food offerings may vary. Some opt for a simple vegetarian spread of betel nuts and traditional cakes, while others prepare a hearty feast with sticky rice, boiled chicken, and other traditional dishes.

The Kitchen Gods offering set includes three ceremonial hats (Photo: T.L.)

A simple Kitchen Gods offering set with boiled chicken, bánh chưng (square sticky rice cake) and other traditional dishes (Photo: Internet)

The ritual wouldn’t be complete without the release of live carp into a river, lake, or pond. This symbolizes the carp carrying the deities to the heavens, where they transform into dragons. Beyond its symbolic role, releasing carp embodies compassion, hope, and the desire for a fresh start in the coming year.

Freeing the carp (Photo: Báo Giao Thông)

When performing the ritual, it's important to dress modestly and respectfully. Vietnamese people avoid wearing shorts, tank tops, short skirts, or casual, untidy clothing. A neat, presentable appearance reflects sincerity and respect for this meaningful tradition.

The act of burning symbolic paper items—such as robes, shoes, and gold ingots—after the ritual is another essential aspect, signifying the deities' preparation for their celestial journey.

The Deeper Meaning Behind Kitchen Gods Day

The tradition of honoring the Kitchen Gods carries profound cultural and spiritual significance in Vietnamese life.

Firstly, the ritual is a way to express gratitude to the deities who safeguard the home, ensuring warmth, safety, and abundance. It’s also a time to pray for blessings and prosperity in the year ahead.

Kitchen Gods are important in Vietnamese culture, especially during Tet

The image of the carp, a key element in the celebration, represents more than just transportation for the deities. It symbolizes resilience, growth, and the determination to overcome challenges, echoing the aspirations of Vietnamese families for success and happiness.

Conclusion

Kitchen Gods Day is not just a spiritual ritual but also a cultural treasure that reflects the harmony between tradition and daily life. It’s a beautiful reminder of the values of gratitude, unity, and hope that define Vietnamese culture.

As you prepare for this meaningful celebration, why not pair it with thoughtful Tet gifts for your loved ones? Visit Chus to explore our premium Tet gift collections. We offer nationwide shipping across Vietnam and English-speaking customer support to ensure a seamless shopping experience!