Group 6 culture and festivals

Our group discussed a fascinating and vibrant topic: Culture and Festivals. Festivals hold a special place in our hearts and play a significant role in shaping our identities, preserving traditions, and fostering a sense of community. They are a time when we come together to honor our heritage, express our creativity, and celebrate the richness of our diverse cultures. Throughout history, festivals have been a powerful medium for transmitting customs, beliefs, and values from one generation to another. These celebrations serve as a window into the past, offering insights into the traditions and rituals that have shaped our societies. They create a sense of continuity, reminding us of our roots and providing a connection to our ancestors. Moreover, festivals are not only an opportunity to commemorate the past, but they also serve as a catalyst for cultural exchange and understanding. In a world that is increasingly interconnected, these celebrations provide a platform for people from different backgrounds to come together, share their experiences, and appreciate the beauty and uniqueness of each others cultures. Festivals break down barriers, bridge divides, and promote dialogue, fostering a sense of harmony and unity among diverse communities. In todays discussion, we will explore the significance of festivals and cultural celebrations from the beautiful country Vietnam.

Teacher: Triệu Thị Trang

Group preparation assessment: 6

Presentation assessment: List of students (in the order of presenting)

MEETING MINUTES 1 - GROUP: 6 7 Nguyễn Huyền Trang

Contents for discussing:

 The group members meet and exchange personal information contacts  Choose the group leader and the minute-taker

 The group members analysis, suggested building a unified proposal  The group leader assigns tasks to members

Conclusion:

 The group members will complete tasks according to assigned deadlines  Deadline content: 23:59 January 27, 2024

 Deadline powerpoint: 23:59 February 19, 2024

Duties for participants

Nguyễn Thúy Ngoan The group leader Write introduction and conclusion + word presentation

Phạm Trường Sơn Write part 2.1: Mid-autumn festival Dương Bích Thảo The minute-taker Powerpoint

Nguyễn Thị Hoài Thu Write part 1: Introducing the beauty culture of Vietnam Triệu Bích Thủy Write part 2.2: Lunar New Year

Nguyễn Huyền Trang

Write part 3: Criticizing some Vietnamese people for not preserving the nation's culture and

Leader (Signature and name) Minute-Taker (Signature and name)

MEETING MINUTES 2 - GROUP: 6 7 Nguyễn Huyền Trang

Contents for discussing:

 The group amends and gives feedback to each member  The group leader assigns presentations part to each member

Conclusion:

 The group members amend their tasks according to feedback

 The group members prepare presentations according to assigned tasks

Duties for participants:

Name Position Duties Nguyễn Thúy

Ngoan The group leader Presents Introduction

Bùi Thị Oanh Presents part 2.2: Lunar New Year

Presents part 3: Criticizing some Vietnamese people for not preserving the nation's culture and traditions

Leader (Signature and name) Minute-Taker (Signature and name)

Ngoan Thảo Nguyễn Thúy Ngoan Dương Bích Thảo

Table of Contents

1 Greeting: 4

2 Introducing the group’s members: 4

3 Introducing the group’s topic: 4

4 Outlining the presentation: 4

1 Cultural of Vietnam 5

2 Festivals of Vietnam 5

2.1 Mid-Autumn Festival 5

2.1.2 Lanterns and Lights: 6

2.1.3 Mooncakes and Traditional Treats: 6

2.1.4 Dragon and Lion Dances: 6

3 Critize people’s attitude 7

3.1 Critize people’s attitude 7

3.2 Solutions 8

1 Reviewing all main points 8

2 Ending the presentation 8

INTRODUCTION 1 Greeting:

Good morning every one, We are group 6 Today we are very happy to be here to present our topic: Culture and Festivals.

2 Introducing the group’s members:

There are seven member in our group: - Triệu Bích Thủy

- Nguyễn Thúy Ngoan - Nguyễn Thị Hoài Thu - Bùi Thị Oanh

- Dương Bích Thảo - Phạm Trường Sơn - Nguyễn Huyền Trang

3 Introducing the group’s topic:

Our group discussed a fascinating and vibrant topic: Culture and Festivals Festivals hold a special place in our hearts and play a significant role in shaping our identities, preserving traditions, and fostering a sense of community They are a time when we come together to honor our heritage, express our creativity, and celebrate the richness of our diverse cultures.

Throughout history, festivals have been a powerful medium for transmitting customs, beliefs, and values from one generation to another These celebrations serve as a window into the past, offering insights into the traditions and rituals that have shaped our societies They create a sense of continuity, reminding us of our roots and providing a connection to our ancestors.

Moreover, festivals are not only an opportunity to commemorate the past, but they also serve as a catalyst for cultural exchange and understanding In a world that is increasingly interconnected, these celebrations provide a platform for people from different backgrounds to come together, share their experiences, and appreciate the beauty and uniqueness of each other's cultures Festivals break down barriers, bridge divides, and promote dialogue, fostering a sense of harmony and unity among diverse communities.

In today's discussion, we will explore the significance of festivals and cultural celebrations from the beautiful country - Vietnam We will delve into the social, historical, and artistic dimensions of these events, examining their impact on individuals, communities, and societies in Vietnam We will also reflect on the challenges and opportunities that arise in the modern era, as festivals adapt to the changing dynamics of our globalized world

4 Outlining the presentation:

Our presentation includes five parts First, we will introduce to you the cultural beauty of Vietnam The second part is about special festivals The final part mentions: The attitudes of people towards traditions and culture of Vietnam.

DEVELOPMENT 1 Cultural of Vietnam

Today, I would like to introduce the captivating and diverse culture of Vietnam Situated in Southeast Asia, Vietnam boasts a rich and unique heritage that has captivated people from all around the world Its cultural tapestry is woven with deep-rooted traditions, vibrant festivals, and a culinary journey that leaves a lasting impression.

Vietnam's culture is a living testament to its rich history and the amalgamation of various influences Shaped by centuries of dynastic rule, colonial occupation, and regional interactions, Vietnamese culture is a harmonious blend of indigenous customs and external influences Anchored by strong family ties and a profound respect for ancestors, Vietnamese traditions and customs play a central role in daily life Ancestor worship, carried out with heartfelt reverence, connects the living with their past and exemplifies the deep-rooted values of filial piety and gratitude.

Vietnamese culture is also renowned for its artistic heritage Traditional art forms, such as water puppetry and Vietnamese opera, have been passed down through generations and continue to enchant audiences today Handicrafts like intricate lacquerware, delicate silk weaving, and beautiful pottery are a testament to the skill and creativity of Vietnamese artisans.

Vietnamese cuisine is a culinary journey of flavors and textures From the world-famous pho to the savory spring rolls and delectable banh mi, Vietnamese food is a symphony of tastes that tantalizes the taste buds The extensive use of fresh herbs, spices, and ingredients sourced from local markets make Vietnamese cuisine both healthy and mouth wateringly delicious.

In conclusion, Vietnamese culture is a treasure trove of traditions, festivals, and culinary delights that have been shaped over millennia Its warmth, resilience, and rich history make it an enchanting cultural experience for both locals and visitors Exploring Vietnam's culture offers a glimpse into the heart and soul of this captivating nation As an integral part of the country's identity, Vietnamese culture continues to be cherished and celebrated, making it an unforgettable journey for those who seek to immerse themselves in its timeless charm.

2 Festivals of Vietnam2.1 Mid-Autumn Festival

2.1.1.Historical and Cultural Significance:

Mid-Autumn Festival, or Tet Trung Thu, stands as one of Vietnam's most significant traditional celebrations Typically occurring on the 15th day of the eighth lunar month, equivalent to September in the Gregorian calendar, this festival coincides with the fullest moon of the year The origins of the Mid-Autumn Festival can be traced back to ancient times when Vietnamese farmers celebrated the end of the harvest season One of the most cherished legends associated with this festival is the story of Cuoi, a kind-hearted woodcutter who was banished to the Moon.

2.1.2 Lanterns and Lights:

Central to the festival's atmosphere are the colorful lanterns that illuminate the night sky Intricately crafted in various shapes and sizes, these lanterns symbolize brightness and good fortune Streets and homes are adorned with these radiant decorations, creating a magical ambiance that captivates both young and old.

2.1.3 Mooncakes and Traditional Treats:

No celebration in Vietnam is complete without indulging in delicious mooncakes These sweet pastries, often filled with lotus seed paste or red bean, are intricately designed with symbols of luck and happiness Families come together to share mooncakes, tea, and various traditional treats, reinforcing the spirit of togetherness.

2.1.4 Dragon and Lion Dances:

As the sun sets and the moon rises, the streets come alive with vibrant dragon and lion dances Dancers adorned in colorful costumes and masks move gracefully to the beat of drums and the clashing of cymbals These performances are believed to bring good luck and prosperity to communities, making them an integral part of the Mid-Autumn Festival celebrations.

2.1.5 Children's Joy:

For children, the Mid-Autumn Festival is a time of immense joy They eagerly anticipate the festival as they prepare for the traditional "di bi" parade, where they dress in colorful costumes, carry lanterns, and march in processions through their neighborhoods The laughter and excitement of the young ones add an infectious energy to the festive atmosphere.

2.1.6 Conclusion:

The Mid-Autumn Festival in Vietnam is a splendid blend of cultural richness, familial warmth, and the beauty of tradition It serves as a time for reflection, gratitude, and the strengthening of bonds among family and friends As lanterns light up the night and mooncakes are shared, the Mid-Autumn Festival continues to be a cherished and cherished celebration that brings people together in the spirit of love and unity.

2.2 Lunar New Year

2.2.1 Time

Lunar New Year is the biggest traditional festival of the year in Vietnam Tet is the transition time between the old year and the new year from the 30th to around the 10th day of the first lunar month.

2.2.2 Traditional Lunar New Year activities

Before Tet, people buy a lot of things such as candy, clothes, giong leaves, fruits, Our country also has customs such as worshiping the Kitchen God on the 23rd day of the twelfth lunar month and worshiping the New Year on the 29th or 30th day of the twelfth lunar month.

In the North, during Tet, people often buy peach blossoms and kumquats But in the South, people buy apricot blossom trees to display during Tet.

During Tet, people often go to celebrate the New Year, visit relatives and friends and wish each other good health, a happy and prosperous new year, and good fortune.

Vietnamese people also pay great attention to ancestor worship during Lunar New Year They see this as an activity to report to their ancestors about family problems in the past year and also as a wish for a successful new year.

Another indispensable activity is to celebrate the coming of age At the beginning of the new year, the elderly and children will receive lucky money, this is considered a wish for good health, for young people to grow up quickly and for the elderly to live a long life year old.

People often cook traditional dishes together such as: spring rolls, spring rolls, sausages, chicken, fatty meat with pickled onions, to eat together with family and close friends after a year of work hard work, far from family.

Opening stores at the beginning of the year is also a popular activity Depending on each person, people will choose the day to open stores after the Tet holiday in accordance with feng shui The 10th day is also known as the day of the god of wealth and on this day people often go shopping gold at the beginning of the year, hoping for a very successful business year.

Banh Chung is an indispensable traditional cake in Tet meals The cake is made from sticky rice and filled with green beans and meat The cake is wrapped in Giong leaves, and boiled for a long time, about 8 hours.

2.2.3 Conclusion

Tet is a very famous festival in Vietnam and the biggest holiday of the year Tet is a time when everyone has fun, welcomes the new year, and enjoys spring travel During Tet, there are many big festivals, making everyone have a happy time at the beginning of the new year because Vietnamese people have a point of view If the beginning of the year is happy, the whole year will be the same.

3 Critize people’s attitude3.1 Critize people’s attitude

The attitudes of people towards traditions and culture vary widely Some individuals hold a deep appreciation and reverence for their cultural heritage But there are also a lot of people who are destroying the good traditions, it is slowly becoming popular and causing serious harm to our own country It affects the economy, culture, and education Worst of all, it harms the image of our country, deteriorate in the eyes of international friends

Nowadays, Culture is dying due to the lack of efforts to preserve and retain culture It have some reasons like: Parents do not emphasize the practice of culture and tradition in children’s upbringing; Schools often neglect cultural studies for students; The government is not making efforts to retain the culture of its people

Another reason for the loss of culture is the rapid globalization Nowadays, Western civilization significantly affects the behaviors and thinking of people in other communities

discreet and they come to temples, pagodas to take photos We know that temples or pagodas are sacred places So, we should wear dignified clothes We just get on well but we aren't insoluble Or another problem is, Southerners use the word Bac Ky to regional distinction with Northerners Meanwhile, our ancestors took many years to unify the country Both of these problems are all worthy of criticism and need to be excluded.

3.2 Solutions

So individuals should maintain cultural tradition by continuing practicing and sharing it with others Schools and parents should focus on educating the young generation about cultural and traditional values The government should conduct campaigns to raise social awareness of the severity of culture loss by propagation in the media This would help people understand the importance as well as the urgency to preserve their culture.

1 Reviewing all main points

In this discussion, we have explored the richness and significance of festivals and cultural celebrations We have delved into the cultural heritage of nations, witnessed the diversity of cultures, and recognized the vital role that festivals play in preserving and honoring these values Through the exploration of traditional festivals, we have seen the power of these celebrations in uniting communities, promoting understanding, and creating cherished memories We have witnessed the harmony between people and culture, understanding that festivals are not just temporary events but important milestones in our journey.

This discussion has also shed light on the challenges that festivals face in the modern era Globalization and social changes have influenced how we organize and experience festivals However, we have also witnessed the strong determination of individuals in preserving and creating community-oriented festivals that adapt to the realities of the modern world while still maintaining their unique cultural identity.

With our understanding and appreciation for diverse cultures, we can enjoy wonderful festivals and inspire future generations We can actively participate in preserving cultural heritage and safeguarding the precious values of festivals We can use festivals as bridges for communication and understanding among nations and contribute to building a peaceful and vibrant multicultural world.

Let us spread our passion and respect for festivals and cultural celebrations and continue to explore new discoveries in our lives Culture and festivals always create memorable moments, profound experiences, and priceless memories Let us be grateful and honor the values that festivals bring to our lives.

2 Ending the presentation

Thank you for being part of this enlightening discussion, and may the spirit of festivals continue to inspire and unite us all.

Do you have any questions about our topic? All comments are welcome!