Enjoy Coffee During Vietnamese Festivals

Vietnamese culture is deeply rooted in traditions and festivals that bring families and communities together. Amidst the vibrant celebrations and age-old customs, one element remains a consistent companion – coffee. Whether it’s during the Lunar New Year, traditional festivals, or family gatherings, coffee has found its place in Vietnamese hearts and homes. This post will take you on a journey through the role of coffee in Vietnamese festivals, highlighting special brews and the communal spirit they foster.

Special Coffees During Tet - Lunar New Year

Tet Nguyen Dan, or Lunar New Year, is the most significant festival in Vietnam. It’s a time of renewal, family reunions, and honoring ancestors. During Tet, special foods and drinks are prepared, and coffee is no exception.

During Tet, Vietnamese people often indulge in unique coffee blends that are both nostalgic and celebratory. One such coffee is Egg Coffee (Cà Phê Trứng), a creamy, sweet concoction made with egg yolks, sugar, condensed milk, and robusta coffee. This drink is reminiscent of the warmth and richness of the festive season. The combination of strong coffee and the frothy, custard-like topping creates a harmonious blend that is both comforting and indulgent, perfect for the cooler weather during Tet.

Another favorite is Coconut Coffee (Cà Phê Cốt Dừa), which combines the refreshing taste of coconut milk with the boldness of Vietnamese coffee. This drink is especially popular in southern Vietnam, where coconuts are abundant. The creamy texture and tropical flavor of the coconut milk balance the intense bitterness of the coffee, making it a delightful treat during the festive season.

Creating Festive Atmosphere

Coffee during Tet is more than just a beverage; it’s a symbol of hospitality and warmth. Families often serve coffee to guests as a gesture of welcome. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee mingles with the scents of traditional Tet foods, creating an inviting and festive atmosphere. Serving coffee during Tet is a way to show respect and appreciation for visitors, and it often accompanies long conversations and reminiscing about past Tet celebrations.

In addition to traditional brews, modern variations of coffee drinks have also made their way into Tet celebrations. Cold brew and iced coffee, often with a twist of citrus or fruit flavors, have become popular among younger generations. These innovative drinks add a contemporary touch to the festive table, appealing to both traditional and modern tastes.

Coffee During Traditional Festivals

Vietnamese culture is rich with traditional festivals, each with its own unique customs and celebrations. Coffee plays a significant role in these festivals, adding to the joy and connection among participants.

Mid-Autumn Festival 

The Mid-Autumn Festival, or Tet Trung Thu, is a time for children and families to gather, enjoy mooncakes, and celebrate the harvest moon. Traditionally, this festival is associated with tea, as the bitter taste of tea complements the sweetness of mooncakes. However, in recent years, the fusion of flavors and modern culinary innovations have brought coffee into the spotlight during this festive season.

Mooncakes with Coffee Flavor

In contemporary Vietnamese culture, mooncakes now come in a variety of flavors, including coffee. Coffee-flavored mooncakes have become a popular choice, blending the rich, aromatic taste of Vietnamese coffee with the traditional sweetness of mooncakes. This innovative twist has delighted many coffee enthusiasts and has added a new dimension to the festival.

Beyond the classic coffee flavor, some bakeries experiment with other coffee-inspired creations. For example, mooncakes might be infused with espresso, cappuccino, or mocha flavors, each offering a unique taste experience. These modern interpretations of mooncakes reflect the dynamic nature of Vietnamese culinary culture, where tradition meets innovation.

By incorporating coffee into the Mid-Autumn Festival, Vietnamese people are not only celebrating the harvest moon but also their love for coffee. This fusion of flavors and traditions highlights the versatility and cultural significance of coffee in Vietnam, making it an integral part of the festive season.

Hung Kings’ Temple Festival

The Hung Kings’ Temple Festival honors the legendary founders of Vietnam. This festival is marked by grand ceremonies, offerings, and cultural performances. During this time, people from all over the country make their way to the Hung Kings' Temple, starting their journey in the early morning.

For many Vietnamese, the day begins with a freshly brewed cup of coffee at home. They often bring this coffee along for the journey to stay awake and energized. The robust and invigorating nature of Vietnamese coffee provides the perfect boost for the long trip ahead. Some people even pair their coffee with a traditional bowl of Pho, ensuring they are well-nourished before setting out.

Starting the journey early in the morning is a common practice during the Hung Kings’ Temple Festival. A strong cup of Vietnamese coffee not only helps participants stay alert but also enhances the overall experience. The combination of the rich aroma of coffee and the savory flavors of Pho makes for a satisfying and energizing start to the day’s activities.

Coffee and Family Gatherings

Family gatherings are a cornerstone of Vietnamese culture, and coffee is a staple at these events. Whether it’s a casual get-together or a special occasion, coffee fosters a sense of community and togetherness.

In modern Vietnamese households, Sunday brunches are becoming increasingly popular. These gatherings are an opportunity for family members to catch up and relax. Coffee is an essential part of these brunches, with popular choices including Vietnamese Iced Coffee (Cà Phê Sữa Đá) and Black Coffee (Cà Phê Đen). The preparation of these coffees, often involving a traditional phin filter, is a communal activity that brings family members together.

The phin filter is a small, metal drip filter unique to Vietnamese coffee culture. Watching the coffee slowly drip through the filter becomes a moment of anticipation and relaxation. It’s a time for conversation, for sharing stories, and for enjoying each other’s company. The slow brewing process encourages a slower pace of life, allowing family members to truly connect with one another.

Experiencing Coffee During Festivals

Experiencing coffee during Vietnamese festivals is a unique cultural journey. Whether you’re a visitor or a local, embracing this tradition can deepen your appreciation for Vietnamese culture.

Join a Local Coffee Tour

Many cities in Vietnam offer coffee tours that take you to historic coffee shops and local roasters. These tours provide insights into the history and significance of coffee in Vietnamese culture. They often coincide with festivals, offering a rich and immersive experience. Coffee tours might include tastings of traditional and modern coffee drinks, visits to coffee plantations, and workshops on coffee brewing techniques.

In cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, you can find coffee shops that have been serving customers for decades, preserving traditional brewing methods and recipes. These historic cafes offer a window into the past, showing how coffee culture has evolved while staying true to its roots.

Learn to Make Vietnamese Coffee

Learning to make Vietnamese coffee is a rewarding experience that offers a deep dive into the country’s rich coffee culture. To start, invest in a traditional phin filter and practice brewing your favorite Vietnamese coffee recipes at home. The phin filter, a simple yet effective brewing tool, allows you to create rich and flavorful coffee with ease.

For those looking to enhance their coffee-making skills, Su Quan Roastery offers an immersive coffee workshop. At Su Quan Roastery, customers can learn to make five types of traditional Vietnamese coffee

The workshops at Su Quan Roastery are designed to provide a hands-on experience, guiding you through each step of the brewing process. From selecting the right coffee beans to mastering the phin filter technique, the skilled baristas at Su Quan share their expertise and passion for Vietnamese coffee.

In addition to learning traditional recipes, attendees also gain insights into the history and cultural significance of coffee in Vietnam. The workshops create a communal atmosphere where participants can share their coffee creations with friends and family, celebrating their newfound skills and appreciation for Vietnamese culture.