During Tet Nguyen Dan (Lunar New Year), many people choose to venture out or open their businesses on auspicious days, hoping for a smooth and prosperous start to the new year. This tradition aims to set a positive tone for the year ahead, attracting good fortune and ensuring well-being.
The year 2026 falls within Period 9 (2024-2043) of Xuan Kong feng shui, which is governed by the Nine Purple Star of Fire element. In the "Nine Stars" system, the Nine Purple Star symbolizes light, civilization, and spiritual values, influencing the overall energy of this period.
For those planning to venture out or commence business activities, selecting the right direction is crucial. Auspicious directions for 2026 include: the East, which is associated with financial gain, business, production, and trade; and the Southeast, which fosters academic success, examinations, and career advancement.
Below is a detailed guide to auspicious dates and times for venturing out during the first ten days of Tet in the Binh Ngo year:
The 1st day of Tet (Nham Tuat): Auspicious times are from 3-5h and 9-11h.
The 2nd day of Tet (Quy Hoi): This day is less auspicious for venturing out. However, if absolutely necessary, choose 7-9h or 11-13h.
The 3rd day of Tet (Giap Ty): The best time to venture out is from 15-17h. If absolutely necessary, venture out from 5-7h, 11-13h, or 17-19h.
The 4th day of Tet (At Suu): This day is less auspicious for venturing out. If necessary, choose 5-7h, 9-11h, or 15-17h.
The 5th day of Tet (Binh Dan): This day is less auspicious for venturing out. If necessary, choose from 13-15h, or if absolutely unavoidable, from 7-11h.
The 6th day of Tet (Dinh Mao): This is an auspicious day for activities such as venturing out, grand openings, starting business, hanging signs, groundbreaking, raising animals, and laying foundations. Good times are from 5-7h and 11-15h, with the 13-15h timeframe requiring no special precautions.
The 7th day of Tet (Mau Thin): This day is less auspicious for venturing out. If necessary, choose from 7-11h or 15-19h.
The 8th day of Tet (Ky Ty): This day is less auspicious for venturing out. If necessary, choose from 7-9h or 11-15h, with the 13-15h timeframe requiring no special precautions.
The 9th day of Tet (Canh Ngo): This day is less auspicious for venturing out. If necessary, choose from 5-7h or 15-17h.
The 10th day of Tet (Tan Mui): This day is suitable for venturing out, grand openings, weddings, groundbreaking, starting business, moving house, and praying for blessings. Good times are from 5-7h or 15-17h.
Beyond observing auspicious directions and timing, individuals should maintain a relaxed mindset when venturing out at the start of the year, avoiding stress and worry. Dressing neatly and politely contributes to a fresh, vibrant feeling and shows respect for tradition, enhancing the positive energy for the new year.
*Pham Dinh Hai, feng shui and culture expert*
