In the Old Quarter, families and business owners began their rituals as early as 11 a.m., with burning of votive paper appearing along sidewalks throughout central districts. “According to tradition, Ong Cong Ong Tao must return to Heaven before noon on the 23rd,” he explained. Families along Hanoi’s Old Quarter hold early Ong Cong Ong Tao offerings on sidewalks. A foreign tourist watches Mr. Hoi burn symbolic US dollar bills during the ritual on Ta Hien Street. Sidewalks across Hang Dao and Hang Bac bustle with paper burning by noon.

Source: VietNamNet News February 10, 2026 02:05 UTC