Many people have flocked to Hanoi's Hang Ma Street to buy offerings for the coming Kitchen Gods' Day.

This year, the Kitchen Gods’ Day falls on February 8. According to legend, on this day the Kitchen Gods will begin their trip to visit the Jade Emperor and report on what has happened in the country. Many believe the release of the strong and fast carp into local ponds, rivers and lakes can help transport the Kitchen Gods to heaven.

Hang Ma Street is famous for selling toys, paper goods and paper votive offerings and has been in business for more than 500 years. During these days, it becomes colourful with all types of goods and nice weather also encourages people to go out and shop for the gods.

A set of paper clothes with hat cost about VND150,000 (USD6.57). More detail clothes with perfume and patterns can cost more than VND200,000. According to a seller, the commodities this year are still the same types of traditional offerings. Most of them are made in Dong Ho Village in Bac Ninh Province and Van Hoi Village in Hanoi.

Kitchen Gods Day is considered the busiest shopping days for traders on Hang Ma Street. Besides the offerings for the gods, the sellers also offer other goods for Tet Holiday such as lanterns, paper firecrackers or fake ancient coins.

Some photos of the Hang Ma Street on February 6:

Busy Hang Ma Street in the lead up to Kitchen Gods Day

Colourful offerings displayed on the street

VNF/Dtinews