Hanoi (VNA), Jan. 25 -- Passing down through generations and continued with equal enthusiasm today, "Xong dat" (first footing), a Tet tradition in Vietnam, has always been associated with hopes for a fruitful year ahead.

According to the tradition , the first guest to enter the house after midnight on the Lunar New Year's Eve is believed to have a bearing on the family's fortune throughout the year.

Many families ask a close friend or relative to carry out this New Year mission.

To ensure good luck for the house, the selected "first foot" is normally required to have zodiac signs compatible with the host. He or she should also be successful and content with life.

The invited guest usually visits the house in the morning of the first d...