The Culture of the Thai Ethnic Group in Vietnam
The Thai ethnic group, one of Vietnam's 54 ethnic minorities, is predominantly found in the northwestern regions of the country. Known for their vibrant cultural traditions and close relationship with nature, the Thai people have a rich and distinctive cultural identity. Below is a detailed look at their culture, including social customs, rituals, spiritual beliefs, and daily life.

Social Interaction and Etiquette
Thai people value respect and harmony in social interactions. They use polite language when addressing elders or strangers, often accompanied by traditional gestures of respect. Elders are highly respected, and family decisions are usually made collectively.

Culinary Culture
Thai cuisine is deeply rooted in their natural surroundings. Common dishes include sticky rice (khẩu lam), grilled meats, bamboo shoot soup, and fermented foods. Their meals are often prepared using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Special occasions feature dishes such as pa pỉnh tộp (grilled fish) and rượu cần (fermented rice wine consumed communally).

Worship and Spiritual Beliefs
Ancestor Worship:
Thai people maintain altars in their homes to honor their ancestors. Offerings, including food and drinks, are made during festivals and significant family events.

Shamans (Thầy Mo):
The thầy mo is a spiritual leader in the community, responsible for conducting rituals, healing, and communicating with spirits. They play a vital role in maintaining harmony between the physical and spiritual worlds.

Amulets and Charms:
Thai people believe in the power of amulets and charms for protection against evil spirits or to bring good fortune. These are often blessed by shamans or crafted with specific rituals.

Taboos and Superstitions
During the New Year or sacred periods, certain foods, colors, or activities are forbidden to avoid bad luck.

Pregnant women are often subject to taboos to protect the unborn child.

Specific dates and times are chosen for major events, guided by spiritual beliefs.

Funeral Rites
Funerals are elaborate and carry significant spiritual meaning. They involve rituals to guide the deceased’s soul to the afterlife and to ensure they do not linger in the world of the living.

Weddings
Thai weddings are colorful and involve both the bride’s and groom’s families. Dowries are customary, and the celebrations often include traditional music, dancing, and communal feasts. Thai people practice patrilocality, where a bride moves to live with her husband’s family after marriage.If you're lucky enough to come across a local wedding, your guide will be ready to connect you and help you experience the local wedding customs. 

Matriarchal or Patriarchal Society?
The Thai people follow a patriarchal system, with men often holding leadership roles within families and communities.

Traditional Attire
Thai women wear elegant, colorful pieu scarves, paired with traditional long skirts called váy. The khăn piêu is not just an accessory but also a symbol of womanhood and is used in rituals, gifts, and courting traditions.

Weaving and Brocade Making
Weaving is a crucial craft for Thai women, with patterns and colors often reflecting their region or family identity. Using traditional looms, Thai women create intricate textiles for personal use and trade.

Language and Writing
The Thai language spoken in Vietnam is distinct from the Thai language in Thailand, though they share some linguistic roots. Vietnamese Thai people use a writing system derived from ancient Tai scripts, which differs from the modern Thai script used in Thailand.

Spiritual Life and Celebrations

Dancing: Nhảy sạp (bamboo dance) and múa xòe (circle dance) are integral to festivals and symbolize unity and joy.

Rice Wine: Drinking rượu cần from communal jars is a bonding experience during celebrations.

Festivals: Thai people celebrate many festivals, such as the Lunar New Year (Tết) and Lễ hội xên bản (Village Festival), which feature prayers, music, and dancing.

Personality and Lifestyle
Thai people are known for their hospitality, warmth, and resilience. They value community, often working together in agriculture and crafts. Their simple, nature-centered lifestyle is deeply connected to their spiritual beliefs.

Proud of their cultural heritage, the Thai ethnic group continues to preserve its traditions while adapting to modern life, offering visitors a glimpse into their vibrant world.