Lunar New Year is more than just a celebration; it’s a cherished tradition that brings families together, honors ancestors, and welcomes prosperity and good health into the new year. Our VP of Software Development, Darren Tran, was born in Vietnam and came to the states as a young child. He’s made it a personal mission to keep these cultural traditions alive and pass them on to the next generation. 

A Family Tradition Rooted in Heritage 

Darren’s story spans several continents, with his parents born in China and his birth in Vietnam. For him, Lunar New Year is more than just a celebration- it’s a deep connection to his Chinese heritage, rooted in family, health, and prosperity. He’s passionate about passing these traditions on to his children, ensuring they understand the holiday’s deeper meaning. “A lot of these customs risk fading after the second generation,” he shares. “As long as I’m alive, I want to keep them going.” 

Growing up, he looked forward to receiving the iconic red envelopes, or hongbao (红包). “Getting those red envelopes as a kid was always exciting. It wasn’t just about the money—it was about the blessings that came with it,” he recalls. Traditionally, these envelopes are given to children and unmarried individuals, symbolizing good health and fortune. The tradition lives on in his home, ensuring his children feel the same excitement and blessings. 

The Joy of Reunion: Feasting and Festivities  

Lunar New Year is a time of joyous reunions, and Darren fondly remembers the gatherings at his aunt’s house, filled with laughter, gambling, and delicious food. “Gambling is a huge part of our celebrations,” he laughs. “I used to love playing a game where you bet on different animals—winning was always a thrill.” 

Traditional dishes, made from the native ingredients of each culture’s homeland, take on deeper meaning when enjoyed during the Holidays. Darren’s Lunar New Year favorites include egg rolls and fried turnip cake, a dish made by shredding Chinese radishes, mixing them with flour and peanuts, and frying them to crispy perfection. “Every dish has meaning,” he explains. “We exchange oranges for prosperity, and a plate of assorted fruits, like watermelon and tropical fruits, represents different blessings.”
A Celebration That Endures  

Despite the fast-paced modern world, Darren believes that Lunar New Year traditions should never be forgotten. “The firecrackers, the dragon dances, the temple visits—it all matters,” he says. “Like how people go to mass on Christmas, we go to the temple to pray, burn incense, and honor our ancestors.” 

At Reviver, we celebrate the diversity of our team and the cultural traditions that shape who we are. Darren’s story is a reminder that while times change, traditions endure through those who cherish and preserve them.