To your employees: always 100–1,000 yuan (or $20-200) (always given on the last working day before the Chinese New Year holiday) Tips for Giving and Receiving a Red Envelope Giving a Red Envelope. 1. It's a tradition to put crisp, new bills inside a Chinese New Year red envelope. Giving dirty or wrinkled bills is in bad taste. These are filled with money - and symbolize good wishes and luck for the new year ahead. The importance of the hóngbāo isn’t the cash held inside; it’s actually the envelope itself. The red color symbolizes good luck and prosperity in Chinese (and other East Asian) cultures. Here are 8 facts you should know about the historic red envelope The red envelopes given to children, or in some cases unmarried adults, during Lunar New Year are also called ya sui qian. Colloquially, ya sui qian translates to “suppressing age money”, as Chinese New Year and red envelopes represent more than just a gift; they symbolize wealth, generosity, and blessings. Let’s explore how this tradition can teach us valuable lessons about prosperity and connection. A Brief History of Red Envelopes. The tradition of red envelopes dates back to ancient China, during the Qin Dynasty. Ultimately, red envelopes encapsulate the spirit of the Chinese New Year, serving as a reminder of the values of generosity, respect, and hope for the future. As the tradition evolves, it continues to resonate with people around the world, highlighting the universal desire for prosperity and happiness. With Lunar New Year comes one of China’s oldest customs: giving red envelopes to relatives, friends and employees. Known in Mandarin as ‘ hong bao ’ (meaning, ‘red envelopes’) and in Cantonese as ‘ lai see ’ (or ‘ lai si ’, meaning ‘being useful’), these slender, cash-filled packets represent a gesture of thanks, friendship and recognition – a momentary expression of A red envelope (red packet or red pocket), lucky money, hong bao in Mandarin, or lai see in Cantonese, is commonly used as a monetary gift during holidays or special occasions in China, especially during the Chinese New Year. Chinese New Year red packet The Meanings of Red Envelopes. Red is the lucky color in Chinese culture. Red envelopes, also called red packets, lucky money, or hongbao in Chinese, are a popular monetary gift given on some important occasions or festivals in China and some other Asian countries, especially widely seen during the Chinese New Year (Spring Festival). It is a Chinese New Year gift with money stuffed into red paper to kids. Red pocket, red packet, red envelope. What is this magical red thing? Regardless what term you use, 红包 (hóng bāo) are great because they contain money. The money in red envelopes is also known as 压岁钱 (yā suì qián), literally meaning “money to anchor the year(s).” It is also known as “lucky money” or “New Year’s money.” In essence, Chinese New Year red envelopes represent the spirit of unity, generosity, and well-wishes that permeate the festive season. They encapsulate the hopes and aspirations for a prosperous and joyful year ahead, fostering familial ties, and reinforcing the values of love, respect, and shared blessings within the community. 2025 Chinese Snake Year Red Envelopes Celebrate the 2025 Chinese Snake Year with these vibrant red envelopes! Featuring elegant snake-themed designs, they’re perfect for gifting during Lunar New Year, weddings, or special occasions. Part1. Historical Background (The Story of Hong Bao) The tradition of the Chinese New Year red envelope, known as hóngbāo in Mandarin, has deep roots in Chinese history. During the Chinese New Year period, the married or the elderly give red envelopes to children or unmarried juniors. A red envelope is also called yasui qian ("suppressing Sui money"). According to legend, on New Year's Eve, besides the monster Nian, there was a demon named Sui that came out to terrify children while they were asleep. Red envelopes are given during Chinese New Year asGood wishesRed envelopes are a way to share good wishes and positive energy with family and friends.Symbol Chinese New Year red envelopes are gifted by many people across the world. But what are the origins of this cultural custom? While customs vary across Asian countries and cultures, Cheng is Taiwanese-American and grew up celebrating Lunar New Year by partaking in a red envelope exchange, wearing red to bed for an extra The first story is that the ritual of giving children 压岁钱 yā shuì qián originated as a way to ward off a demon known as 祟 suì. This 鬼祟 guǐsuì (鬼 guǐ means ‘demon’ or ‘evil spirit’) would touch children’s heads on the eve of the Chinese New Year, and give them headaches and fever. This Lunar New Year, here's everything to know about the Chinese New Year red envelope tradition, from its origin story to continuing the tradition on Venmo and Cash App. Chinese New Year Crafts for Kids. January 29, 2025 will herald the start of the Year of the Snake in the Chinese zodiac cycle. Below you will find 13 printable patterns for lucky red envelopes and bookmarks that you can use to celebrate this holiday. As the world approaches the Lunar New Year on January 29, 2025, marking the start of the Year of the Snake, the tradition of giving red envelopes, known as hongbao (红包) in Mandarin and lai see (利是) in Cantonese, comes to the forefront of celebrations. This cherished custom is not only a symbol of good wishes and prosperity but also a
Articles and news, personal stories, interviews with experts.
Photos from events, contest for the best costume, videos from master classes.
![]() | ![]() |
![]() | ![]() |
![]() | ![]() |
![]() | ![]() |
![]() | ![]() |
![]() | ![]() |