Lunar new year envelopes 2025
Lunar New Year, also known as the Spring Festival, is one of the most significant and widely celebrated holidays across many Asian cultures, particularly in China, Vietnam, Korea, and other East and Southeast Asian countries. One of the most cherished traditions during this festive season is the giving of red envelopes, also known as “hongbao” in Mandarin, “lai see” in Cantonese, and “li xi” in Vietnamese. These envelopes, typically filled with money, symbolize good luck, prosperity, and blessings for the recipient. As we welcome the Year of the Wood Dragon in 2025, the tradition of Lunar New Year envelopes continues to evolve with modern trends while maintaining its deep-rooted cultural significance.
Historical and Cultural Significance
The custom of giving red envelopes dates back centuries and is deeply embedded in Asian traditions. It is believed that this practice originated from an ancient Chinese legend involving a demon named “Sui.” According to folklore, Sui would appear on New Year’s Eve to harm children. Parents would place coins wrapped in red paper under their children’s pillows to ward off the demon. Over time, this practice evolved into the giving of red envelopes, symbolizing protection and blessings.
The color red itself holds significant meaning in Chinese culture. It is associated with happiness, good fortune, and warding off evil spirits. The money inside, known as “lucky money” (yasui qian in Mandarin), is meant to bring prosperity and success in the coming year. Traditionally, red envelopes are given to children, unmarried adults, and even employees or service workers as a token of gratitude and good fortune.
Designs and Symbolism of 2025 Envelopes
As we step into 2025, the Year of the Wood Dragon, the designs of Lunar New Year envelopes are expected to showcase the dragon’s powerful and auspicious symbolism. The dragon is considered one of the most revered creatures in Chinese mythology, representing strength, wisdom, and prosperity. Since 2025 is associated with the wood element, we can expect envelope designs that incorporate lush green hues, intricate dragon motifs, and natural elements like bamboo, trees, and swirling clouds.
Many envelopes will feature gold accents, as gold symbolizes wealth and success. Additionally, traditional calligraphy with phrases such as “Gong Xi Fa Cai” (wishing you prosperity) and “Wan Shi Ru Yi” (may all things go as you wish) will adorn the envelopes. In Vietnam, envelopes may display the words “Chúc Mừng Năm Mới” (Happy New Year) alongside cultural motifs like peach blossoms and lucky coins.
Who Gives and Receives Red Envelopes?
Red envelopes are typically given by elders, married couples, and employers to children, younger family members, unmarried adults, and employees. The act of giving is more than just a financial transaction; it is a heartfelt blessing and a way of fostering familial and social bonds.
In a family setting, parents and grandparents give red envelopes to children as a sign of good fortune and protection. Married couples give red envelopes to unmarried relatives and younger siblings. In a professional environment, employers often give their employees red envelopes as a token of appreciation and motivation for the upcoming year.
Modern Trends and Digital Red Envelopes
With the rise of technology, the tradition of giving red envelopes has also adapted to the digital age. In recent years, digital red envelopes, or “e-hongbao,” have gained popularity, especially in China, where apps like WeChat and Alipay allow users to send virtual red envelopes with personalized messages and even animations. In 2025, this trend is expected to continue growing, making it more convenient for people to exchange blessings with friends and family, regardless of their location.
Additionally, modern Lunar New Year envelopes are incorporating creative designs, such as pop-up elements, QR codes for digital money transfers, and even personalized messages. Luxury brands and companies are also capitalizing on the tradition by releasing limited-edition red envelopes as promotional items, often adorned with intricate artwork and premium materials.
Etiquette and Superstitions
While giving and receiving red envelopes is a joyous tradition, there are certain etiquettes and superstitions that should be observed:
- Crisp, New Bills – It is customary to use fresh, new banknotes inside the envelope as a sign of good luck and prosperity. Wrinkled or old bills are considered disrespectful.
- Even Numbers, but Avoid Four – Amounts in even numbers are preferred, as they symbolize harmony and balance. However, the number 4 should be avoided, as it sounds like the word for “death” in Chinese.
- Using Both Hands – When giving or receiving a red envelope, it is polite to use both hands as a sign of respect.
- Do Not Open Immediately – Recipients should not open red envelopes in front of the giver to avoid appearing greedy.
- Giving in Pairs – Some traditions encourage giving red envelopes in pairs to double the blessings.
Lunar New Year Envelopes Beyond China
Although red envelopes are most closely associated with Chinese culture, similar traditions exist in other countries. In Vietnam, red envelopes (li xi) are given during Tết, the Vietnamese Lunar New Year, and often include small amounts of money for children as a symbol of good luck. In South Korea, a similar tradition exists where children receive white or colorful envelopes called “sebaetdon” from their elders during Seollal, the Korean New Year.
