The first days of the year are a time for families to come together, chat, and toast to the new year. It is a long-standing and meaningful tradition in Vietnam, where, on the morning of the first day, children will offer their best wishes to their elders, who will then give them lucky money in red envelopes, symbolizing a blessing for the new year.
The Meaning of Lucky Money on Tet Holiday
1 Unique and Meaningful Ways to Give Lucky Money
Nowadays, the way lucky money is given has become more creative and unique, keeping up with modern trends.
Unique Envelope Designs
Red envelopes with catchy and trendy phrases have become popular, such as “The more the merrier,” “It’s not about who gives it, but how much,” “Beauty doesn’t matter, it’s all about attitude,” and “Winning is great, but so is lucky money!” These envelopes stand out with their fun and quirky messages.
Creative Ways to Give Lucky Money
Instead of simply giving lucky money to children, a fun twist can be added by turning it into a game where the winner receives the envelope. Alternatively, envelopes can be hung on peach or apricot trees, and recipients can pick them as a fun activity.
Lucky Money Doesn’t Have to Be Cash
While cash is traditional, it’s now common to give vouchers, jewelry, precious stones, or even fund someone’s travel plans as a form of lucky money.
Electronic Lucky Money
With the rise of digital wallets like MOMO and ZALO Pay, sending lucky money electronically has become commonplace, especially among the younger generation. It’s a quick, modern, and convenient way to spread holiday cheer.
Unique Ways to Give Lucky Money
2 Things to Avoid When Giving and Receiving Lucky Money
Stick to Red and Gold Envelopes
Traditional beliefs hold that red envelopes are auspicious and symbolize good luck and fortune. Additionally, the color red is associated with luck and is believed to ward off evil spirits. While these beliefs are not as prevalent today, many still prefer red envelopes for their cultural significance and beauty.
Avoid the Number 4
When giving lucky money, it is considered unlucky to give amounts ending in the number 4, such as VND 40,000 or VND 400,000. This is because the word for “four” in Vietnamese sounds similar to the word for “death,” and it is therefore considered inauspicious.
Instead, opt for amounts ending in the number 8, which symbolizes prosperity and good fortune. Other lucky numbers include 6, which represents smoothness, and 9, which stands for longevity.
No Old or Crumpled Bills
It is considered disrespectful to give old or crumpled bills in red envelopes. New, crisp bills are preferred, symbolizing a fresh start and good luck for the new year. Using old bills is believed to bring bad luck and negative energy.
Give Rounded Amounts
It is customary to give lucky money in rounded amounts, such as VND 50,000, VND 100,000, or VND 500,000. This symbolizes completeness and abundance. Odd numbers are generally avoided, as they are considered unlucky.
Receive with Both Hands
Whether you are an adult or a child, it is important to receive the red envelope with both hands as a sign of respect and gratitude toward the giver.
Don’t Beg for More
It is considered rude and disrespectful to ask for more lucky money, especially for children. Doing so takes away from the traditional meaning of the gesture and can be seen as greedy.
Don’t Open the Envelope in Front of the Giver
Opening the red envelope in front of the giver is considered impolite and disrespectful. It implies that you value the money more than the gesture and can be seen as a sign of greed.
3 Some Do’s and Don’ts for Giving Lucky Money
How Much Lucky Money to Give for Good Luck?
Instead of giving amounts like VND 50,000 or VND 100,000, people now prefer to give lucky money in amounts that are considered lucky, such as:
- VND 168,000, which means “may you be prosperous and wealthy.”
- VND 188,000, with the number 8 symbolizing wealth and the repetition of the number emphasizing quick wealth.
- VND 1,001,000, which means “one of a kind,” conveying that the recipient is unique and irreplaceable.
Best Envelope Designs for the 2023 Spring Festival
As 2023 is the Year of the Rabbit, red envelopes featuring cute and creative rabbit designs are all the rage. These envelopes come in various colors and styles, making them a popular choice for the upcoming holiday.
Best Envelope Designs for the 2023 Spring Festival
6 Easy Ways to Make Your Own Lucky Money Envelopes
If you want to add a personal touch, you can easily make your own unique and creative red envelopes. It’s a thoughtful way to spread holiday cheer, and your recipients will surely appreciate the extra effort.
Easy Ways to Make Your Own Lucky Money Envelopes
7 Where to Buy Beautiful and Affordable Lucky Money Envelopes
You can find a wide variety of beautiful and affordable red envelopes at stationery stores, as well as on e-commerce platforms like Lazada, Shopee, and Tiki. In Ho Chi Minh City, you can explore options at local markets, shops, and online stores.
Giving and receiving lucky money is a cherished tradition that symbolizes good luck and fortune for the new year. By following these do’s and don’ts, you can ensure that your gestures are respectful and in line with the cultural significance of this age-old custom.
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