My sister, cousins and I spoke solely English at dwelling, however we busted out our clumsy, off-key Cantonese (the Chinese language dialect our households communicate) to recite the standard new yr’s greeting kung hei fats choy, which implies “wishing you happiness and prosperity.” As soon as uttered, this magic phrase introduced a shiny red-and-gold envelope into our eagerly awaiting palms.
When is fortunate cash given?
Fortunate cash envelopes—known as lai see in Cantonese and hong bao in Mandarin—are given to youngsters and, in some locations, seniors within the first two weeks of the Lunar New Yr, up till the primary full moon, a day known as the Spring Competition or Chinese language Lantern Competition (this yr, Feb. 5).
Usually, when you get married, it’s your flip at hand out envelopes, and also you’ll obtain fewer your self. There are not any arduous and quick guidelines, although—single adults may also give and obtain lai see. Individuals usually give fortunate cash to their service suppliers. My dad and mom, for instance, convey crimson envelopes for the servers at their common dim sum spot.
How a lot cash are we speaking?
In my youth, I obtained $5 or $10 from every relative and $20 from every dad or mum. Typically, the nearer your relationship is to the recipient, the extra fortunate cash you give, however the quantity is much less essential than the spirit through which it’s given—in Chinese language tradition, the color crimson is an emblem of happiness and good luck.
Fortunate cash isn’t restricted to Lunar New Yr. We additionally give and obtain lai see for particular events like birthdays, weddings, graduations and the delivery of a child. The envelopes now are available a variety of colors and designs. You’ll be able to even get branded new yr’s envelopes from a few of Canada’s massive banks, whilst you’re choosing up the crisp new payments to place inside them (giving outdated, wrinkly money is poor etiquette). And in Asia, you possibly can ship digital “crimson packets” by way of WeChat or AliPay.
What else to present for Chinese language New Yr?
When visiting family, many Chinese language households convey conventional new yr’s sweets and snacks. Oranges and clementines are additionally well-liked items.
Lunar New Yr has grow to be extremely commercialized, even in international locations outdoors of Asia. My inbox is full of emails from way of life and luxurious manufacturers selling Yr of the Rabbit merchandise—every thing from purses, jewelry and sweats to cosmetics, Lego units and yoga mats, some extra thought-about than others.
Deal with your self or a pal should you like, however don’t really feel pressured to purchase. In my expertise, new yr’s items aren’t a part of the custom—and I hope it stays that method, particularly for the reason that Lunar New Yr comes after the spend-y vacation season that features Christmas, Hanukkah and Kwanzaa.