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 converse) 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 arms.
When is fortunate cash given?
Fortunate cash envelopes—referred to as lai see in Cantonese and hong bao in Mandarin—are given to kids and, in some locations, seniors within the first two weeks of the Lunar New Yr, up till the primary full moon, a day referred to as the Spring Pageant or Chinese language Lantern Pageant (this yr, Feb. 5).
Sometimes, when you get married, it’s your flip at hand out envelopes, and also you’ll obtain fewer your self. There aren’t any onerous and quick guidelines, although—single adults may additionally give and obtain lai see. Individuals typically give fortunate cash to their service suppliers. My mother and father, for instance, carry purple 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 guardian. Typically, the nearer your relationship is to the recipient, the extra fortunate cash you give, however the quantity is much less vital than the spirit during which it’s given—in Chinese language tradition, the color purple 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 start of a child. The envelopes now are available in a variety of colors and designs. You may even get branded new yr’s envelopes from a few of Canada’s huge banks, whilst you’re selecting up the crisp new payments to place inside them (giving previous, wrinkly money is poor etiquette). And in Asia, you’ll be able to ship digital “purple packets” through WeChat or AliPay.
What else to reward for Chinese language New Yr?
When visiting kinfolk, many Chinese language households carry conventional new yr’s sweets and snacks. Oranges and clementines are additionally well-liked presents.
Lunar New Yr has turn into extremely commercialized, even in nations exterior of Asia. My inbox is filled with emails from life-style and luxurious manufacturers selling Yr of the Rabbit merchandise—all the things from purses, jewelry and sweats to cosmetics, Lego units and yoga mats, some extra thought of than others.
Deal with your self or a pal in the event you like, however don’t really feel pressured to purchase. In my expertise, new yr’s presents 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.
