Red Envelope “li xi” design by Neis Wai
Art Licensing contact: Vinh@ArtSHINE.com
Every year, as the first dawn of Lunar New Year breaks, millions of families across Asia embrace centuries-old traditions that bridge generations. Growing up in Vietnam, these celebrations held a special magic that still resonates deeply in my memories.
The festivities begin the night before, following an elaborate reunion dinner where extended family gathers to share traditional dishes. One of the most anticipated moments, especially for children, is the giving of “li xi” or red envelopes. Parents and married siblings present these small red packets containing money, symbolizing good fortune and blessings for the year ahead. The excitement of receiving these envelopes is a cherished childhood memory – counting our lucky money and dreaming about toys we might buy or adding to our growing savings.
The household stays awake late into the night, filled with laughter as family members engage in traditional games. There’s a belief that staying up late will bring longevity to one’s parents, making this late-night gathering both meaningful and joyful.
The first morning of the New Year holds its own special significance. Everyone dresses in new clothes, often in bright colours, symbolizing a fresh start. The traditional breakfast is an elaborate affair – a nine-course vegetarian meal that reflects the Buddhist influence on Chinese culture. The finale of this morning feast is particularly symbolic: sweet long-life egg noodles served with a boiled egg in each bowl. This dish represents longevity and prosperity for the coming year.
Following breakfast, the house becomes a hub of activity as relatives arrive to pay their respects to the elders. Cousins, uncles, and aunts bring golden oranges decorated with auspicious messages of good fortune. These visits follow a precise order, with immediate family members arriving first, followed by extended family and close friends. Each visit involves the exchange of New Year greetings, with carefully chosen words wishing health, success, and prosperity.
The tradition of red envelope giving continues throughout these visits. Young children and unmarried adults receive these blessed packets from their elders and married relatives. It’s a tradition that reinforces family bonds and hierarchies while spreading joy and good fortune. The amount inside is less important than the symbolic gesture of blessing and good wishes.
The rest of the day unfolds with more vegetarian meals, a tradition believed to cleanse the body and spirit for the new year. The streets come alive with the sounds of firecrackers (where permitted) and children playing traditional games. Families visit local temples to pray for blessings, and neighbourhoods buzz with activity as people make their rounds to visit friends and relatives.
These celebrations reflect deep-rooted values in Vietnamese culture – the importance of family unity, respect for elders, and the belief in starting the new year with positive actions and thoughts. The vegetarian meals represent compassion and mindfulness, while new clothes symbolize a fresh beginning. Every element of the celebration carries meaning and contributes to the collective hope for a prosperous year ahead.
The tradition of staying vegetarian on the first day is particularly significant, believed to bring good karma and set a peaceful tone for the year. It’s a practice that encourages mindfulness and compassion, core values in Vietnamese Buddhist culture.
Modern celebrations might have evolved, with some families adapting traditions to contemporary lifestyles, but the essence remains the same – strengthening family bonds, honouring ancestors, and welcoming good fortune. Some families now include video calls to connect with relatives abroad, blending traditional customs with modern technology.
For those who’ve moved away from their homeland, these New Year traditions become even more precious, a way to maintain cultural connections and pass on heritage to the next generation. The memories of those early morning greetings, the excitement of receiving red envelopes, and the joy of family gatherings create a tapestry of traditions that continues to enrich lives across generations.
The first day of Lunar New Year is more than just a celebration – it’s a reflection of cultural values, family bonds, and hopes for the future. Whether celebrated in Vietnam or anywhere else in the world, these traditions continue to bring families together, creating memories that last a lifetime and keeping cultural heritage alive for future generations.
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