Vietnamese lucky money (li xi): One of the most meaningful parts of Tet

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Lucky money in Vietnam serves as a treasured symbol of the Lunar New Year (Source: Collected)

Giving Vietnamese lucky money, which is often referred to as “li xi”, is a time-honored cultural tradition in Vietnam, especially during the Vietnamese New Year. These red envelopes symbolize well-wishes and family bonds. The practice of giving and receiving Vietnamese lucky money plays a significant role in strengthening interpersonal relationships within the community.

1. History and significance of Vietnamese lucky money

1.1. The history of giving li xi on the Tet Holiday

Giving Vietnamese lucky money involves the placement of a small sum of money into a red envelope which is typically gifted to children during the Tet Holiday. This tradition is rooted in the belief that li xi serves as a protective charm for children against evil spirits. According to legend, evil spirits would harm children on New Year’s Eve, leading to the gods transforming into bronze coins under a child’s pillow to protect them. This legend gave rise to the tradition of giving Vietnamese lucky money.

Vietnamese New Year lucky money contribute to strengthening family bonds (Source: Collected)

1.2. The significance of Vietnamese lucky money

Giving Vietnamese lucky money, along with other cherished Vietnamese New Year gifts, is a beloved tradition intricately associated with the Tet Holiday. In Vietnam, this custom plays a pivotal role in fostering family connections, conveying well-wishes, and contributing to the celebratory ambiance. Despite the modest sums enclosed, the act of giving li xi remains an indispensable part of Vietnamese culture. The exchange of Vietnamese red envelopes is believed to bring luck for the upcoming year.

>>> Read more: Vietnamese New Year’s foods: A list of traditional dishes in the 3 regions

1.3. When is the best time to give li xi?

In Vietnamese culture, the tradition of giving li xi extends beyond the first day of the Lunar New Year. It encompasses the first three days of the year and can even extend to the ninth and tenth days. This enduring practice creates an atmosphere of joy and togetherness that lingers well after the festivity has ended.

Vietnamese New Year red envelopes often contain amounts baded on Vietnamese lucky numbers (Source: Collected)

2. How much Vietnamese New Year lucky money should be?

The appropriate amount of Vietnamese lucky money varies. It relies on factors such as the relationship between the giver and recipient, their financial situations, and family customs. Numbers hold significance when determining the amount for Vietnamese lucky money, particularly when given online. The numbers 6, 8, and 9 are especially favored, as they symbolize good fortune. Therefore, amounts such as 66, 666, 88, 888, 99, 999, and so on are preferred, as they align with the cultural beliefs that they carry specific well-wishes for the upcoming year.

>>> Check out: Vietnam holiday: A shortcut to the traditional culture

3. Unique ways of giving Vietnamese lucky money

3.1. Giving li xi directly to the recipients

During the Lunar New Year, families often gather in the morning to pay their respects to their ancestors by lighting incense and enjoying a meal together. This is a moment when younger family members convey their best wishes to the elders. In response, grandparents and parents bestow Vietnamese red envelopes upon the children.

Giving Vietnamese lucky money in red envelopes is a cherished tradition during the Lunar New Year (Source: Collected)

3.2. Giving Vietnamese lucky money online

In modern times, the tradition of giving Vietnamese lucky money has expanded beyond seniors and now includes people of all ages. It is common to not just celebrate older family members but also extend the practice to friends, colleagues, and neighbors during the Tet Holiday. Additionally, the trend of giving Vietnamese lucky money envelopes online has gained popularity, especially among the younger generation, allowing those living far away from their families to celebrate the occasion with their loved ones through digital means.

>>> Read more: Public holidays in Vietnam: Tips to join the festivities

4. Must-know tips for giving lucky money in Vietnam

When it comes to Vietnamese red envelope etiquette, it is important to consider a few key points:

• Opening the envelopes in front of the giver should be avoided, as it is considered impolite and may give the impression that you prioritize material gain over the giver’s goodwill.
• It is advisable to give even amounts of li xi rather than odd ones, as odd numbers can represent incompleteness. Even amounts are considered more appropriate.
• Avoid giving Vietnamese lucky money with amounts associated with the number 4, as this number is symbolic of unfortunate events in Vietnamese culture.
• Choose new, well-kept envelopes for li xi, as old or tattered ones may carry negative energy from the previous year. Envelopes that come with considerate messages for the recipients are preferable.

Receiving li xi with both hands is a gesture of respect to the person giving it (Source: Collected)

During the festive season, you can maximize your Vietnam travel experience by exploring renowned cities like Hanoi, Hoi An, Nha Trang, and Phu Quoc. These destinations provide a range of celebrations, enabling you to deeply engage with Vietnamese culture.

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Visit VinWonders to experience an unforgettable adventure during your trip to Vietnam

>>> Book tickets to VinWonders Phu Quoc, Nha Trang, Nam Hoi An, VinKE & Vinpearl Aquarium and VinWonders Wave Park & Water Park to enjoy a multitude of delightful moments with your loved ones!

Giving Vietnamese lucky money represents a cherished tradition during events like the Vietnamese New Year. These red envelopes serve as more than just gifts; they encapsulate heartfelt well-wishes, affirming the enduring importance of cultural traditions in Vietnam.