The distribution of red envelopes,
lai see, is common during the
celebration of
Chinese New Year.
Red is considered a
lucky color by
Chinese culture and is often found in their holiday decorations and
bridal gowns. In Chinese culture, it is a custom for older relatives, like
grandmothers and aunts, to give a child a red envelope with
money inside during Chinese New Year. It is also customary for
married couples to give single people the same. It is believed that the red envelope has
positive energy to protect people from
evil, and that it will bring
luck to people who give it and receive it. Since Chinese children usually do not receive regular
allowances, giving them money during these
special occasions is important to them.
How to Make a Red Envelope
Materials:
- Using the template below, trace it onto the red paper and cut it out.
- Fold 1 across to meet 2. Fold 2 across to meet 1.
- Tape sections 1 and 2 together with a small piece of transparent tape.
- Fold section 3 up to meet sections 1 and 2.
- Glue section 3 onto the taped sections 1 and 2.
- Fold flap 4 down last and tuck it inside the envelope. This is the flap of the envelope.
- Decorate the front of the envelope with a graphic and the words, "Gung Ho Fat Choy" meaning "Happy New Year".
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