During the Lunar New Year, the Vietnamese people celebrate the coming of age of their children and grandchildren, and the tradition of Lì Xì, or lucky money, is an integral part of this celebration. Lucky money is typically placed in colorful red, yellow, or pink envelopes. Children and grandchildren in the family receive these envelopes as a way in exchange to wish their elders a happy New Year and receive blessings for good luck.
Throughout the holiday, adults, grandparents, parents, brothers, uncles, and aunts will congratulate and celebrate the coming of age of their children and grandchildren. Not only children but the elders can also receive Lì Xì during the Lunar New Year. When children and grandchildren grow up, go to work, and have an income, they will give their grandparents and parents red envelopes to wish them good health, luck, and peace. The festivities last from Lunar New Year’s Eve until the 2nd and 3rd days of the Tet holiday. The most important aspects of the tradition involve sincerity, blessings for peace and prosperity, and wishes for good health, luck, and true happiness.
The custom of celebrating the coming of age is a wonderful tradition that expresses love for children, respect for the elderly, and a desire for a favorable and lucky new year. This practice has been passed down from ancient times to the present and remains one of the most anticipated events during Tet.
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Source: Vietnam Insider