During Tet holiday, the tradition of lì xì or lucky money is one of the most exciting and meaningful parts of the celebration. If you’ve ever experienced Vietnamese Lunar New Year you know how much joy those little red envelopes bring. Given by older family members to the younger ones lì xì isn’t just about money—it’s a heartfelt gesture wishing you good health happiness and prosperity in the year ahead.
The red envelopes called ‘bao lì xì’ may hold different amounts but the true value lies in the blessing they represent. This tradition reflects the deep cultural respect for family and elders strengthening bonds across generations. It’s also believed to bring good luck and drive away bad spirits helping everyone start the new year on a positive note.
For kids, lì xì is one of the highlights of Tet—who wouldn’t love receiving lucky money? But beyond the excitement, it also teaches the importance of saving and appreciating the love behind each envelope. For adults giving lì xì is a way to show gratitude and keep family traditions alive.
No matter how old you are lì xì is a beautiful part of Tet carrying wishes of hope renewal and fortune for the year ahead. So, what is lucky money, and why do all Vietnamese people think of it when Tet comes around? Today, let’s explore the reason that making lucky money has become an indispensable part of Tet celebrations and how Vietnamese people exchange these red envelopes with one another.
The Legend of Vietnamese Lucky Money
The tradition of Lì xì (lucky money) during Tet (Vietnamese Lunar New Year) is deeply rooted in folklore and symbolism. One of the most popular legends surrounding lucky money dates back to ancient times and involves a creature called Tao Quái (evil spirit) that would visit households during the new year, causing illness and misfortune to children.
According to the legend, a couple had a young child who was constantly sick during Tet. One year, the parents were told by a wise elder to put a small amount of money under the child’s pillow on New Year’s Eve. That night, the evil spirit appeared but was frightened by the money, believing it was a divine offering. The child woke up feeling better, and from that moment on, the evil spirit avoided the house.
This story is said to be the origin of Lì xì. Giving money in red envelopes symbolizes protection against bad luck and the hope for health and prosperity in the coming year. It is also a way to share blessings and positive energy, ensuring that the cycle of fortune and happiness continues for the family. Since then, every Tet season, families and friends exchange red envelopes filled with lucky money and heartfelt wishes for good health and a peaceful new year.
Vietnamese Lucky Money Mean is “Li Xi”
During Tet, you’ll probably hear the term lì xì (pronounced “lee see”) a lot. It’s one of the most cherished traditions of Vietnamese Lunar New Year, where you receive red envelopes filled with money as a symbol of good luck, prosperity, and well wishes for the year ahead. If you’re a child or a younger family member, you can expect to get lì xì from parents, grandparents, and even family friends. Sometimes, adults exchange lì xì too, especially to share blessings and strengthen relationships.
The red envelope, or bao lì xì, isn’t just about the money inside. Red is considered a lucky color in Vietnamese culture, believed to bring happiness and ward off evil spirits. The amount of money doesn’t really matter—what’s important is the meaning behind it. Each envelope carries a wish for good health, success, and a prosperous year ahead, making lì xì a beautiful way to spread joy and positivity during Tet.
Who Gives and Receives Vietnamese Lucky Money?
Who will be the giver and who will be the receiver of lucky money? To truly feel the joyful atmosphere of exchanging red envelopes, imagine that you are experiencing Tet in Vietnam, and it is the first day of the new year. You are getting ready to wear new clothes and greet everyone with Tet wishes.
To avoid confusion, let me remind you that Tet in Vietnam follows the lunar calendar, so it usually falls between mid-January and February, rather than on January 1st like in Western countries.
Now, let’s go celebrate Tet! Will you be the one receiving the lucky money or the one giving it?
Who Gives Lucky Money?
Elders and Married People
If you have elders in your family, like grandparents, parents, or older relatives, they’re the heart of the lì xì tradition. Giving lì xì is their way of blessing you with health, happiness, and good fortune for the new year. It’s also a way to strengthen family bonds and show their care in a meaningful way. In Vietnam, every morning on the first day of Tet, grandchildren line up with their hands clasped to wish their grandparents a long and prosperous life. In return, they receive bright red envelopes filled with lucky money. This ancient tradition beautifully reflects the deep-rooted values of respect and filial piety in Vietnamese culture.
If you’re married, you take on a new role in the tradition. Instead of just receiving lì xì, you now give it to younger, unmarried family members—like nieces, nephews, and younger cousins. This custom isn’t just limited to family; it often extends to close family friends too. It’s all about spreading kindness, generosity, and good intentions for the year ahead.
Parents
In Tet, your parents are some of the first. They give you a red envelope filled with lucky money, wishing you good health, happiness, and success in the new year. But more than just money, lì xì is their way of showing love and passing down their hopes for a bright future.
In my home, every early morning on the first day of Tet, while I am still asleep, my parents wake up early, bustling to prepare traditional cakes and red envelopes to give to us. After having breakfast and putting on our new clothes, I will wish my parents a happy new year and receive lucky money from them. My older brother also gave me a red envelope, so by the morning of the first day, I’d already received a lot of good luck. In Vietnam, we call this “lộc đầu năm,” which refers to the positive things and prosperity that people receive during the early days of the new year.
As you grow older and begin working, this tradition comes full circle. You’re no longer just receiving lì xì—you now have the chance to give it back to your parents as a way of expressing gratitude for all their love and support. This small yet meaningful gesture is a way to wish them good health and happiness, just as they’ve always wished for you.
Teacher
In Vietnam, there’s a beautiful saying that reflects the importance of family and education during Tet: “Mồng Một Tết cha, Mồng Hai Tết mẹ, Mồng Ba Tết thầy”—which means the first day of the new year is for honoring your father’s side of the family, the second day is for your mother’s side, and the third day is for your teachers.
On the third day of Tet, it’s a tradition for students to visit their teachers to wish them a happy new year, showing gratitude for their guidance and dedication. Many students bring small gifts or red envelopes as a token of appreciation, though the real value lies in the respect behind the gesture. In return, teachers often give lì xì to their students, just like parents and elders do, wishing them success in their studies and a prosperous journey ahead.
Relatives and Family Friends
Even though lì xì is often associated with parents and grandparents, it doesn’t stop there. In fact, your aunts, uncles, and older cousins—especially those who are married—will likely hand you a red envelope too. This is because lì xì isn’t just about immediate family; it’s a way for the whole extended family to share good fortune and keep traditions alive.
Moreover, family and friends also take part in this custom. If your parents have close friends they consider like family, then don’t be surprised if they give you lì xì when you visit their home during Tet. In Vietnamese culture, relationships extend beyond just blood ties, and lì xì serves as a meaningful way to reinforce those bonds.
Who Receives Lucky Money?
Children
If you’re a kid during Tet, lì xì is probably one of the best parts of the holiday. You’ll get lucky money from your parents, grandparents, and other relatives—each red envelope is their way of wishing you good health, happiness, and success in the new year.
But the fun doesn’t stop there. As a child, you’re the star of the show, which means everywhere you go, there’s a good chance someone will hand you a red envelope. Whether it’s at family gatherings, visits to relatives’ houses, or even when tagging along with your parents to see their friends, you’ll keep collecting lì xì like little treasures. That’s why I still wish I could always be a child so that during Tet, I could just eat, sleep, receive lucky money, and play all day long.
Young Adults (Unmarried)
If you’re still unmarried, you’re not too old for lì xì! Younger siblings, cousins, and even close friends who haven’t tied the knot yet still get lucky money during Tet. Your parents, aunts, uncles, and married relatives will happily hand you a red envelope, wishing you a year filled with success and happiness.
Elderly People
You might think lì xì is just for kids, but in some families, elders receive lucky money too. While it’s tradition for them to hand out red envelopes to younger generations, it’s becoming more common for children and younger family members to give lì xì back to their grandparents or older relatives. As I mentioned earlier, once you grow up and have a stable job, you’ll start lì xì-ing your parents and grandparents as a way to show appreciation. It’s a small but meaningful way to give back to the ones who have always taken care of you and to wish them good health and happiness in the new year.
Tourists (Occasionally)
If you’re visiting Vietnam during Tet, don’t be surprised if someone hands you a red envelope. Tourists sometimes receive lì xì too, especially if you’re spending the holiday with a local family or close friends. It’s not about tradition in this case—it’s more of a warm gesture, a way to welcome you and share a bit of Vietnamese culture. Think of it as a little piece of Tet magic, showing just how much hospitality and kindness mean to the Vietnamese people.
Why is Vietnamese Lucky Money Indispensable During Tet?
You can’t have Tet without lì xì. It’s more than just a fun tradition—it’s a way to share good luck, happiness, and family love. When you receive lì xì, it’s not just about the money inside. It’s a way for elders to pass down their blessings, wishing you health, success, and a lucky year ahead.
Giving lì xì is also believed to bring good luck to the giver. That’s why parents, grandparents, and older relatives happily hand out red envelopes to younger family members. It’s their way of sharing positivity and ensuring that the new year starts off right for everyone. And when you grow up and start working, the tradition flips—you’ll be the one giving lì xì to younger siblings, nieces, nephews, and even your parents and grandparents as a sign of gratitude.
Unconventional Ways to Give Vietnamese Lucky Money
The traditional way of giving li xi by “Bao li xi”
Is there anything better than receiving a red envelope on the first day of the year? Of course, this is a traditional practice and an essential part of the Vietnamese culture of giving lucky money. Even though today we have developed many new forms of giving, the feeling of opening a red envelope is irreplaceable. Every time I open one, it feels like unwrapping a delightful surprise. Each envelope is thoughtfully prepared, featuring beautiful designs with lucky symbols such as carp, apricot blossoms, or fun cartoon characters.
What’s even more special is that Tet is not just an occasion to receive but also an opportunity to give. I remember times when my family and I prepared red envelopes to give to the little ones, and seeing the radiant smiles on their faces warms my heart. This is how we spread joy and happiness, preserving the beautiful cultural values across generations. On the first day of the new year, with a red envelope in hand and wonderful things awaiting, I feel that the celebration of Tet is truly complete.
Hiding Lucky Money in Gifts
Sometimes, lì xì isn’t just handed over in a red envelope—it’s hidden inside gifts, turning the tradition into a fun surprise. You might open a box of sweets, flip through a new book, or even reach for a piece of fruit, only to find a little red envelope tucked inside. It’s a thoughtful and creative way to give lì xì, making the moment even more special. Some families do it to add a personal touch, while others just love the excitement of unexpected lucky money during Tet.
Lucky Money Tree
Some families like to put a fun twist on lì xì by turning it into a Lucky Money Tree. Instead of just handing out red envelopes, they decorate a small tree with them—kind of like a Tet version of a Christmas tree, but instead of ornaments, you get cash. It’s usually placed in the living room or near the family altar, making it both a festive decoration and a symbol of prosperity.
One of the most fun? Instead of simply receiving an envelope, you get to pick one yourself—kind of like a lucky draw. Will it be a big bill or just enough for a cup of milk tea? The surprise makes lì xì even more exciting and keeps everyone entertained!
Giving Vietnamese Lucky Money Online
These days, with everything going digital, lì xì has also gotten a modern upgrade. Instead of the classic red envelopes, people now send lucky money through bank transfers, mobile wallets, or e-wallet apps. It’s quick, convenient, and perfect for those moments when you can’t give lì xì in person.
This method is especially popular among younger generations who are all about cashless transactions. And if you’re far from home or someone you love is miles away, online lì xì makes it easy to still send your blessings. It might not have the same special feeling as holding a red envelope in your hands, but the sentiment remains unchanged.
Lucky Money in Books or Journals
A fun and meaningful way to give Lì xì is by slipping lucky money inside a book or journal. It’s a great idea, especially for those who love reading or writing, as it adds a personal touch to the gift. Imagine flipping through the pages of a new book and suddenly finding a surprise tucked inside—it makes receiving Lì xì even more exciting!
For kids, you might hide it inside a colorful storybook, while for adults, a novel or journal works just as well. Not only does this method keep the tradition alive, but it also encourages learning and creativity. It’s a simple yet thoughtful way to give your best wishes for the new year while making the gift even more special.
How Much is Usually Given as Vietnamese Lucky Money?
How much Lì xì you get during Tet depends on who’s giving it and their budget. For kids and younger people, it’s usually a small amount—somewhere between 20,000 to 100,000 VND ($1 to $4 USD). But if it’s from parents, grandparents, or close relatives, you might see 200,000 to 500,000 VND ($8 to $20 USD), or even more. Elders also receive Lì xì, and sometimes they’re the ones handing out the biggest amounts as a way to show love and appreciation.
Interesting Facts About Lucky Money in Vietnam
Lucky Numbers of Lucky Money or Li Xi
Behind the culture of “lì xì,” there are many fascinating facts that make this tradition even more special. You know, “lì xì” isn’t just about giving money; it’s wrapped up in all sorts of interesting customs. For starters, the amount of money given often follows symbolic numbers. The number 8 is super popular because it represents prosperity, and 9 symbolizes longevity. On the flip side, the number 4 is usually avoided since it sounds like the word for “death.”
More Than Just Kids’ Play
Traditionally, “lì xì” is given to children and unmarried adults, but it doesn’t stop there! Married couples, elders, and even close friends exchange it as a sign of respect and good wishes. The amounts can vary quite a bit too; you might see larger sums going to teens or adults to wish them success and happiness in the new year.
Li Xi Not Just for Tet
Beyond Tet, you’ll also see lucky money being given at weddings, birthdays, and other special occasions. No matter the event, it’s always about sharing good wishes and spreading joy.
Take weddings, for example. Lucky money isn’t just for the bride and groom—it’s also given to the wedding entourage, especially those carrying the gift trays (lễ bưng quả). There’s a belief that participating in this role might “block” your own romantic luck since you’re symbolically delivering blessings to the newlyweds. To make up for it, the bride and groom give Lì xì as a way to “return the luck,” ensuring their friends and family still have a smooth path to love. It’s a sweet tradition that adds even more meaning to the celebration.
Then there are birthdays! For kids, getting lì xì on their birthday is like receiving an extra present, usually with wishes for them to grow up healthy, happy, and successful. Even adults sometimes receive lucky money from parents or grandparents, as a way of celebrating another year of life and wishing for continued prosperity.
Experiencing Lucky Money in Vietnam as a Tourist
If you’re in Vietnam during Tet, you might just get lucky—literally! Even as a tourist, you can experience the joy of receiving lì xì, especially if you’re celebrating with a local family.
Participate in Family Gatherings
One of the best ways to immerse yourself in the tradition is by joining a Vietnamese family for their Tet celebrations. If you’re invited to someone’s home, don’t be surprised if the elders hand you a red envelope as a gesture of goodwill and hospitality. It’s their way of welcoming you and wishing you luck for the year ahead. And while you may feel a little shy accepting it, just smile, say “Cảm ơn” (thank you), and enjoy the cultural experience!
Learn the Etiquette
If you’re spending Tet in Vietnam, you might get lucky and receive some lì xì (lucky money)—but don’t just grab it and run! There are a few simple etiquette rules that will help you make a good impression.
First, always greet elders properly before receiving lì xì. Address them with the right titles, like “Ông” (ohng) for grandfathers, “Bà” (bah) for grandmothers, and “Chú” (choo), “Bác” (bahk), or “Cô” (koh) for uncles and aunts. A heartfelt New Year wish will make a great impression. Here are some common phrases and how to pronounce them:
- “Chúc mừng năm mới” (chook moong nahm moy) – Happy New Year!
- “Con chúc ông bà mạnh khỏe, sống lâu trăm tuổi” (kawn chook ohng bah man kho-eh, sohm loh charm two-ee) – Wishing you good health and a long life!
- “Chúc cô chú làm ăn phát tài” (chook koh choo lahm ahn faht tie) – Wishing you prosperity in your business!
- “Chúc anh chị năm mới vui vẻ, hạnh phúc” (chook anh chee nahm moy voo-ee veh, hanh fook) – Wishing you a joyful and happy new year!
- You can say “8386” – this is a playful way to wish someone prosperity during Tet because the numbers sound like “Phát tài, phát lộc” (faht tie, faht lohk), meaning wealth and fortune.
When someone hands you a red envelope, accept it with both hands as a sign of gratitude. A quick bow or nod while receiving it also shows extra politeness. Avoid opening the envelope immediately, as that can come across as rude. Instead, wait until later to check what’s inside.
If you’re giving lì xì, be mindful of the amount. Avoid numbers with 4, as it’s considered unlucky, and go for lucky numbers like 6, 8, or 9, which symbolize good fortune and prosperity. Also, always use crisp, new bills rather than old or wrinkled ones, as fresh money represents a fresh start for the new year.
Lastly, express your appreciation. A sincere “Cảm ơn” (gahm uhn) – thank you, and a big smile go a long way in showing gratitude and respect. Whether you’re receiving or giving lì xì, it’s all about spreading good wishes and celebrating the spirit of Tet together!
Gift Giving as a Tourist
If you’re lucky enough to be invited to a Tet gathering in Vietnam, bringing a small gift is a great way to show appreciation. Something simple like fruits, tea, or sweets always works, and if you want to make it extra special, consider a bottle of wine or a little souvenir from your home country.
In Vietnam, Tet gift baskets are also super popular. People often buy beautifully wrapped baskets filled with treats like biscuits, dried fruits, tea, and even wine to give to family, friends, or colleagues as a festive gesture. If you’re not sure what to bring, picking up one of these baskets at a local market is an easy and thoughtful option.
Just keep in mind that some gifts are best avoided—things in sets of four or anything black aren’t the best choices since they’re linked to bad luck. If you’re not sure what to give, a small red envelope with a bit of lucky money is always a great option. It’s simple, thoughtful, and brings good wishes for the new year.
Enjoy the Festivities
Spending Tet in Vietnam is something you won’t forget! The whole country bursts into celebration—streets glow with colorful decorations, lion dances bring excitement, and fireworks light up the sky. You’ll see families rushing to local markets, picking out Tet flowers, traditional foods, and lucky charms for the new year.
Specially, you must try some classic holiday treats like bánh chưng (square sticky rice cakes) and nem rán (crispy spring rolls). And don’t just watch—join in! Play traditional games, enjoy live music, and soak up the festive atmosphere. It’s the perfect chance to experience the true spirit of Vietnamese New Year.
Important Do’s and Don’ts When Exchanging Lucky Money on Tet
Do’s for a Joyful Experience
- Give with both hands – Whether you’re giving or receiving lì xì, use both hands to show respect and sincerity.
- Use red envelopes – Red represents luck and prosperity, so never hand over lucky money without one!
- Go for even numbers – Even amounts are preferred, but skip the number 4 since it’s considered bad luck.
- Say thanks properly – When someone gives you lì xì, a small bow, and a cheerful New Year’s wish will go a long way!
Must-Avoid Don’ts for Lucky Money
- Use fresh, crisp bills – Nobody wants wrinkled or torn money in their lì xì! Fresh bills feel more meaningful and represent a clean start for the new year.
- Don’t overdo it – Lì xì is about the thought, not the amount. Giving too much can make things awkward, so just keep it simple and meaningful.
- Skip the married folks – Lì xì is usually for kids, young adults, and elders. Once you’re married, you’re on the giving side, not the receiving one
Lucky Money in Vietnam Is More Than Just a Gift in Your Journey During Tet
When traveling to Vietnam during Tet, you’ll have the opportunity to experience the joy of giving and receiving li xi (lucky money). As you stroll through the streets during this festive season, you may encounter groups of people visiting their relatives to wish them a Happy New Year. You’ll see excited children lining up to receive red envelopes from their grandparents and parents, while adults exchange li xi as a gesture of good wishes.
If you’re fortunate, you might also participate in traditional rituals, such as worshipping the Kitchen Gods or welcoming the New Year with fireworks, where everyone gathers together to pray for a prosperous year ahead. These experiences will not only enrich your trip but also leave you with unforgettable memories of Vietnam’s vibrant culture and hospitality. So, if you have relatives in Vietnam, consider spending Tet with them and exchanging li xi!
If you’re simply visiting Vietnam during Tet, take your time to enjoy the lively atmosphere of the holiday. Many shops may be closed during this time, but you can explore famous tourist attractions where the Tet spirit is still vibrant. Marketplaces like Nguyen Hue Flower Street, Ho Thi Ky Flower Market, Quang Ba Flower Market, and Ben Thanh Tet Market are perfect places to admire the colorful blooms, fruits, and traditional Tet dishes.
Don’t forget to indulge in traditional foods like bánh chưng, bánh tét, gio lua, and various sweet candied fruits in our Saigon Foodie Night Ride. Each dish is not only delicious but also carries special significance during Tet, reflecting the hopes and aspirations of the Vietnamese people. You can also engage in cultural activities like lion dances, playing folk games, or enjoying vibrant artistic performances that take place during this period.
Take the time to explore the unique customs of different regions with our bicycle tours. From the solemn rituals of the North, the lively festivals of the Central region, to the festive gatherings in the South, each area has its own distinctive charm.
