Vietnamese Red Envelope (Li Xi): All you need to know 2026

1. Lunar New Year & the tradition red envelopes in Vietnam

• What is Lunar New Year in Vietnam?

Lunar New Year in Vietnam, known as Tết Nguyên Đán, is the country’s most important traditional celebration. It marks the beginning of the lunar calendar and usually takes place between late January and mid-February.

Tết is a time for family reunions, ancestor worship, and starting the new year with positive wishes. Many cultural traditions are practiced during this period, including the giving of red envelopes (Li Xi), a custom that symbolizes good luck, happiness, and prosperity

• What is Lucky Money?

"Lucky money," or "lì xì," is a cherished tradition during Lunar New Year, where red envelopes containing money are given as blessings for health, happiness, and success. It is an especially joyful experience for children, who eagerly await receiving these bright red envelopes from adults during Tết celebrations.

More than the money itself, the red envelope symbolizes goodwill and positive intentions, representing the passing of luck and blessings. Along with the "cây nêu" (bamboo pole), firecrackers, and bánh chưng (square rice cakes), "lì xì" is an essential part of Vietnam's traditional Tết, ensuring a year filled with peace, joy, and prosperity.

• What Does "Lì Xì" Mean?

The term “lì xì” originates from the Chinese phrase “lợi thị” (利是), meaning benefit, good fortune, or lucky money. Over time, it became deeply rooted in Vietnamese culture and is now one of the most meaningful traditions of Tết.

In Vietnamese, lì xì is also called “tiền mừng tuổi,” which literally means “money to celebrate growing older.” It reflects a heartfelt wish for longevity, maturity, and a peaceful year ahead.

2. Why are red envelopes important in Vietnamese culture?

• The Spiritual and Cultural History of Red Envelopes

In Vietnamese culture, red envelopes (lì xì) represent protection, blessings, and the hope for a safe and prosperous new year. This tradition originates from ancient beliefs shared across East Asia and has been passed down through generations.

According to a well-known legend, an elderly couple was blessed with a child late in life. During one Tết, eight immortals learned that an evil spirit would come to harm the child. To protect him, they transformed into eight copper coins, wrapped in red paper, and placed them beside the child’s pillow.

When the monster arrived at night, the coins suddenly glowed, frightening it away. From that moment on, lì xì became a symbol of protection from harm, representing the love and care elders pass down to the younger generation.

Red Envelopes in Vietnam’s Royal History

In ancient Vietnam, especially during the Nguyễn Dynasty, the tradition of giving lucky money was practiced within the royal court. During the Lunar New Year, kings would present red envelopes to ministers and members of the royal family as a sign of appreciation and blessing.

These gifts were often given according to rank and merit and were part of grand New Year banquets featuring luxurious dishes such as roasted duck, abalone, sea cucumber, deer tendon, and other ceremonial foods.

This royal custom later spread among the population, gradually becoming a tradition shared by all Vietnamese families during Tết.

3. The role of money in Lì Xì

Money in red envelopes, especially during Tết, symbolizes more than just wealth. It is seen as an auspicious start to the new year, bringing good fortune to both the giver and receiver.

The act of giving is meant to spread blessings, which is why the amount given is less important than the intention behind it. Lucky money is typically given in even amounts, symbolizing the hope for ongoing prosperity. While lì xì can be given as money or gifts, the presentation is crucial, as Vietnamese appreciate the beauty during Tết.

>>> What is Tet? 🎊

Types of red envelopes

• Traditional envelopes: Red envelopes usually come in vibrant red, decorated with apricot blossoms, peach flowers, or festive messages symbolizing luck and prosperity.
  Many traditional designs also feature Vietnamese calligraphy, adding a cultural charm that makes each envelope feel special.

Learn more about this art form in: Vietnamese calligraphy

• Cartoon character envelopes for kids:
  Adorned with beloved characters like Doraemon, Minions, and Hello Kitty, making them especially popular with children. 
  If you want to explore and buy red envelopes, head to Hang Ma Street in Hanoi or Chinatown Market in Ho Chi Minh City to discover a wide array of Tet decorations, including vibrant red envelopes and more. (Read more: Hanoi's Old Quarter: All you need to explore)

• Handmade envelopes:
  Crafted from kraft paper with hand-drawn or decorated designs, perfect for giving loved ones a unique, personalized touch.

Good to know: In Singapore, lì xì envelopes often include modern gifts like vouchers, bus tickets, or travel passes alongside cash. 

While red is traditional, Japan uses white envelopes (Otoshidama) with intricate patterns and the recipient’s name. In Malaysia, Brunei, Indonesia, and Singapore, Malay Muslims give green lì xì during Eid al-Fitr, blending tradition with cultural significance.

4. Who receives lucky money and how are they given?

• For Children and Teenagers

During Tết, elders usually give red envelopes to children and teenagers as a blessing for good health, happiness, and academic success in the year ahead.

The amount is often modest, but for children, receiving lì xì is a joyful moment, it's also a sign of love, care, and encouragement from the family.

• From Younger Generations to Elders

The tradition doesn’t stop with children. Grown-up children and younger family members also give red envelopes to their parents and grandparents. This gesture is a deeply meaningful way to express respect, gratitude, and care for the health and well-being of the family’s elders. 

Receiving lì xì from their children is a source of pride and happiness, a reflection of the love and stability their family brings.

In the past, lucky money was something rare and precious for children, especially during hard times. Today, even as life has become more comfortable, the tradition of giving and receiving lì xì still carries the same warmth and meaning.

>>>> Celebrate Tet in Vietnam with us now! 🌸🏯

5. When is "Lì Xì" given during Tết?

Lucky money is traditionally given on the morning of the first day of Tết, when families gather to welcome the new year and exchange New Year wishes together.

After the first family meal, people usually begin visiting relatives, friends, and neighbors. During these visits, red envelopes are exchanged, especially when children are present.

However, lì xì is not limited to just one day. It is commonly given throughout the first three days of Tết, and in some families, even until the ninth or tenth day of the holiday. Friends and close acquaintances may also exchange lucky money as a gesture of goodwill.

6. How much money to give?

The money given in red envelopes can vary in value, but it usually involves small denominations that symbolize good luck rather than wealth. 

It is common to use new, crisp bills, as they represent a fresh start. The amounts are often chosen based on lucky numbers, avoiding those with negative connotations, such as the number four, which is a bad number to Vietnamese.

Typically, the amount of money depends on the relationship between the giver and the recipient. The key is the intention behind the gift - symbolizing good fortune and prosperity, rather than the actual amount. 

In general, modest amounts such as 20,000 VND, 50,000 VND ($1-$2), or more substantial sums like 100,000 VND to 500,000 VND ($5-$20) are given, depending on the giver’s circumstances. And for newcomers or tourists, simple and symbolic amounts, such as 50,000 - 100,000 VND, are ideal. 

Good to know: In recent years, online lucky money has become a popular trend, especially among the younger generation. This modern approach allows people to share New Year blessings through bank transfers or e-wallets, making the tradition accessible even from afar.

Specific numbers, like 6, 8, and 9, are favored for lucky money, especially online, as they symbolize good fortune. Amounts such as 66, 88, 666, or 888 reflect cultural beliefs and convey well-wishes for the Lunar New Year.

7. Wishes to say when receiving/giving "Lì Xì"

“Greetings are more valuable than a feast,” which highlights the importance of exchanging well-wishes in Vietnamese culture. When visiting a Vietnamese family, it is customary to greet and wish health and happiness to everyone, starting with the elders and moving to younger members.

When receiving lì xì, it is important to thank the giver and offer a kind wish in return. You should accept with both hands, thank the giver, and wish them well. It’s a simple but significant gesture that shows respect for the tradition.

Here are some common phrases include:

• “Chúc ông bà sống lâu trăm tuổi!” (Wishing grandparents a long and healthy life!)
  Chook ohng bah soong low chum two-ee!
• “Chúc cô chú mạnh khỏe, phát tài!” (Wishing aunts and uncles good health and prosperity!)
  Chook go choo man kwair faht tie!
• “Chúc mừng năm mới!” (Happy New Year!)
  Chook moong nahm moy!

As an expat in Vietnam, participating in lì xì can be a meaningful way to embrace local culture. If you are giving lì xì, it’s essential to use red envelopes, give small amounts of crisp new bills, and do so with a smile and kind wishes. 

8. Things not to do when giving and receiving Lì Xì

• Avoid Odd Numbers
  Use even or auspicious amounts (e.g., 60,000 VND or 88,000 VND). Avoid amounts with the number 4, as it symbolizes bad luck in Vietnamese culture.
• Do Not Seal the Envelope
  Unsealed envelopes are easier to open and symbolize smoothness and ease in the coming year.
• Use New, Unfolded
  Money Always use crisp, new bills to signify freshness and avoid folding money. Place it neatly in a long envelope to represent abundance.
• Ensure Equal Amounts for Children
  Give equal amounts to avoid jealousy and maintain harmony among family members.
• Receive with Both Hands
  Always use two hands to show respect when accepting a lì xì.
• Do Not Open in Front of the Giver
  Opening lì xì in front of the giver is considered disrespectful, as it values the money over the giver’s intentions.

9. Tet holiday: more than just lucky envelopes 

• Traditional Foods:

Bánh Chưng and Bánh Tét are iconic sticky rice cakes representing the harmony of heaven and earth. While bánh chưng (square-shaped) is a staple in the north, bánh tét (cylindrical) is cherished in the south.

The festive season wouldn’t be complete without a Mâm Cỗ - a tray of traditional dishes like boiled chicken, spring rolls, vegetable soup, pickled onions, and steamed sticky rice placed on family altars to honor ancestors.

>>>> Learn more about: Bánh Chưng: The Heart of Tet

• Flowers of the Season:

Northern homes are adorned with delicate pink peach blossoms, while southern families prefer vibrant yellow apricot blossoms. Both signify renewal, prosperity, and vitality.

• Temple visits and lucky branches:

Beyond family gatherings, many visit temples to pray for blessings and "pluck luck" (hái lộc). This tradition often involves picking symbolic red envelopes or sprigs of greenery from temple trees, believed to bring good fortune in the year ahead. (Explore: Top 11 Must-Visit Temples and Pagodas in Vietnam)

At Kampá Tour, we also organize a hái lộc đầu năm (New Year’s blessing) experience for our tourists. This special activity offers guests the chance to engage with Vietnam’s traditional culture while marking the start of a prosperous year.

The event is not only a way to greet and wish our guests good health and success but also an opportunity to express our gratitude and share mutual blessings for the year ahead. It’s a heartfelt tradition that connects us all, making the New Year celebration even more meaningful.

Last words

As Tết is getting closer, I realize that the Vietnamese lì xì tradition is meaningful without being complicated. It is a simple way to share good wishes and start the new year with warmth and kindness.

I hope this guide helps you understand how to give Vietnamese red envelope properly, so your lì xì can carry sincere blessings to the people you care about.

I am already preparing my own red envelopes, made by hand and ready for the New Year. What about you?

Sources: Wikipedia, Hanu.edu.vn, 

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