While Chinese New Year falls on January 28 this year, the celebrations typically last for a good while longer, from well before New Year's Eve? to the Lantern Festival on the 15th day of the new lunar year. One of the best-known traditions during this period is the giving out of red packets containing lucky money.

Red packets sold in Hong Kong. /Photo by Mao Dan

In Hong Kong, red packets are called Lai See. They are delicately designed, for different families and occasions, and are given widely as a way of sharing blessings.

Red packets sold in Hong Kong. /Photo by Mao Dan

Before the Chinese New Year, many shops and stalls begin selling Lai See envelopes of various types and prices. In Hong Kong, red packets are given not only during the two weeks of the Spring Festival season, but also on weddings and birthdays. Employees usually receive Lai See from their bosses at their company’s year-end party, and on the first working day after the lunar new year.

Red packets sold in Hong Kong. /Photo by Mao Dan

It doesn’t matter how much lucky money you put in each red packet, but it’s highly recommended to use crisp, brand-new bills.

Red packets sold in Hong Kong. /Photo by Mao Dan

During the Lunar New Year, you can ask for red packets by saying: kung hei fat choi, lai see dou loi, meaning, wish you prosperity, give me lucky money!