Lucky Money In Vietnam: Top Cultural Facts & Guide

The Lunar New Year (Tet Nguyen Dan) is the soul of Vietnamese culture. If you have booked a tour with Vietpower Travel during this magical season, you are in for a treat. As you walk through the bustling streets of Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, you will see a sea of red. People exchange bright, decorated envelopes with warm smiles.

This beautiful custom is known as Lucky Money, or "Lì Xì" in Vietnamese. Is it just a financial gift? No, it is much more than that. It is a spiritual ritual that has existed for centuries. But where did it come from? Why is the envelope red and not gold? Let’s dive deep into this fascinating Tet tradition to uncover the hidden stories that guidebooks rarely tell you.

1. What Is Lucky Money In Vietnamese Culture?

First, let's define this unique custom clearly to avoid any cultural misunderstandings. What is lucky money exactly?

In simple terms, Lucky Money is a small sum of money placed inside a decorated red paper envelope. Vietnamese people give it to children, elders, and friends to welcome the new lunar year. The Vietnamese name "Lì Xì" is believed to originate from the Cantonese word "lishi", which means "money of luck" or "money of good fortune".

1.1. More Than Just A Financial Gift

It is crucial for tourists to understand that Lucky Money is not a financial transaction. It is not a charity for the poor, nor is it a bribe for services. It is a spiritual New Year gift. Locals believe that the money inside represents a "seed" of prosperity.

When you give this seed to someone, you are wishing for that seed to grow into wealth, health, and happiness for the receiver in the coming year. The gesture focuses entirely on the symbolic meaning, not the purchasing power of the bill.

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2. The Legend Of The Eight Fairies And Lucky Money

Why do people perform this ritual every year? The logic behind the custom comes from a fascinating ancient legend that has been passed down for generations.

2.1. The Story Of The Demon "Sui"

Ancient folklore tells of a malicious demon named "Sui". This demon only appeared on New Year's Eve. It had a terrible habit of touching the heads of sleeping children. The touch of the demon "Sui" would cause the children to get sick, cry uncontrollably, and suffer from bad fevers.

Parents were terrified. They had to stay awake all night to watch over their children, lighting lamps to keep the demon away.

2.2. The Power Of The Red Paper Envelopes

One year, a couple prayed fervently for protection. Eight passing fairies heard their prayers and decided to help. The eight fairies transformed themselves into eight copper coins. The parents wrapped these coins in a piece of red paper and placed them under the child's pillow.

When the demon "Sui" arrived and tried to touch the child, a bright golden light flashed from the coins inside the red paper. The light was so powerful that it scared the demon away instantly. 

Since then, people have used coins wrapped in red paper now evolved into red envelopes as a protective charm. This story explains why the envelope itself is considered more important than the money inside; it is a shield against evil.

3. The Spiritual Meaning Behind Red Envelopes

Many tourists misunderstand this tradition by focusing only on the currency. However, the soul of the custom lies in the red envelopes.

3.1. Symbolism Of The Color Red In Vietnam

In Vietnamese and Asian philosophy, colors have deep meanings. Red is the color of the sun, fire, and blood. It symbolizes "Yang" energy (positive energy), which brings life, warmth, and vitality.

In contrast to some Western cultures where red might signal danger or "stop", in Vietnam, red is the color of good luck, celebration, and happiness. Giving a red packet means you are sharing your positive life energy. You are warding off bad luck and bringing safety to the receiver for the next 365 days.

3.2. Sending Spiritual Blessings To Loved Ones

When you hand over a red envelope, you are doing more than giving a gift; you are sending specific blessings.

• For Children: The money is often called "tien hay an chong lon", which means a wish for them to eat well, grow fast, and study hard.
• For Grandparents: The envelope represents a wish for longevity and health, hoping they will live long to see their descendants prosper.

The spiritual value always outweighs the material value. A small bill given with a sincere heart is worth more than a large bill given without respect.

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4. Who Gives And Receives Lucky Money In Vietnam?

The flow of giving reflects the Vietnamese family structure and social order. Who gives and receives Lucky Money depends heavily on age, marital status, and social hierarchy.

4.1. The Traditional Family Hierarchy

Traditionally, the flow of Lucky Money goes from the "capable" adults to the "dependent" or "respected" members of the family.

• Adults to Children: This is the most common form. Once you are married or have a stable job, you are expected to prepare envelopes for the younger generation (nephews, nieces, children of friends).
• Adult Children to Parents: This is a vital act of filial piety. On the first day of Tet, adult children ceremoniously give Lucky Money to their parents and grandparents. It is a way to say "Thank you for raising me" and to wish them a long life.

4.2. Can Friends And Colleagues Exchange Gifts? 

Yes, the tradition has become very flexible in modern times. Today, friends and colleagues often exchange New Year gifts to share joy and strengthen relationships.

• In the Workplace: It is common for bosses to give "Lì Xì" to all employees on the first working day after the holiday. This is not a bonus; it is a wish for a smooth and successful business year.
• For Tourists: If you have a local guide, a driver, or a hotel staff member who has been helpful, giving them a small red envelope is a wonderful gesture. It shows that you respect and appreciate their culture.

5. When Is Lucky Money Given During Tet?

Timing is a crucial part of the ritual. You cannot just give the envelopes at any random moment. When is lucky money given to ensure the best luck for both the giver and the receiver?

5.1. The First Morning Of Tet

The ritual typically begins right after the New Year's Eve (Giao Thua) ceremony or on the morning of the first day of Tet. Families wake up early and put on their best new clothes. They gather in the living room to burn incense for ancestors.

Then, the younger members line up to bow and offer formal greetings to the elders. After the greetings, the elders distribute the red envelopes.

5.2. The Three Days Of Tet

The custom continues throughout the main days of the festival:

• Day 1 (Father’s Tet): Usually reserved for the father's side of the family (paternal relatives).
• Day 2 (Mother’s Tet): Usually reserved for the mother's side (maternal relatives).
• Day 3 (Teacher’s Tet): Traditionally reserved for visiting teachers and friends.

However, you can give and receive Lucky Money until the 10th day of the first lunar month, or whenever you meet someone for the first time in the New Year.

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6. Essential Etiquette For Tourists Giving Lucky Money

Since this is a cultural ritual, there are strict rules to follow. Ignoring them can be seen as rude or unlucky. Vietpower Travel recommends following these guidelines to impress the locals in 2026.

6.1. How To Prepare The Lucky Money

• Always Use New Banknotes: This is the most important rule. Weeks before Tet, Vietnamese people queue at banks to exchange old money for crisp, new bills. Old, torn, or wrinkled money implies a "ragged" and difficult year. Giving old money is considered disrespectful.
• The Lucky 2 USD Bill: In Vietnam, the 2 USD bill is considered a rare and extremely lucky charm. If you have them, put them inside the envelope. Locals will treasure this gift.

• Avoid The Number 4: Never give an amount involving the number 4 (like 40,000 or 400,000 VND). In Vietnamese, "four" sounds like "death". It is a bad omen.
• Favor Lucky Numbers: Numbers like 6 (wealth), 8 (prosperity), or 9 (eternity) are perfect. For example, 68,000 VND is a very lucky number.

6.2. How To Receive Lucky Money Politely

• Use Both Hands: When someone hands you an envelope, always accept it with two hands. This simple gesture shows deep respect.
• Do Not Open Immediately: This is a golden rule. Never, ever open the envelope and count the money in front of the giver. This is considered the height of rudeness and greed. Wait until you are in private.
• Offer A Return Wish: Smile and say "Chuc Mung Nam Moi" (Happy New Year) or "An Khang Thinh Vuong" (Security, Good Health, and Prosperity).

7. What Does Lucky Money Symbolize In Modern Vietnam?

In a rapidly modernizing society, what does lucky money symbolize today? As we step into 2026, has the meaning changed?

7.1. A Bond Of Love In A Busy World

Despite the economic changes, the core meaning remains a bond of love. In a busy modern world, Tet is often the only time families reunite. The red envelope serves as the "glue" that connects generations. It bridges the gap between the old and the young, facilitating conversation and connection.

For children, the money is often saved in "piggy banks" (often shaped like the zodiac animal of the year) to buy books, toys, or school supplies. It teaches them the first lessons about saving and financial management.

7.2. The Rise Of Digital Lucky Money

We have noticed a significant trend continuing into 2026: Digital Lucky Money. With the rise of smartphones, young people often use e-wallets like MoMo, ZaloPay, or banking apps to send "E-Lì Xì". This is especially useful for friends and relatives who live far apart and cannot meet in person.

The apps allow users to send money along with cute digital animations and greetings. While this is convenient and fun, the traditional paper red envelopes still hold the warmest feeling and remain the preferred method for elders.

Conclusion

Lucky Money is more than just a holiday bonus or a cultural curiosity. It is a beautiful lesson about generosity, gratitude, and hope. It teaches us to cherish our loved ones, respect our elders, and always hope for a bright future.

This year, if you are in Vietnam for Tet 2026, why not prepare some red envelopes yourself? Go to a local market, buy some beautiful packets, and put some new bills inside. Sharing the joy with the locals will be the highlight of your journey with Vietpower Travel.

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