5 Chinese New Year Gift-Giving Etiquette Rules

Chinese New Year, also known as the Lunar New Year, is a celebration that marks the beginning of the new year on the traditional lunisolar Chinese calendar. It’s an annual 15-day festival that includes celebrations with family and friends. Each day is filled with activities like decorations, dragon dances and lion parades. Chinese New Year is celebrated in countries with significant Chinese populations, including Singapore. 

One of the main aspects of this celebration is to gift your loved ones without thoughtful presents. However, there are a few rules to follow to ensure proper etiquette. To make sure your Chinese New Year gift-giving goes without a hitch, here are five unspoken etiquette rules to keep in mind when shopping for presents.

1. Colour of the Gift

In Chinese culture, the colour of a gift is significant when giving a present during Chinese New Year. Red is traditionally seen as a symbol of luck and joy and will bring good fortune to the recipient. Yellow and gold are also considered lucky colours that signify prosperity. Black should be avoided as this colour is associated with bad luck, misfortune, and death. Also, avoid white as it represents sorrow or mourning.

[Mixed Rose Bouquet] – Your Mine

For Chinese New Year celebrations in Singapore, BC Florist has a range of flower bouquets to help you find the perfect gift for your loved ones. From gorgeous tulips and traditional red rose bouquets to lovely carnations and vibrant sunflower bouquets, our floral arrangements are the perfect way to send your best wishes for a prosperous and joyous Chinese New Year.

2. Number Symbolism in Chinese Culture

Every number has a deep symbolic meaning in Chinese culture. Some numbers are thought to convey messages of good luck and fortune, while others are associated with bad luck. Hence, while giving gifts during Chinese New Year celebrations, the monetary amount or the number of gifts you are giving should be considered carefully. For example, the number 8 is believed to bring wealth and success, thus, giving gifts in multiples of 8 is an expression of wishing someone good fortune and blessings. Presenting gifts in multiples of 9 is a sign of wishing someone long life, as this number is symbolic of longevity and eternity. On the other hand, the number 4 should also be avoided since it represents death.

3. Use Two Hands for Giving and Receiving Gifts

Gift-giving during Chinese New Year is a time-honoured tradition that symbolises mutual respect and appreciation between the giver and receiver. It is customary to use both hands when giving or receiving a gift as it is considered polite, honouring the recipient or the giver, and expressing care for them. Using both hands to give and receive a gift is also symbolic of unity, as it brings both hands together in the exchange.

4. Give Crisp and New Money

During Chinese New Year gift-giving, it is considered polite and respectful to give money in a crisp and new condition. Giving out stained or crinkled notes can be seen as a sign of disrespect, as it implies that you are giving away something that has been used. Giving crisp and new notes is also a symbol of prosperity and luck for the recipient, making it an even more important gesture during this festive time of year. Also, make sure that the money is well-presented in festive envelopes or wallets. 

[Money Reveal Box] – with 18 inch Orbz Balloon

At BC Florist, we make Chinese New Year gifting easier than ever with our Money Reveal Boxes. These gift boxes are the perfect way to up the ante when gifting money during the holiday season. The beauty of our money reveal box lies in its element of surprise. As your recipient unties the ribbon, watch their reaction as they see all the cash flying up. Make it even more special by customising messages on the balloon to make this gift that much more meaningful for both you and them. 

5. Always Gift the Oldest First

Traditionally, the oldest member of a family is always given their gifts first during Chinese New Year gift-giving. This practice goes back to ancient times, when respect for elders was a core value in Chinese culture. Gifting the oldest first shows that they are held in high esteem and are valued by their family. This practice is still observed today and is a way for families to show their respect and appreciation for the older generations. 

Spread Prosperity This Chinese New Year with BC Florist

Chinese New Year is a joyous celebration of the Lunar new year, and a time to show your loved ones how much you care. But this year, why not make it extra special with BC Florist’s gift collection? 

We offer a wide selection of flower bouquets, flower balloon arrangements and surprise money boxes that are sure to bring joy and luck to your loved ones during this special time of year. Order your flowers online and avail free same-day delivery all across Singapore. For more information related to our products and delivery process, refer to our FAQ page or contact us today.