Gift-giving during Lunar New Year
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January 25th, 2024
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Gift-giving during Lunar New Year holds deep cultural and symbolic importance. It is a gesture of goodwill, fostering positive relationships and wishing prosperity for the recipient.
In many Asian cultures, Lunar New Year gifts carry cultural significance, representing good fortune, blessings, and the strengthening of bonds among family and friends. The act of giving reflects values of generosity and community spirit.
Traditional Lunar New Year Gifts
Red Packets (Hongbao)
Red Packets, or Hongbao, are envelopes filled with money, symbolising good luck and prosperity. Customarily given by elders to younger family members, they represent blessings for a prosperous year ahead.
In the digital age, traditional Red Packets have evolved into virtual forms, exchanged through digital platforms. While the essence remains, modern variations include creative designs and personalised messages (just like Sous Chef’s gift card!) adapting to contemporary gifting practices.
Oranges and Tangerines
Oranges and tangerines are considered auspicious gifts during Lunar New Year, symbolising good fortune and prosperity. The round shape and vibrant colour add to the positive symbolism.
Beyond their symbolic meaning, the presentation of oranges and tangerines in decorative arrangements or boxes enhances the gift's appeal. Creative packaging and arrangements contribute to the festive atmosphere and make these fruits delightful offerings.
Tea sets
Gifting tea sets during Lunar New Year represents the wish for harmony and respect within relationships. It symbolises the importance of fostering good connections and maintaining peace.
Tea sets often include a variety of popular teas, such as green tea, oolong, or jasmine tea. These selections cater to diverse tastes and preferences, making tea sets a thoughtful and versatile Lunar New Year gift.
Authentic Chinese Cooking Set
This authentic Chinese cooking set includes Every Grain of Rice - Fuchsia Dunlop's incredible guide to Chinese home cooking. There are stunning photographs of every dish, and a comprehensive introduction to all the ingredients and cookware you will need to transform the way you eat.
The ingredients included in this set will make up your basic store-cupboard to get started with the book. Once you have all the basic ingredients, with some help from Every Grain of Rice, even the barest fridge could create a meal fit for a king, which is a great gift for a foodie this 2024’s lunar new year!
Chinese drinks
Chinese drinks, including Shaoxing wine, Baijiu, and popular boba beverages, hold symbolic significance in Lunar New Year celebrations. Shaoxing wine represents longevity, Baijiu symbolises celebration, and boba drinks add a modern twist, representing sweetness and joy.
Offering these Chinese drinks during Lunar New Year reflects cultural richness and the blending of traditional and contemporary elements. It adds a delightful touch to festivities, embodying good wishes for a harmonious and prosperous year ahead.
