As Chinese New Year 2020 descends upon us, the Christmas decorations in the shopping malls quickly make way for Chinese New Year. Chinese New Year is a time of festivities, where families and friends gather for meals and card games. One of the biggest symbols that cannot be left out in Chinese New Year 2020 is the red packet, or ang bao.
Ang baos are typically handed out by married adults to the younger, unwed relatives (siblings, cousins, nieces and nephews etc). There is an exception to this rule, though. The Chinese give ang bao to their parents and in-laws, as a sign of filial piety and respect. The significance of receiving an ang bao is the good luck and prosperity symbolised by the colour red. Today, the colour of the ang bao has evolved to not only red, but other vibrant colours such as gold, pink or yellow.
Although the significance is in the red packet, including money is a practical way to bless our loved ones with a token to spend on themselves. Is there then a minimum, or socially acceptable amount to prepare for ang baos? The general rule of thumb is to pack even numbers and avoid odd numbers as well as the number 4, as 4 sounds like the word “die” in Chinese.
The highest amounts are traditionally reserved for your immediate family members and the amounts gradually decrease according to relationship.
Chinese New Year Ang Bao Rates 2020
The Chinese fancy the number 8, as it sounds like “prosper” in Chinese. Therefore, our Chinese New Year Ang Bao Rates 2020 end with 8. You can choose to pack even amounts for convenience.
Depending on how many relatives and friends you have, the total sum could come as a shock if you are preparing ang bao for the first time during Chinese New Year 2020.
You can adjust the amount according to your budget as the focus of Chinese New Year is not on the money in the ang bao, but the meaningful conversations and bonding that takes place during the celebrations.
Have a happy and prosperous Chinese New Year!
Read also: Chinese New Year Traditions You Need To Know
