A Guide to Red Packet Etiquette for Lion Dances in Singapore During Chinese New Year

The lion dance is a dazzling and cherished tradition during Chinese New Year, representing the driving away of evil spirits and inviting good fortune. A key part of this custom is offering red packets or "hongbao" to the lion dancers, but how much should you give? Let's dive into the cultural significance and find the perfect amount for this auspicious gesture.

Why Give Red Packets During Lion Dances?

Red packets symbolize luck, prosperity, and blessings. During a lion dance, offering a red envelope to the lion is a gesture of gratitude and respect for the performers who are believed to spread good fortune through their energetic routines. The red colour of the packet also wards off bad luck and enhances the festive spirit.

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Auspicious Amounts to Give

In Chinese culture, certain numbers are considered lucky due to their pronunciations and meanings. Choosing these numbers for red packets adds extra significance to your gesture:

• 8: The Number of Prosperity
  The number 8 is highly favoured because it sounds like the Chinese word for "wealth" or "prosperity." Popular amounts include:
  • $8: Perfect for smaller gestures.
  • $18, $28, $88: Larger amounts reflecting greater blessings.
• 6: The Number of Smoothness
  The pronunciation of 6 resembles the word for "flow," symbolising a smooth and successful journey ahead. Common amounts include:
  • $6: A simple, auspicious choice.
  • $16, $66: Ideal for wishing smooth progress.

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Amounts You Should Avoid

While some numbers bring good fortune, others are avoided due to negative associations:

• 4: The Number to Skip
  The number 4 is considered unlucky because it sounds like the word for "death" in Chinese. Avoid amounts like:
  • $4, $14, $44.
• Odd Numbers
  Odd numbers are often associated with funerals, making even numbers the preferred choice for festive occasions.

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But Really.. How Much Should You Give?

The exact amount depends on several factors:

1. Your Relationship with the Performers
   • For friends or family performing the lion dance, you might opt for a higher amount like $28 or $88 to show appreciation.
   • For public performances, standard amounts like $8 or $18 are appropriate.
2. Personal Budget
   • Give within your means. The thought and symbolism matter more than the actual sum.
3. Regional Customs
   • Different communities may have their own traditions. If unsure, consult someone familiar with the local customs.

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Making It Extra Fun

You can add a playful twist to the tradition by incorporating creative touches:

• Lettuce and Wealth
  Attach the red packet to a head of lettuce. The word for lettuce in Chinese sounds like "wealth," and the lion "eating" the lettuce symbolises the sharing of fortune.
• Choreographed Feeding
  Some performances encourage givers to "tease" the lion by holding the red envelope just out of reach before offering it. This interaction adds energy and laughter to the event.

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Respecting the Tradition

When giving red packets, ensure they are crisp and new. Wrinkled or old bills can be seen as disrespectful. Present the packet with both hands as a sign of reverence and appreciation.

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Our Final Thoughts

Offering a red packet during a lion dance is more than a festive gesture—it’s a meaningful way to express your hopes for prosperity, smooth progress, and shared joy. By choosing auspicious amounts like $8, $18, or $28 and presenting them thoughtfully, you honour the tradition and spread good fortune for the new year. Looking for a reputable Lion Dance Troupe for your Chinese New Year event, consider Lion Dance Singapore today!