Li Xi

Tet celebrations are in full effect in Vietnam. The city is decorated to the fullest, traditional dragon dances are happening around every corner, and the practice of Li Xi is on. Li Xi (lucky money) is the practice of giving money, usually to children, in small red envelopes. According to traditional beliefs, the money in red envelops, bears a symbolic meaning while the red color of the envelope symbolizes good luck and is supposed to ward off evil spirits. Giving li xi during the lunar New Year has been considered fortunate for both the givers and receivers. Those who give will also invite the flow of money into their house during the entire year.

For the most part, foriengers are excluded from the Li Xi tradition. They are neither expected to give money away nor should not expect to receive any either. That is ... unless you know the right place to go. As we were out to dinner with some friends recently, suddenly all of the lights in the place went out. This blackout was quickly followed by the a Vietnamese song over the sound system and sparklers being lit. While the song blasted and the sparklers blazed, the restaurant staff went around and passed out Li Xi to everyone there. It was fun to be included in the very special Vietnamese tradition and equally as fun to have the restaurant actually pay us to dine there. Happy New Year to us!!!

Our red envelopes holding lucky money. We opted to save and not spend.