Chinese New Year Gift Ideas

Chinese New Year (Lunar New Year) 2027 begins on 6 February, starting the Year of the Goat. Gifts focus on luck, wealth and health.

Red and gold are lucky colours; some gifts are traditionally avoided.

Lucky gifts

• Red envelopes (hongbao)
• Mandarin oranges
• Fine tea
• A sweet box

Thoughtful

• A plant like lucky bamboo
• Red home decor
• Year of the Goat print or ornament
• A card

Avoid

• Clocks
• Sharp objects
• White or black wrapping
• Sets of four

Key things to remember

• Use red wrapping.
• Give with both hands.
• Use new notes in red envelopes.

Frequently asked questions

What should you not give for Chinese New Year?

Clocks, sharp objects and sets of four are traditionally avoided.

What is a good example of chinese New Year gift ideas?

"Red envelopes (hongbao)" is one of 12 examples on this page. Pick the one closest to the tone you want, then add a specific detail of your own - a shared memory, a date, a name - so it reads as yours rather than copied.

Can I copy these messages word for word?

Yes. Everything on this page is free to copy, print and read out - no permission or credit needed. Changing one detail so it fits the person is all we would suggest.

How long should a card message be?

One to three lines suits most cards. Write the message before the name so you can start again if it goes wrong, and if you run out of room, carry on inside the back cover rather than shrinking your handwriting.

Where to shop next

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