Our Lunar New Year Gift Guide

Chinese New Year comes but once a year, so what better way to usher in the Lunar New Year than with unique Chinese New Year gifts that will capture the essence of this special celebration. From understanding the traditions and celebrations of Lunar New Year, to the dos and don’ts of Lunar New Year gift giving, consider this your ultimate Lunar New Year gift guide.

###### **What is Lunar New Year?** Despite its name, Chinese New Year is celebrated in many Asian countries, including South Korea, Vietnam, and Indonesia. Sometimes known as Spring Festival, it marks the end of winter and the beginning of the first of 24 lunar cycles. The festival is celebrated with meals and the exchanging of gifts – as each gift represents your wish for the recipient to have a year brimming with good fortune, health and happiness.

###### **Chinese New Year gift ideas for elders** When it comes to gifting your older relatives and friends, gifts that will bring them comfort or encourage good health are favourable. This could be a [scarf](https://www.fenwick.co.uk/women/accessories/scarves) to keep them warm during the winter months or perhaps a [tea](https://www.fenwick.co.uk/food-and-drink/all-pantry/tea) set rich in beneficial herbs and spices.

###### **Chinese New Year gift ideas for kids** The presents gifted to children during Chinese New Year should symbolise a fortunate future – one full of good luck and prosperity. Gifts which will benefit their education, such as [books](https://www.fenwick.co.uk/kids/toys/childrens-books) and [science and educational toys](https://www.fenwick.co.uk/kids/toys/action-figures-and-dolls) are welcome. The most popular [gift for children](https://www.fenwick.co.uk/gifts/gifts-by-recipient/gifts-for-kids) during Chinese New Year are red envelopes filled with money. Not only is red considered a lucky colour, but the money also symbolises wealth and prosperity in their future. Can’t gift a red envelope? Give one of our [Fenwick E-Gift Cards](https://www.fenwick.co.uk/home-and-tech/gift-card/fenwick-e-gift-card/9876543211.html).

###### **Chinese New Year gift ideas for everyone on your list** If you’re choosing a Chinese New Year gift for a friend or co-worker, [food and drink hampers](https://www.fenwick.co.uk/food-and-drink/all-hampers) are perfect choice. As well as [wines and spirits](https://www.fenwick.co.uk/food-and-drink/all-wines-and-spirits), or flavoured [chocolates and confectionary](https://www.fenwick.co.uk/food-and-drink/all-chocolate-and-confectionery).

###### **The dos and don’ts of gift giving** * If gifting money, it’s important to note that some numbers are considered lucky and unlucky. In China, lucky numbers are: 6, 9 and 8 – so **DO** gift money that incorporates one of these numbers. 3, 4 and 7 are unlucky, so avoid sending monetary values which include these. * **DON’T** gift a present that is largely black or white and avoid wrapping paper and envelopes in these colours also. Black and white are considered funeral colours in Chinese culture. Instead, **DO** opt for red and gold, as these symbolise good luck, wealth and prosperity. * When giving someone a gift, **DO** present the gift with both hands at the start of the celebration and to the oldest member of the family first, as a symbol of respect.

Happy Chinese New Year!