A fun and simple way to teach children about the Chinese New Year red envelope tradition is to let them make their own lucky red envelopes. In Chinese culture, red symbolizes good fortune and happiness. During Chinese New Year, it is common to give red envelopes filled with “lucky money” to family and friends as a way to wish them prosperity for the year ahead.
In the United States, Chinese New Year often falls close to Valentine’s Day, which makes red envelopes easy to find in many stores. If red envelopes aren’t available, you can color a white envelope with red markers, or fold a red sheet of paper to form an envelope. Another quick option is to fold a red piece of paper in half and secure the edges with staples, glue, or tape, leaving one side open so you can add the “lucky money.”
After decorating the envelopes, fill them with your choice of “lucky money.” Options include real currency, foil-wrapped gold chocolate coins, or plastic toy coins. We like using gold chocolate coins for the kids; they find them exciting and festive. Any of these choices work well to convey the idea of gifting good fortune.
Tip: Gold chocolate coins are often available in bulk candy bins at grocery stores, dollar stores, and at some specialty retailers. They can also be purchased online.
Here is an example of how traditional Chinese red envelopes can appear for inspiration:
Get creative with this easy Chinese New Year craft. You’ll only need red envelopes plus metallic gold pens or gel pens. For extra sparkle, add gold glitter and glue. Below is a concise list of suggested basic supplies to gather for making red envelopes with kids.
The essential supplies are: red envelopes (or red paper to make them), metallic gold gel pens or markers, black markers for drawing symbols, and materials to serve as “lucky money.”
Chinese New Year Red Envelopes Craft Supplies:
- Red envelopes or red paper to fold into envelopes
- Lucky money: real bills, gold chocolate coins, or toy gold coins
- Gold metallic gel pens or gold markers
- Black markers or brush pens for drawing symbols
- Gold foil alphabet stickers (optional)
- Gold glitter and glue (optional for extra sparkle)
Directions:
- Decorate the outside of each red envelope using gold pens, glitter, and/or stickers. Use a black marker or brush pen to draw Chinese symbols that represent good luck or other positive wishes.
- Place the chosen “lucky money” inside each envelope and seal it, leaving it ready to share with family or friends.
We looked up examples of Chinese New Year symbols and practiced drawing them on the envelopes with a black brush pen. Kids enjoyed adding stickers that spelled “Good Luck” in English and comparing how many letters that phrase uses versus the single Chinese character that conveys the same meaning. This is a simple way to combine craft time with a short cultural lesson.
Making red envelopes for Chinese New Year is an engaging activity that helps children learn about tradition while having fun. It’s a hands-on way to explore cultural practices and to celebrate together. If you enjoy making these crafts, consider pairing them with a family meal or other festive activities to enrich the experience and create lasting memories.