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c u l t u r e
Symbolic Delicacies
for Good Luck
Togetherness Treats
“The Tray of Togetherness” is candy tray that has eight compartments which has
symbolic meaning to insure a prosperous New Year. During the Lunar New Year
it is customary that each home has a “Tray of Togetherness” to share with their
family and friends. It is to be eaten within the two week period of the Lunar New
Year celebration. It is also can be given as a gift during the Lunar New Year.
Photo by Collin Kelly
Here are the items in the tray and their meanings:
• Red watermelon seeds: Joy, happiness, and truth
• Longan: Many sons
• Candy Melon: Growth and health
• Kumquat: Gold and prosperity
• Lychee nuts: Strong family ties
• Peanuts: Longevity
• Lotus seeds: Fertility
• Fresh or dried coconut: Friendship and unity
Lai-See Envelopes (also called Hong-Bao) containing money is
typically given to children and young adults at New Year’s time.
The traditionally red envelopes are often decorated with gold
Chinese characters like happiness and wealth.
When giving someone a red envelope, use both hands to
present the red envelope to the recipient. Giving and receiving
red envelopes, gifts, and even business cards is a solemn act.
Therefore, red envelopes, gifts and name cards are always
presented with both hands and also received with both hands.
The amount of money contained in the envelope usually ends
with an even digit, and the amount of money is usually a single
note to avoid heavy coins and to make it difficult to judge the
amount inside before opening. It is traditional to put
brand new notes inside red envelopes
and also to avoid opening
the envelopes in
front of the relatives
out of courtesy.
An assortment of fruits is commonly displayed in homes and shops.
Tangerines symbolize good tidings, oranges symbolize wealth, and
pomelos symbolize abundance and prosperity. Tangerines, oranges and
pomelos are a “must” gift item when visiting family or friends during
the New Year celebration.
18 | J a n u a r y / F e b r u a r y 2 0 1 3
Yellow Magazine