The Chinese New Year is a time for tradition, togetherness, and finding the perfect gift. But what captures the spirit of this special celebration? (Spoiler: It’s not just about what’s inside the box.)

For centuries, this holiday has been more than a reason to party—it’s a chance to wish for prosperity, share blessings, and strengthen the bonds that matter most. 

Whether it’s a token of good fortune or a wish for good health, the right gesture can light up someone’s celebration.

We’ve rounded up gift ideas that balance tradition with a modern twist for 2025.

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Key takeaways

• Chinese New Year gifts aren’t just about the item itself. They’re about showing gratitude, spreading good fortune, and strengthening your bonds with loved ones. It’s a timeless tradition that makes everyone feel appreciated.
• Some of the Chinese New Year gift ideas include Red envelopes(Hongbao), mandarin oranges or tangerines, jade jewelry, tea sets, gourmet treats, electronics, subscription boxes, personalized gifts, traditional gifts, traditional decorations, zodiac-themed gifts, festive clothing, gift hampers and fine wines or Baijiu.

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Traditional Chinese New Year Gift Ideas

Here are some thoughtful and traditional gifts with their meanings:

1. Red envelopes (Hongbao)

Red envelopes filled with money are among the most iconic Chinese New Year gifts. The red color symbolizes luck and warding off evil, while the money inside represents blessings for prosperity and success. It’s not about the amount—though a crisp bill is always appreciated—it’s about the act of giving. 

Traditionally, elders give hongbao to younger family members, but they’re also exchanged between friends and colleagues to spread good fortune. 

💡Tip: Cash amounts with even numbers are preferred. Avoid the number four, which is considered unlucky.

2. Mandarin oranges or tangerines

These bright, cheery fruits are staples during New Year celebrations, and they are often given in pairs for extra luck. 

In Chinese, the word for mandarin orange (桔, jú) sounds similar to the word for “luck” (吉, jí), while tangerines, with their golden hue, symbolize wealth and abundance. 

A gift of these fruits is simple yet packed with meaning, making them perfect for sharing prosperity with friends, family, or neighbors.

3. Jade jewelry

Jade has been cherished in Chinese culture for centuries and is often called the “stone of heaven.” Gifting jade jewelry—such as bracelets, pendants, or rings—represents wishes for health, safety, and protection. 

Many believe jade can ward off negative energy and bring harmony to the wearer. It’s a timeless, elegant, and significant gift that’s especially fitting for loved ones you want to safeguard and cherish.

4. Tea sets (premium tea is preferable)

Tea is special in Chinese culture, symbolizing respect, tradition, and mindfulness. 

When choosing tea, consider popular varieties like oolong, pu’erh, or jasmine for their premium quality and cultural roots. Pairing the tea with a traditional set adds an extra touch of elegance and respect to your gift.

Modern Lunar New Year gifts

While traditional gifts hold deep cultural meaning, modern Lunar New Year gifts have also gained popularity.  Here’s a look at some contemporary gifts that are sure to impress and spread festive cheer:

1. Luxury chocolates or gourmet treats

Who doesn’t love a little indulgence during a celebration? Luxury chocolates or gourmet treats are a sweet way to share the festive spirit, especially during family reunions. 

Whether a box of artisanal chocolates or an elegant tin of cookies, these gifts are delicious and a little indulgent—just as Lunar New Year celebrations should feel!

2. Electronics or gadgets

Gadgets are always a hit with the younger generation. Electronics make for highly practical and appreciated gifts, Whether the latest headphones, a smart speaker, or a portable charger. 

3. Subscription boxes

If you want to gift something that keeps giving, subscription boxes are a fantastic option.  They’re perfect for anyone who enjoys trying new things or receiving a little joy throughout the year. 

Subscription boxes offer flexibility and personalization, making them a thoughtful and modern gift.

4. Personalized gifts

Custom mugs, zodiac-themed calendars, or framed family photos add a personal touch that feels thoughtful and unique. A personalized gift shows you’ve put extra effort into making the present meaningful. 

Gifts that celebrate culture and decor

Gifts celebrating culture and decor bring the holiday spirit to life by adorning spaces with symbolic pieces or wearing items that embrace tradition. 

Here are some great ideas to gift this season:

1. Traditional decorations

Traditional decorations are a beautiful way to infuse your home with the energy of Chinese New Year. Lanterns, red couplets, and paper cuttings are iconic holiday symbols. These timeless decorations bring warmth and hope, making them a perfect gift to help others celebrate in style.

2. Zodiac-themed items

Each Chinese New Year is associated with one of the 12 zodiac animals, and 2025 will be the Year of the Snake. Whether it’s a delicate snake pendant, an elegant painting of a snake in the Chinese style, or a crafted figurine, such gifts serve as decorative and symbolic pieces.

3. Festive clothing

Clothing gifts that feature auspicious colors and designs are another meaningful way to celebrate the holiday. They make great gifts for anyone who loves the beauty of traditional Chinese clothing but may not always have the occasion to wear full outfits. Whether a full dress or a simple accessory, these items will spread cheer and add a touch of cultural flair.

Food & beverage gifts for the Lunar New Year

Chinese New Year, or the Lunar New Year, is a time for family gatherings, joyous celebrations, and meaningful gift exchanges. 

Here are some great ideas for this festive season:

1. Gift hampers

Curated gift baskets are a classic and well-received option during Chinese New Year. Fill them with popular festive snacks and symbolic treats to delight recipients.

Customize your hamper with festive packaging featuring red and gold, the traditional colors of luck and wealth.

2. Fine wines or Baijiu

High-quality beverages are another meaningful and practical gift, particularly for celebratory toasts and dinner parties.

Opt for red wines, as red is an auspicious color in Chinese culture. Pair them with a traditional feast or include them in a luxurious gift set.

💡Tip: Including a red envelope (hongbao) with a small monetary gift can further enhance the gesture, symbolizing luck and abundance for the year ahead.

What’s the importance of gift-giving during the Chinese New Year?

Gift-giving during Chinese New Year isn’t just about exchanging items—it’s a way to share blessings, build stronger connections, and show appreciation. 

It’s one of those traditions that feels timeless because of the warmth and goodwill it brings. When families and friends come together to celebrate, giving a thoughtful gift can speak volumes, strengthening bonds and spreading good vibes.

Choosing Gifts for Lunar New Year is Seen as Sharing Blessings and Showing Gratitude

At its heart, gift-giving is all about generosity and kindness. It’s a way to share your good fortune and wish the people in your life health, happiness, and success in the coming year. 

Plus, it’s a perfect excuse to say “thank you” to loved ones, friends, or that one coworker who always has your back. A thoughtful gift goes a long way in showing you care.

Red is more than just a pretty color—it’s a superpower in Chinese culture. 

Associated with luck, joy, and keeping bad vibes at bay, red is everywhere during the New Year, especially on gifts. 

Whether it’s wrapping paper or the iconic red envelopes (hongbao), adding that pop of red gives your gift an extra dose of good fortune. And yes, presentation matters! A neatly wrapped gift (with that lucky red touch) shows you’ve put in the effort—and isn’t that what good gifting is all about?

How to save money on Chinese New Year gifts

1. Use gift cards to stretch your budget

Gift cards are a great way to stretch your gifting budget. Paxful is one of the best places to get great gift cards. 

Paxful allows users to trade unused gift cards for Bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies, which can be used to shop, save, or invest. Additionally, you can purchase discounted gift cards from major retailers, helping you stretch your budget further.

Click here to register and explore Paxful’s gift card options. 

💡Tip: Instead of letting unused gift cards go to waste, trade them on Paxful and use your earnings to buy thoughtful gifts for your loved ones!

2. Plan for seasonal sales

Seasonal sales are the perfect opportunity to save on everything from gifts to essentials.

Here’s how to make the most of seasonal sales:

1. Many retailers offer early discounts to entice shoppers before the holiday rush. Take advantage of these deals to avoid last-minute shopping stress and higher prices.
2. After the holidays, stores offer discounts on seasonal items like decorations, gift sets, and clothing to clear inventory. Stock up for next year or grab items at a fraction of their original price.
3. Platforms like Rakuten, Honey, or Ibotta allow you to earn a percentage of your purchase back in cash or rewards when you shop through their networks.
4. Apps like RetailMeNot, Coupons.com, or Honey automatically find and apply promo codes for additional discounts at checkout.

💡Tip: Keep a calendar of major sales events, such as Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and New Year’s sales, and prepare a shopping list to focus on your needs.

Chinese New Year gift  giving etiquette

Do’s

• Always use both hands to present a gift and accompany it with warm wishes for the recipient’s health and prosperity.
• Prepare gifts in even numbers, like two bottles of wine or two cartons of cigarettes.
• Pay close attention to the color of the gift and the wrapping paper or bag in which it is delivered.
• The ideal moment to give someone a gift is upon arrival at one’s house or when you meet each other.
• When giving gifts, use auspicious phrases like “Gong Xi Fa Cai” (I wish you wealth and prosperity). 

Don’t’s

• Don’t open gifts in front of the giver.
• Don’t give gifts with unlucky numbers. 
• Avoid unlucky items such as white flowers (associated with funerals), clocks (symbolizing time running out), or sharp objects (signifying cutting ties).

Chinese New Year gifts 2025 to skip 

While thoughtful gestures go a long way, sure gifts can unintentionally send the wrong message. 

Here’s what to avoid:

• Clocks: These might seem practical gifts, but they’re a big no-no. The phrase “giving a clock” sounds like “attending someone’s end” in Chinese. Yep, awkward.
• Sharp objects: Think knives or scissors—anything that could symbolize “cutting” relationships. Not the message you want to send.
• Shoes: Believe it or not, gifting shoes can be seen as inviting bad luck. The word for shoes (鞋, xié) sounds like “evil” in Chinese, so it’s best to steer clear.

Paying attention to these little details ensures your gift is well-received—and keeps you on the right side of cultural traditions.