10 Free Chinese New Year Red Envelope Printables 2025

Chinese New Year red envelopes, or hongbao, are traditional gifts filled with money given during the Lunar New Year. We have prepared 10 free printable designs for you to download and use, including classic, modern, and whimsical styles featuring dragons, snakes, and festive symbols.

The Tradition of Chinese New Year Red Envelopes

Red envelopes, known as hongbao in Mandarin or lai see in Cantonese, play a significant role in Chinese New Year celebrations. These small packets, typically red in color, contain money and are given as gifts to family members, friends, and colleagues. The tradition dates back over 2,000 years and symbolizes good luck, prosperity, and happiness for the recipient in the coming year.

The Significance of Red

The color red holds great importance in Chinese culture, especially during the New Year festivities. Red symbolizes good fortune, happiness, and prosperity. It is believed to ward off evil spirits and bring positive energy. The use of red envelopes stems from an ancient legend involving a demon named Nian, who was said to be frightened away by the color red and loud noises.

Who Gives and Receives Red Envelopes?

Traditionally, married couples and older family members give red envelopes to unmarried individuals, children, and younger relatives. However, the custom has evolved, and now people exchange red envelopes among friends, colleagues, and even digitally through mobile payment apps.

The Art of Giving

When giving red envelopes, there are several customs to observe:

1. Use new, crisp bills
2. Avoid amounts containing the number 4, as it sounds similar to the word for “death” in Chinese
3. Prefer even numbers, especially 8, which is considered lucky
4. Present the envelope with both hands as a sign of respect
5. Recipients should accept with both hands and not open the envelope immediately in front of the giver

10 Free Printable Chinese New Year Red Envelope Designs

To help you celebrate the Year of the Dragon in 2025, we’ve created 10 unique red envelope designs for you to download and print. Each design incorporates traditional and modern elements, making them suitable for various recipients and preferences.

1. Classic Red Envelope with Ornate Dragon

This design features an intricate dragon motif, symbolizing power, strength, and good fortune. The ornate pattern adds a touch of elegance, making it perfect for more formal gift-giving occasions.

2. Elegant Red Envelope with Gold Snake

Although 2025 is the Year of the Dragon, this envelope showcases a graceful gold snake design. The snake is associated with wisdom and intuition in Chinese zodiac, making this envelope suitable for those born in the Year of the Snake or anyone who appreciates its symbolism.

3. Festive Red Envelope with Kids & Snake

This playful design combines cute cartoon children with a friendly snake, creating a joyful atmosphere. It’s ideal for giving to younger family members or friends with children.

4. Modern Red Envelope with Gold Snake

For those who prefer a more contemporary look, this envelope features a stylized gold snake on a sleek red background. The minimalist design appeals to modern sensibilities while maintaining traditional symbolism.

5. Red Envelope with Blossoming 2025

Celebrating the new year, this envelope incorporates the numbers 2025 with blossoming flowers. The design symbolizes growth and new beginnings, making it suitable for anyone looking forward to a prosperous year ahead.

6. Red Envelope with Dragons and Blossoms

This design combines the powerful dragon motif with delicate blossoms, representing strength and beauty. The balance of these elements makes it versatile for various recipients.

7. Red Envelope with Fanfare & Flipped Text

Adding a touch of whimsy, this envelope features upside-down text, which is a play on the Chinese word for “arrival” or “to come.” The fanfare elements create a festive atmosphere, perfect for New Year celebrations.

8. Red Envelope with Kids, Snake & Lanterns

Another child-friendly design, this envelope showcases children, a snake, and traditional lanterns. It captures the joy and excitement of Chinese New Year festivities, making it ideal for younger recipients.

9. Red Envelope with Lanterns and Snake

This elegant design combines graceful lanterns with a stylized snake. The lanterns symbolize hope and good fortune, while the snake adds an element of wisdom and intuition to the overall composition.

10. Whimsical Red Envelope with Cartoon Snake

For a fun and lighthearted option, this envelope features a cute cartoon snake. Its playful design is perfect for children or those who appreciate a more casual and humorous approach to traditional customs.

Chinese New Year Cards

How to Use the Printable Red Envelopes

To make the most of these free printable designs, follow these steps:

1. Download the PDF file containing all 10 designs.
2. Print the designs on red paper or cardstock for the best results. If you don’t have red paper, you can print on white paper and color the envelopes red.
3. Cut out the envelope templates along the solid lines.
4. Fold along the dotted lines to create the envelope shape.
5. Use glue or double-sided tape to secure the flaps and create your envelope.
6. Insert your monetary gift and seal the envelope.

Remember to handle the envelopes with care, as they represent your good wishes for the recipient.

The Importance of Red Envelopes in Chinese Culture

Red envelopes are more than just monetary gifts; they carry deep cultural significance and help strengthen relationships within families and communities. Here are some key aspects of their importance:

Symbolism of Luck and Prosperity

The act of giving red envelopes is believed to bestow good fortune and ward off evil spirits. The red color and the money inside symbolize prosperity and positive energy for the coming year.

Reinforcing Family Bonds

The tradition of older family members giving red envelopes to younger ones helps reinforce family hierarchies and respect for elders. It’s a way for older generations to show care and support for the younger ones.

Teaching Financial Responsibility

For children, receiving red envelopes can be an early lesson in managing money. Parents often encourage kids to save a portion of their hongbao money, teaching them about financial responsibility from a young age.

Expressing Gratitude and Respect

In professional settings, employers may give red envelopes to employees as a form of bonus or gratitude for their hard work. This gesture helps maintain good relationships and shows appreciation.

Spreading Joy and Goodwill

The exchange of red envelopes creates a festive atmosphere and spreads joy during the New Year celebrations. It’s a tangible way of sharing good wishes and positive energy with friends and loved ones.

Modern Adaptations of the Red Envelope Tradition

While the core concept of giving red envelopes remains the same, the tradition has evolved with changing times and technologies:

Digital Red Envelopes

With the rise of mobile payment platforms, digital red envelopes have become increasingly popular. Apps like WeChat and Alipay allow users to send virtual hongbao to friends and family, often incorporating games or other interactive elements.

Eco-Friendly Options

As environmental awareness grows, some people opt for reusable fabric envelopes or digital alternatives to reduce paper waste. These options maintain the spirit of the tradition while being more sustainable.

Corporate Branding

Many companies now create custom-designed red envelopes featuring their logos or brand elements. These are used for employee bonuses or as promotional items for clients and customers during the New Year season.

Global Adoption

As Chinese communities spread globally, the tradition of giving red envelopes has been adopted and adapted in various countries. Some non-Chinese businesses and individuals have also embraced the custom, especially in areas with significant Chinese populations.

Tips for Giving and Receiving Red Envelopes

To navigate the custom of red envelope exchanges with grace, keep these tips in mind:

For Givers:

1. Always use new, crisp bills.
2. Avoid amounts with the number 4.
3. Consider the recipient’s age and your relationship when deciding on the amount.
4. Present the envelope with both hands and a smile.
5. If giving to children, you might want to include a small note of encouragement along with the money.

For Recipients:

1. Accept the envelope with both hands and express gratitude.
2. Don’t open the envelope in front of the giver.
3. If you’re a child, thank the giver and wish them good fortune for the New Year.
4. Consider saving a portion of the money you receive.
5. Remember to reciprocate the gesture when appropriate, such as when you get married or start earning your own income.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much money should I put in a red envelope?

The amount varies depending on your relationship with the recipient and your financial situation. For children, amounts can range from 50 to 500 yuan (or equivalent). For close family members or employees, it could be more. The key is to give what you can afford while showing your care and respect.

Can I give red envelopes to my boss or older relatives?

Traditionally, red envelopes are given by older or married individuals to younger or unmarried ones. However, you can give red envelopes to your boss or older relatives as a sign of respect, especially if they have helped you significantly. In these cases, the gesture is more important than the amount.

Is it okay to give red envelopes with chocolate coins instead of real money?

While chocolate coins can be a fun addition, they should not replace real money in red envelopes. The tradition is based on giving actual currency. You could include chocolate coins as an extra treat, but make sure to include real money as well.

What if I can’t afford to give red envelopes?

If you’re facing financial difficulties, it’s okay to explain your situation to close family and friends. You could give smaller amounts or even handmade gifts with a heartfelt note. Remember, the spirit of the tradition is about sharing good wishes, not just money.

Can I reuse red envelopes I’ve received?

It’s generally not recommended to reuse red envelopes, as they may have the giver’s name or be associated with the previous year’s luck. However, if you’re environmentally conscious, you could repurpose them for crafts or use them to organize small items at home.