Red Egg and Ginger Party Traditions

In ancient China the birth of a boy was celebrated one month after his birth when he was considered likely to survive. Concluding the new mother and baby's confinement, a Red Egg and Ginger Party was held to introduce him to family and friends. Rich with traditions, this special occasion has evolved to a special event for both baby boys and girls. The eagerly-awaited baby’s name was announced at the ancient parties by the grandparents and expressed the family’s aspirations and intentions for the child.

The new mother, considered to be in a weakened state, spent the month after giving birth confined at home to protect herself and the baby. Ginger is included significantly in the new mother’s diet during her “sitting” month to “warm” her after being weak from child birth. Currently, Red Egg and Ginger parties are thrown anytime between one and three months old and is hosted by the parents or grandparents, often at a restaurant.The event always includes a delicious meal, which often is accompanied by entertainment or musicians.

Favors of hard-boiled eggs, dyed red, are given to each guest: red for happiness, eggs for new life and pickled ginger root to represent a family’s long, deep roots. For even greater luck, RED pickled ginger is given out. Guest are given an even number of eggs for a baby boy, or an odd number of eggs for a baby girl.

Guests normally bring gifts to a Red Egg and Ginger party. Llucky money, folded neatly into small red envelopes are the most popular gift. Close family will often give jewelry to baby girls, but money is also appropriate. The lucky money envelopes are often tucked into baby’s clothing or pinned on. In China, tigers are thought to have special powers for protecting childre. Thus, many babies are given tiger hats, shoes and bibs so that the tiger can watch over and protect them.