History of Chinese Full Moon Custom

Full moon or full month celebrations are celebrated by Chinese families whose baby reaches 1 month after birth. On the baby's full month, some families host a dinner to entertain friends and relatives. Red hard-boiled eggs will be distributed too.

An odd number of eggs will be distributed if it is a boy and even number of eggs if it is a girl. Friends and relatives usually give a red packet in return. They may also give presents like baby food, articles for daily use or jewellery.

The Chinese also practise the custom of shaving off the baby's hair on its full month. The baby's hair is wrapped up in a red cloth and sewn to the baby's pillow. It is believed that by doing this, the baby would not be timid or easily frightened.

Symbolic meaning of red eggs:-

• The egg symbolises a new journey in life
• Red symbolises celebration and good luck
• The oval shape symbolises harmony and unity