On Chinese New Year, it is tradition to for older family members, parents and grandparents, to give red envelopes or 红包 (hóngbāo) filled with money to the kids.
It is important that these envelopes are not any ordinary envelopes. The red color symbolizes good luck and prosperity for the new year.
Before receiving the red envelope, make sure stick out both hands and say "恭喜发财!" (Gōngxı̌fācái) to your elder, which means "Wishing you happiness and fortune!". A more traditional way of receiving red envelope is is to kowtow or 磕头 (gē tóu) three times to show respect.
Find this activity under Chinese Learners Lesson 2: Chinese New Year!
