When a 100-day banquet invitation arrives, the question is rarely whether to attend — it is what to give, and how much is appropriate. Meanwhile the hosts are wondering: do we need red eggs? What return gift is tasteful? This guide starts with where the customs come from, then answers both sides — guests and hosts. For venue choice and the day's timeline, see our 100-day venue and timeline guide.
1. First, full-moon vs 100-day
| Full-moon banquet | 100-day banquet | |
|---|---|---|
| Timing | About one month after birth | Around day 100 |
| Meaning | Formally announcing the birth | A wish for a long life |
| Traditional rituals | First haircut, red eggs | Baby's debut, cake cutting, family portrait |
| Modern practice | Mum is often still recovering; less common | Mum has recovered, baby's routine is settled — increasingly the default |
Both are traditional, but most Hong Kong families now pick one — and increasingly it is the 100-day.
2. Three customs and where they come from
The first haircut
Shaving the hair a baby was born with symbolises leaving the old behind and growing up healthy. Some families keep the hair as a keepsake brush. Many modern families trim a symbolic lock instead of shaving fully.
Red eggs
Red signifies joy; eggs signify new life and completeness. Handing dyed red eggs to relatives is the traditional way of sharing the good news — and the most classic return gift.
Gold and the longevity lock
Elders give gold lockets and bangles to "lock in" blessings and long life. Beyond their value, they are a blessing the family keeps for years.
3. For guests: what to give, how much
Three directions
- A red packet — safest and most welcome; the family can use it as they need.
- Gold — lockets, bangles or charms; the traditional blessing, usually from elders and close relatives.
- Practical gifts — nappies, baby clothes (buy one or two sizes up, babies grow fast), picture books, or baby-store vouchers. The most popular choice among younger friends.
Red packet guidance
| Relationship | Typical amount |
|---|---|
| Colleagues, casual friends | HK$300 – 500 |
| Close friends | HK$500 – 1,000 |
| Immediate family | Per family custom, usually higher; elders often give gold instead |
A practical rule: cover at least the cost of your own attendance. Nudge it up for a restaurant banquet; a relaxed party-room gathering does not require banquet-level amounts.
Three gifts to avoid
- Newborn-size clothing — the baby is already three months old and has likely outgrown it.
- Fragranced skincare — infant skin is sensitive; don't give it without checking with the parents.
- Large toys or furniture — Hong Kong homes are small; ask first.
4. For hosts: return gifts and the day itself
Return gifts, traditional and modern
The traditional return gift is red eggs with ginger vinegar; modern families more often give small boxes of cookies, chocolates or mini cakes, finished with a sticker carrying the baby's name and date. You can do both — red eggs for the elders, sweets for younger guests. For packaging and handout tips, see our return gift guide.
Etiquette notes for the day
- Set up a gift table — one small table for gifts and red packets, with a family member noting who gave what for thank-yous later.
- Keep baby's meet-and-greet short — a three-month-old tires quickly; concentrate greetings and photos into one window and let baby rest otherwise.
- Thank people personally — handing the return gift over yourself as guests leave means more than any other gesture.
- Reserve feeding and changing space — a basic requirement for any baby occasion; confirm it when choosing a venue.
5. After the 100-day: the next milestone
Next comes the first birthday and the zhua zhou. Many families return to the same venue — baby already knows the space and parents know the drill. See our 1st birthday guide for planning.
6. Hosting a 100-day celebration at Baby E Playhouse
Tsuen Wan IEC 3: 3,000 sq ft of 100% private space for up to 80 guests, with padded flooring, a private feeding and changing corner and comfortable seating for elders — everything a baby occasion actually needs. Seven free add-ons include backdrop and cake table decoration, with 35% off weekdays. For venue and timeline details see our 100-day venue guide, or WhatsApp 9606 5967 for pricing and availability.