Have you heard of a 100 day party? This age old Chinese custom is a celebration of life and parenthood, and we want in on it!
In Chinese culture, celebrating a baby’s first 100 days of life is a cherished tradition, marked by a fun party of family and friends. This age-old custom holds significant importance. Not only is this a milestone in a baby’s life, it’s the re-emergence of a woman back into the community after confinement, in her new role as a mother. Here’s everything you need to know about the history of the 100 day party, and how to host one for your baby!
The history of the 100 day party – what is it?
The 100-day celebration, known as “bai ri yan” in Mandarin, symbolises the baby’s survival through the vulnerable first few months of life. Historically, infant mortality rates were higher, and reaching 100 days was a cause for great celebration, signifying the baby’s health and resilience. While modern medicine means that infant mortality rates aren’t as dire as they were in the past, this milestone is still one to be celebrated.
Beyond survival, the 100-day mark represents the baby’s integration into the family and wider community. It’s a time for loved ones to come together, offer blessings, and wish the child a prosperous and healthy future.
The breaking of confinement, strengthening family and community bonds
In the hustle and bustle of modern life, the 100-day party serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of family. It’s an opportunity for relatives, both near and far, to reunite, share stories, and strengthen familial ties. For new parents, it’s a chance to receive support, advice, and encouragement from seasoned family members as the mother re-enters society after her confinement period.
While the focus is on the baby, the 100-day party is also a celebration of community. Friends, neighbours, and colleagues join in the festivities, bringing gifts and well-wishes for the little one. It’s a testament to the communal spirit of our Singaporean society, where joy is shared and cherished together.
What happens at a 100 day party?
Hosting a 100-day party for your baby is more than just a cultural tradition. It’s an opportunity to create lasting memories with the newest member of your family! Think of this as a birthday party not just for your baby, but for your family unit. Decorate your party venue with balloons, plan a delicious array of food, and take plenty of photos and videos. Fun games include laying out toys for the baby to choose from that could dictate their future career. If they choose a stethoscope, you may have a future doctor! A pen? A writer is in your midst. A football? Your baby might be the next sporting superstar. It’s all good fun!
Symbolic rituals such as the offering of red eggs, which represent fertility and new life, are common during these gatherings. Why red eggs? Eggs are a symbol of fertility, and red is an auspicious colour in Chinese culture, associated with life-generating energy (the sun, blood, and fire), and is also a colour of celebration and prosperity.
Don’t forget the cake! A list of our favourite 100 day party suppliers
So where do you host a 100 day party in Singapore? We have a whole list of party venues for you to choose from, or you can go with a family friendly restaurant or cafe, or even your own home. This is the perfect time to celebrate the milestone of becoming parents and to share a cake with your baby! We love the cakes by Creme Maison Bakery, chosen by one of our favourite acapella stars, Kexin Tay, who recently had a 100 day party for her gorgeous baby, Kira. She also had Elsie’s Kitchen deliver with a buffet and sweet decor.
While it’s exciting to celebrate baby’s first 100 days, the adults and older kids will be the ones that remember the party the most – so just do what you think everyone will enjoy, and remember that sometimes the simpler, the better!
Happy 100 days, little one! DM us if you would like to share your 100 day party snaps.
