There are several special circumstances in which tea is prepared and consumed.

In China, the younger generation commonly show respect to the older generation. One traditional holiday activity is to offer a cup of tea to one’s elders at a family dinner gatherings.

In the past, people of lower ranks served tea to those of higher ranks. Today, however, parents may sometimes pour a cup of tea for their children when at home, a boss may even pour tea for subordinates at restaurants. However, the lower ranking person should not expect the higher rank person to serve him or her tea on a formal occasion.

In Chinese culture, people make serious apologies to others by pouring them tea as a sign of regret or submission.

In the traditional Chinese marriage ceremony, the bride and groom kneel before their parents and serve them tea to express their gratitude. The parents usually drink a small portion of the tea and then give them a red envelope, which symbolizes good luck.

This article by Yang Tianqing and Daniel Kister.