Chinese New Year, also known as Spring Festival or Lunar New Year, is the most important and celebrated festival in Chinese culture. It marks the beginning of a new year according to the traditional Chinese lunisolar calendar. The festival is filled with rich traditions and customs that have been passed down for thousands of years. One of the most recognizable aspects of Chinese New Year celebrations is the use of specific colors that hold symbolic meaning. In this article, we will explore the origins and significance of the main colors used for Chinese New Year decorations and traditions.
Red
Red is by far the most predominant color during Chinese New Year. Red represents good fortune, joy, and happiness in Chinese culture. The color is thought to ward off evil spirits and bad luck, which is why red decorations are ubiquitous during the festival.
The importance of red stems from a legend about a mythical beast called Nian. According to folklore, Nian would terrorize villages every New Year and feast on humans and livestock. To scare the beast away, the villagers realized that Nian was afraid of loud noises and the color red. Hence, redCouplets bearing auspicious messages are pasted on doors and entrances. Red lanterns are hung everywhere. Gifts of money are placed in red envelopes called hongbao and given to children. Even clothing and accessories are chosen for their red hues. The vibrancy of red symbolizes vitality, celebration, and prosperity for the coming year.
Gold
Gold is the second most prominent color and often complements the bold red. Gold represents wealth, fortune, and prosperity in Chinese culture. By adorning homes and public spaces with gold and red decor, it is believed that one can attract themselves good luck and prosperity for the coming year.
Gold and red lanterns are ubiquitous during this time. Shop fronts and buildings are strung with red and gold tinsel and paper cutouts. Furniture and surfaces are draped with red and gold fabrics. The color pairing can be seen on everything from clothing to decorations to food. The bold and vibrant gold attracts abundance for the new year.
Orange
Orange is also used prominently during Chinese New Year celebrations. Orange symbolizes fortune and happiness in Chinese culture. It also represents virtue, harmony, and good luck. The color orange is thought to bring positive energies, prosperity, and success in the coming year.
Tangerines and oranges are considered lucky fruits that will bring good fortune. They are displayed as decorations and given as gifts during New Year visits and gatherings. Orange lanterns are also common. For people looking to refresh their home or bring in fresh energy in the new year, orange makes for an auspicious and lively color.
Green
In Chinese culture, green symbolizes new beginnings and growth. As Chinese New Year marks the start of Spring, nature comes back to life and plants regenerate. Decorating with green represents this renewal of life.
Green can be seen in natural decorations made of fresh flowers and plants. Wreaths made of cypress leaves are common decorations on front doors. Eating green dumplings represents new beginnings. Wearing green is also thought to attract new opportunities. Overall, green represents the lush growth seen in Spring and hopes for health and vitality in the new year.
Other Colors
Beyond the main symbolic colors, other hues are also used to attract different virtues.
– Yellow represents happiness and harmony. Yellow decorations can be seen on wreaths, banners, and paper cutouts.
– Pink represents prosperity and romance. Pink paper lanterns and flowers are decorous choices.
– Purple stands for spirituality and nobility. It is used in moderation on banners and papercut art.
– Blue and white represent positive energies and clarity. Blue and white porcelain adornments are popular.
Conclusion
The colors used during Chinese New Year stem from the deep symbolism found in Chinese culture. While red overwhelmingly dominates as it wards off evil forces, other colors attract their own virtues and energies. Gold, orange, green, yellow, pink, purple, blue, and white can be seen incorporated in lanterns, fabrics, flowers, banners, clothing, and other decorations. The lively hues and joyful atmosphere perfectly capture the spirit of renewal and celebration embodied in Chinese New Year.
| Color | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Red | Good fortune, joy, prosperity |
| Gold | Wealth, prosperity |
| Orange | Fortune, happiness, positive energy |
| Green | New beginnings, growth |
| Yellow | Happiness, harmony |
| Pink | Prosperity, romance |
| Purple | Spirituality, nobility |
| Blue | Positive energy, clarity |
| White | Clarity, purity |
