Why Is Red Worn During Chinese New Year? Exploring the Meaning of the Auspicious Color and Alternative Lucky Colors

Discover the meaning of red during Chinese New Year through the legend of "Nian," and explore alternative auspicious colors you can wear to bring luck and success throughout 2026. Check them out here!","tags":["Chinese New Year","red color","legend","luck","2026"]

Have you ever wondered why the Chinese New Year festival is filled with the color red—from clothing to red envelopes? In reality, red symbolizes more than just beauty; it carries a legend of battling a ferocious beast and beliefs about powerful energy. Thairath Online takes you to find out which colors, besides red, can bring good fortune on this Chinese New Year.

The Legend of "Nian": The Origin of the Auspicious Red Color for Chinese New Year

According to ancient Chinese cultural records, the reason "red" became the signature color of Chinese New Year comes from the legend of a monster called "Nian." This creature would emerge at the end of each year to harm people and destroy crops.

Ancient Chinese people discovered that Nian feared three things: bright light, loud noises, and the color red. Since then, on Chinese New Year's Day (Chiu Yi), people have worn red clothing, hung red paper decorations (couplets), and set off firecrackers to drive away evil spirits and welcome good fortune into their homes.

The Meaning of Red During Chinese New Year in Psychological and Spiritual Terms

Symbolically, for the Chinese, red is not only about warding off evil spirits but also holds deeper meanings, including:

• Fire Element: According to the Five Elements theory, red represents the fire element, symbolizing glory, brilliance, and positive energy.
• Luck: It is believed that red attracts good fortune and wealth flow, which is why red envelopes (ang pao) are used.
• Happiness and Celebration: Red is always used in auspicious events like weddings and birthdays to express joy.

Which Colors Can You Wear for Chinese New Year? Explore Alternative Auspicious Colors for Fashion Enthusiasts

If you prefer not to wear red or want to mix and match for a modern look, other auspicious Chinese New Year colors based on the Five Elements theory that bring good luck include:

• Yellow/Gold: The color of emperors, symbolizing power, prestige, and wealth—especially related to career and finances.
• Green: Representing the wood element, symbolizing new beginnings, growth, and health—emphasizing freshness and vitality.
• Purple: Signifying luxury, elegance, and steady fortune—emphasizing dignity.
• Blue/Navy: Representing calmness, coolness, and flow—like a river bringing wealth into the home—highlighting business negotiation and trade, helping smooth communication without obstacles.
• Orange/Brick Red: Symbolizing brightness and energetic new starts—emphasizing creativity and. (Fragment)
• Pink: Representing gentleness and kindness—focusing on love and relationships, enhancing charm and likability, and gaining support from elders.

Colors to Avoid on Chinese New Year

On Chinese New Year or visiting days, it is recommended to avoid white and black. In traditional Chinese culture, these colors are associated with mourning and funerals, which may be considered to disrupt good fortune at the start of the new year.

Wearing red clothing on Chinese New Year is not just a fashion choice but a preservation of a culture passed down for thousands of years, bringing peace of mind and auspiciousness. However, if red is inconvenient, choosing yellow-gold or purple are good alternatives to enhance your fortune. Most importantly, keep a pure heart and extend good wishes to those around you on Chinese New Year's Day.