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Lunar New Year Celebrations Dominated by Symbolism of Red

  //food-wine.news-articles.net/content/2026/02/18 .. -celebrations-dominated-by-symbolism-of-red.html
  Published in Food and Wine on Wednesday, February 18th 2026 at 20:35 GMT by Seattle Times
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Seattle, WA - February 19th, 2026 - As communities around the globe welcome the Lunar New Year, a vibrant hue dominates the celebrations: red. More than just a visually striking color, red holds deep cultural significance, embodying good fortune, joy, and protection against negativity. This year's festivities, witnessed in bustling public spaces and cherished intimate family gatherings, offer a compelling glimpse into how this powerful color is interwoven into the fabric of Lunar New Year traditions.

For millions across East Asian cultures - including those with roots in China, Korea, Vietnam, and beyond - the Lunar New Year marks a time of renewal, reflection, and hope for the year ahead. While customs vary across regions, the consistent presence of red is a unifying element. Its symbolism isn't accidental; it's the result of centuries of cultural evolution and belief.

The origins of red's auspicious associations are multifaceted. Historically, red was believed to ward off evil spirits and bad luck. This belief stemmed from ancient legends about mythical beasts who feared the color. Consequently, red decorations became a crucial component of New Year celebrations, meant to frighten away misfortune and attract positive energy. This practice continues today, with red lanterns illuminating streets, red envelopes (hongbao or sebaetdon) containing money gifted to loved ones, and red clothing frequently worn to symbolize prosperity and happiness.

Beyond its protective qualities, red also represents vitality and good luck. In Chinese culture, red is associated with the element of fire, which embodies passion, energy, and life force. The color is considered particularly favorable during the New Year, as it is believed to attract wealth and success. Businesses often display red banners and decorations to draw in customers and ensure a prosperous year. Families adorn their homes with red couplets (chunlian) containing auspicious phrases, further reinforcing the positive symbolism.

The pervasiveness of red extends beyond mere decoration. The tradition of gifting red envelopes is a prime example of its practical application. These envelopes, filled with money, are given to children and unmarried adults as a gesture of good will and a wish for good fortune in the coming year. The red color itself is considered as important as the monetary gift, symbolizing the giver's sincere wishes for the recipient's well-being.

Looking beyond the explicitly festive, red subtly permeates other aspects of Lunar New Year celebrations. Traditional foods often incorporate red ingredients or are served on red plates. The color is also prevalent in the art and crafts associated with the holiday, from intricate paper cuttings to vibrant paintings. Even the lion and dragon dances, staples of Lunar New Year parades, often feature performers clad in striking red costumes.

In modern times, the significance of red hasn't diminished. While interpretations and expressions of the Lunar New Year may evolve, the core symbolism of red remains deeply ingrained. Communities are increasingly finding new ways to showcase the color and its meaning, from large-scale public art installations to intimate family traditions. The Seattle Times' recent photo series beautifully captures this blend of tradition and modernity, showcasing the presence of red in both public displays and private celebrations. The images highlight how the color seamlessly integrates into the lives of individuals and communities, serving as a visual reminder of the holiday's core values.

The enduring appeal of red during the Lunar New Year isn't simply about aesthetics; it's a testament to the power of color to evoke emotion, transmit cultural values, and connect generations. It serves as a vibrant beacon of hope and renewal, inviting individuals to embrace the promise of a prosperous and joyful year ahead. As celebrations continue, the color red will undoubtedly remain a central and cherished element, symbolizing the rich heritage and enduring spirit of the Lunar New Year.