Forbidden shirt colors on Chinese New Year 2026 and the meaning of using oranges in worship; which dates does Chinese New Year fall on? Forbidden shirt colors according to belief.
For the year 2026, the Fire Horse year, there are many interesting points. Let's see how to prepare for the best luck.
When is Chinese New Year 2026?
Next year, the Chinese New Year festival falls in mid-February:
• Preparation Day (15 February 2026): Day to buy items for worship.
• Worship Day (16 February 2026): Day to honor deities and ancestors (considered the last day of the Chinese year).
• Celebration/New Year's Day (17 February 2026): Start of the Chinese New Year, a fresh beginning.
Forbidden shirt colors according to tradition.
According to ancient Chinese custom, the colors to strictly avoid during Chinese New Year are black and white.
• Why avoid these colors? Because they symbolize funerals, sorrow, and death, which conflict with the festive atmosphere of the New Year.
• Recommended colors: definitely red (power and good luck) or gold (wealth). If you dislike bright red, pink or bright orange are acceptable alternatives.
Why worship and give oranges?
In Teochew Chinese, orange is called “Tai Kik” (大吉).
• Meaning: The word “Kik” sounds like “good luck” or “auspiciousness.”
• Symbolism: The orange’s golden-yellow skin resembles gold, so giving oranges symbolizes sharing good fortune and wealth.
Recommended types of oranges for worship.
To convey good meaning and elegance, I recommend these three types of oranges:
Orange varieties, auspicious meanings, and key characteristics.
Mandarin Orange: Symbolizes a brilliant new beginning. Beautiful fruit with smooth skin, the most popular choice.
Honey Tangerine: Signifies sweetness in life. Good flavor and fragrance, symbolizing enduring love.
Satsuma Orange: Represents strong health and longevity. Usually seedless, symbolizing smoothness and no obstacles.
Tip: Choose large, firm oranges with golden-orange skin free of blemishes. When worshiping or giving to elders, use 4 fruits (symbolizing multiplied good luck) or 8 fruits (a number of wealth).