Forbidden shirt colors for Chinese New Year 2026 and the meaning of offering oranges. When is Chinese New Year? Which shirt colors are considered “forbidden” according to belief?
For the year 2026, the Fire Horse year, there are many interesting things to note. Let's see how to prepare for the best luck.
When is Chinese New Year 2026?
Next year's Chinese New Year festival will fall in mid-February:
• Shopping Day (15 February 2026): The day to purchase offerings for worship.
• Worship Day (16 February 2026): The day to worship deities and ancestors, marking the end of the Chinese lunar year.
• Celebration Day (17 February 2026): The first day of the Chinese New Year, symbolizing a fresh start.
"Forbidden" shirt colors according to belief
According to ancient Chinese customs, the colors strictly to avoid during Chinese New Year are black and white.
• Why are they forbidden? Because these two colors represent funerals, mourning, and death, which clash with the festive atmosphere of the New Year.
• Recommended colors: Certainly red (symbolizing power and good luck) or gold (symbolizing wealth). For those who dislike bright red, bright pink or orange are acceptable alternatives.
Why offer and give oranges?
In Teochew Chinese, oranges are called “Tai Kik” (大吉).
• Meaning: The word “Kik” sounds like “good luck” or “auspiciousness.”
• Symbolism: The orange’s golden-yellow peel resembles gold, so giving oranges symbolizes bestowing good fortune and wealth.
Recommended types of oranges for worship
To convey good meaning and look elegant, I recommend these three types of oranges:
Orange variety - Auspicious meaning - Highlights
Mandarin orange - A brilliant new beginning - Beautiful fruit with smooth skin, the most popular choice.
Honey tangerine - Sweetness in life - Good taste and fragrance, symbolizing enduring love.
Satsuma orange - Health and longevity - Usually seedless, representing smoothness and obstacle-free life.
Tip: Choose oranges that are large, with tight skin, golden orange color, and no bruises. When worshiping or offering to elders, use 4 oranges (symbolizing multiplied good luck) or 8 oranges (a number representing wealth).