What Date Does Chinese New Year 2026 Fall On?
Chinese New Year 2026 will fall on February 17, 2026. This celebration marks the beginning of a new year in the Chinese lunar calendar and is an important moment for Chinese people around the world. The year 2026 also marks the beginning of the Horse zodiac, which is believed to bring dynamic energy, courage, and enthusiasm to face new challenges.
As part of the tradition, Chinese New Year celebrations last for 15 days, culminating in Cap Go Meh. In 2026, Cap Go Meh falls on March 3, 2026. This day is usually filled with various religious rituals, lion dance performances, and other activities that symbolize hope and good fortune for the new year.
Chinese New Year Clothing
One of the typical traditions during Chinese New Year is wearing red or gold clothing. Red symbolizes good luck, happiness, and protection from evil spirits, while gold symbolizes prosperity. Here are some clothes that are often worn during Chinese New Year celebrations:
- Cheongsam (Qipao): Traditional women's dress that has a distinctive motif and is often red or gold.
- Tangzhuang: Traditional men's clothing with a distinctive Mandarin collar and knot buttons.
- Modern clothing with a touch of Chinese culture: Nowadays, many people choose modern clothing that still carries the color red or typical Chinese elements.
Must-Eat Foods During Chinese New Year
Chinese New Year is not complete without typical foods that have special meanings. Some of the must-have foods during Chinese New Year celebrations include:
- Snack Cake (Nian Gao) – Symbolizes increased fortune and success in the new year.
- Mandarin Orange – Symbolizes good luck and prosperity.
- Fish (Yu) – Symbolizes abundance and good fortune.
- Dumplings (Jiaozi) – Considered a symbol of prosperity because their shape resembles gold bars.
- Longevity Noodles – Symbolizes longevity and health.
- Spring Rolls – Represents prosperity because their shape resembles rolled gold.
Prohibitions During Chinese New Year
In addition to the traditions that must be done, there are also several taboos that are believed to bring bad luck if violated, including:
- You May Not Sweep or Throw Away Trash on the First Day of Chinese New Year – It is feared that it will throw away the luck that has just arrived.
- You May Not Cut Your Hair on the First Day of Chinese New Year – It is believed that it can eliminate good luck.
- You May Not Use Negative Words – Words such as "die", "unlucky", or "bankrupt" should be avoided so as not to bring negative energy.
- You May Not Fight or Get Angry – Chinese New Year is a moment to bring peace and happiness.
- You May Not Wear Black or White Clothes – These colors are associated with grief and death.
End Words
Chinese New Year 2026 will be a meaningful celebration, especially with the arrival of the Horse zodiac which brings new spirit. Traditions such as wearing red clothes, enjoying special foods, and avoiding certain taboos are still carried out by the Chinese community. By adhering to these traditions, it is hoped that good luck, health, and happiness will accompany you throughout the new year. Gong Xi Fa Cai!