When is it?
In 2026, Chinese New Year (also known as Lunar New Year) falls on Tuesday, February 17th. This date marks the beginning of the Year of the Horse in the Chinese zodiac cycle.
The Chinese astrological New Year, which is based on the start of spring in the Chinese solar calendar (called Li-Chun), begins on February 4, 2026. This date is significant in Chinese astrology as it marks the transition into the new astrological year, even though the main New Year celebrations occur later on February 17th
Superstitions
Cleaning and Sweeping
- No sweeping or cleaning on New Year’s Day: It is believed that sweeping or cleaning the house on New Year’s Day will sweep away good luck and fortune for the coming year. All cleaning should be done before New Year’s Eve to remove bad luck and make way for good fortune.
- No throwing out garbage: Throwing out garbage on New Year’s Day is also avoided, as it is thought to symbolize throwing away wealth and good luck.
Other Common Superstitions
- No breaking dishes or glass: Breaking dishes or glass is considered bad luck, as it is believed to bring misfortune or family disputes.
- Avoid sharp objects: Using scissors, knives, or other sharp objects on New Year’s Day is discouraged, as they are thought to “cut off” good luck.
- No washing hair: Some believe washing hair on New Year’s Day washes away good luck, especially for the first three days of the New Year.
- Avoid wearing black or white: These colors are associated with mourning and bad luck. Red is the preferred color, as it symbolizes luck, happiness, and prosperity.
- No visiting hospitals or attending funerals: Visiting hospitals or funerals during the New Year period is considered inauspicious, as it is believed to bring illness or bad luck.
- Avoid lending or borrowing money: Lending or borrowing money on New Year’s Day is thought to bring financial misfortune for the rest of the year.
Positive Traditions
Eating lucky foods: Foods like fish (symbolizing abundance), dumplings (wealth), and rice cakes (growth and progress) are eaten to bring prosperity.
Wearing red: Red is believed to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck.
Giving red envelopes (hongbao): These are filled with money and given to children and unmarried adults to bring good fortune.
Fortunes
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