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Festival Taboo Guide

Understanding traditional taboos to avoid bad luck and invite prosperity during festivals.

Spring Festival Taboos

❌ Don't Wash Hair

Washing hair during the first few days is believed to wash away good luck

❌ Don't Use Sharp Objects

Scissors and knives "cut" good fortune and prosperity

❌ Don't Cry

Crying brings bad luck and sorrow for the coming year

❌ Don't Break Things

Breaking items symbolizes breaking your fortune

❌ Don't Say Unlucky Words

Avoid words like "death," "ghost," or "empty"

Gift-Giving Taboos

• Clocks: "Giving a clock" sounds like attending a funeral
• White/black wrapping: Colors of mourning
• Pears: "Pear" sounds like "separation"
• Umbrellas: "Umbrella" sounds like "scattering"
• Handkerchiefs: Associated with farewell
• Odd numbers: Use even numbers for gifts (2, 6, 8 are lucky)

General Festival Taboos

• Don't visit empty-handed (always bring a gift)
• Don't clean or sweep during the festival (you'll sweep away luck)
• Don't lend money (you'll lose wealth)
• Don't return gifts (it brings bad luck to the giver)
• Don't eat porridge or medicine (signifies poverty)

Lucky Alternatives

✅ Do Use Red

Red symbolizes luck, joy, and drives away evil

✅ Do Give Oranges

Oranges symbolize wealth and good fortune

✅ Do Use Even Numbers

Even numbers represent pairs and completeness

✅ Do Smile

A happy demeanor invites positive energy

Understanding Matters

While taboos may seem superstitious, they reflect deep cultural values of respect, consideration, and the desire for good fortune. Understanding them helps show cultural appreciation.