6 Filipino Foods to Eat During New Year's Eve for Better Luck and Wealth in 2026

While the neighbours are busy setting up the karaoke for a long night of music, the focus is now on the kitchen. In the Philippines, the Media Noche dinner is not just a meal. It is a way to follow pamahiin (superstitions) that help us hope for a smoother life and more money in the coming months.

2026 is the Year of the Fire Horse. This year stands for energy, speed, and big success. To help your family get off to a great start, here are the lucky Filipino foods you should prepare for your feast.

1. Kakanin for stronger family bonds

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Sticky rice dishes, or kakanin, are very important for Filipino celebrations. The sticky part of the food is meant to keep the family bond tight all year long. It is also believed to make good luck stick to you so that your fortune does not slide away. You can serve a fancy Bibingka Royale topped with cheese and salted egg, pichipichi, kutsinta, or a tray of Biko with Latik for everyone to share.

Also read: FREE NYE 2026 Countdown & Firework Shows in the Philippines

2. Golden Lumpia to attract wealth

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Deep-fried spring rolls are a favourite at any Pinoy party because they are delicious. They are also lucky because their golden colour and shape look like gold bars. Serving a big plate of Lumpiang Shanghai is a symbolic way to invite wealth and prosperity into your home for 2026.

3. Whole chicken for a good beginning

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A whole chicken represents wholeness and a good start to the year. It is a sign of family unity. For a special occasion like Media Noche, many families serve Chicken Relleno, which is a deboned chicken stuffed with ground meat, eggs, and raisins. A simple Roasted Whole Chicken is also a great way to show a complete and happy household.

4. The classic Pancit for a long life

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Noodles are a symbol of health and a long life. The most important rule to remember is that you should not cut the noodles while you are cooking or eating them. Keeping the noodles long helps ensure a long life for the whole family. Instead of the usual pansit, try serving Pansit Malabon or Pansit Luglug with lots of seafood toppings to make the meal feel more special.

5. Whole fish for extra prosperity

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In many traditions, fish represents a surplus or having more than enough. To keep the luck, the fish should be served whole with the head and tail still on. This means your year will start and end with plenty of resources. You can prepare an Escabeche (Sweet and Sour Fish) using Lapu-Lapu or a Steamed Pompano with ginger and soy sauce.

Also read: 15 Best Pinoy Potluck Food for Holiday Parties & Where To Get Them

6. Round fruits for success and money

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Displaying round fruits is a classic Filipino custom. Round shapes represent fullness and success. Fruits like oranges and tangerines are especially lucky because their golden colour represents money. You can serve these in a chilled Crema de Fruta or a classic Filipino Fruit Salad with grapes and cherries to bring a sweet start to your 2026.

Preparing these lucky Filipino foods is a great way to enjoy Media Noche while keeping our favourite traditions alive. By choosing these special dishes, you are setting a positive mood for a fast and successful Year of the Fire Horse. These recipes are the best way to feed your family while wishing for a prosperous year ahead.

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