Celebrations and Customs

New years greetings, etc. on packaging of oranges

Q: Here in singapore during chinese new year time, there will be a lot of oranges sold in supermarkets. the oranges are packed in a decorated box, each orange is wrapped in plastic on which written in mandarin, new years greetings or wishes which means more or less "Good Fortune" or similar sentences. The oranges are halal of course but it's the packing that make me uncomfortable to buy them.So is it ok for muslims to eat this oranges?

Presents on Nicolas day

Q: I had today head ache what made me difficult to concentrate. I opened up the door to a sister who holds a present for my children. Because of my condition I did not realize what I did or was not able to correct situation. She is a Muslim sister and clearly said that this present is because of Nicolas. (In Germany we have Nicolas day in our schools. Children receive gifts from their teachers.) She is a neighbour and new interested in Islam and I work on her. I did not want to say it directly but later on explained that she should give such presents for the sake of Allah Ta´ala and earn thawab and send thawab to her dead father. But expressed my happiness about the present for my children because I know that she likes me and want to stay in contact with me. I told her that also there is no need for present if I read Yasin Shareef for her father and I cannot accept gifts. I am very sad that I did not react on the door before taking the gift. Please explain me if there was something wrong according deen. What would be wisdom? I know it is kufr to give gifts on a eid day of other religions but what is if accept them what I did but with the intention to bring to her attention.

Saying "Happy Festive Season"

Q: Is one permitted to wish customers well on their respective holy days by saying "Happy Festive Season" instead of "Happy Christmas/Diwali"?

Similarly, can one have specials/decorations etc. in one's business which say "Festive Season" specials, rather than a religious promotion saying "Christmas specials or Diwali specials"?

Birthday Party

Q: I wanted to know that if a relative invites me for a dinner party which is for celebrating his sons birthday then should I avoid the invitation or should I join the dinner party and avoid the birthday celebration?

Birthdays

Q: What is the ruling regarding birthdays? Our muslims greet one another on this day and feel insulted if one does not greet them. Another issue is regarding birthday cakes, gifts and parties. Please advise.