Chinese New Year 2026 is here and year of Horse has special meaning

The Chinese New Year, which falls between 17 February and 3 March in 2026, follows the traditional lunisolar Chinese calendar, differing from the Gregorian New Year celebrated on 1 January. The festival begins on the first day of the first lunar month, typically the second new moon after the winter solstice, placing it between 21 January and 20 February annually.

The celebration spans approximately 15 days due to its cultural richness and multi-stage nature. It follows the lunar calendar and emphasises family gatherings, ancestor veneration, and community renewal.

Each day has unique rituals, culminating in the Lantern Festival, and the period also accommodates extensive seasonal travel.

However, with numerous posts about the event circulating on social media, questions arise regarding why each year is symbolised by an animal and what the Year of the Horse signifies.

There are various legends explaining the selection of animals for the Chinese zodiac, one of which involves a race among the animals.

As per Lakeside Arts, “Long ago, in China, the Jade Emperor decided there should be a way of measuring time. On his birthday, he told the animals that there was to be a swimming race.

“The first twelve animals across the fast-flowing river would be the winners, and they would each have a year of the zodiac named after them.”

The creatures then gathered along the riverbank, each arriving at different intervals. The 12 animals featured in the Chinese Zodiac follow a repeating 12-year pattern: Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat (alternatively referred to as Sheep or Ram), Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig.

Each creature is linked to particular character traits and corresponds to a year within the lunar calendar.

For instance, individuals born during the year of the Rabbit are considered to be kind, empathetic, and graceful, while those born in the year of the Monkey are regarded as intelligent, humorous, outgoing, and full of energy.

Following the Chinese New Year in 2026, the Year of the Fire Horse begins. The Horse occupies the seventh position among the Chinese Zodiac animals.

According to China Highlights, “In Chinese culture, the Horse is known for its energetic and dynamic nature. It symbolises vitality, speed, and perseverance.

“People born in the Year of the Horse are believed to possess similar traits, such as being hardworking, warm-hearted, and independent.”

The horse is also thought to attract prosperity and favourable fortune, meaning individuals born during horse years (2014, 2002, 1990, 1978, 1966, 1954, 1942) are expected to enjoy successful periods.

Those born during a fire horse year, such as 2026, are typically “smart, charismatic, lively, overflowing with enthusiasm, but stubborn”.