Welcoming the Coming Chinese Lunar New Year

Happy New Year! February 17, 2026 marks the start of the Year of the Fire Horse, a combination that blends the bold, freedom-loving energy of the Horse with the intense, passionate element of Fire. The Horse symbolizes movement, independence, charisma, and swift progress, while Fire adds ambition, visibility, and emotional intensity. A Fire Horse year is often seen as dynamic and fast-paced—favorable for taking initiative, pursuing big goals, and embracing change—but it can also bring impulsiveness and dramatic turns if energy isn’t balanced. Overall, 2026 carries a spirit of courage, momentum, and bold action.

As the new moon rises, families across China and around the world will celebrate the Chinese Lunar New Year—also known as Spring Festival. It’s a time of reunion dinners, red envelopes (hongbao), fireworks, and wishes for prosperity, health, and good fortune in the year ahead. 

A Brief Overview of the Chinese Zodiac
The Chinese zodiac (Sheng Xiao) follows a repeating 12-year cycle. Each year is represented by an animal sign: Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat (Sheep), Monkey, Rooster, Dog, Pig. In addition, each year is associated with one of five elements: Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, or Water.

Your zodiac sign is determined by your birth year (based on the lunar calendar, which usually begins between January 21 and February 20).

Find Your Zodiac Animal
​Use the table below to identify your animal sign based on your birth year. 

If you were born in…                                Your Animal

2020, 2008, 1996, 1984, 1972               Rat

2021, 2009, 1997, 1985, 1973.              Ox

2022, 2010, 1998, 1986, 1974.              Tiger

2023, 2011, 1999, 1987, 1975.              Rabbit

2024, 2012, 2000, 1988, 1976.              Dragon

2025, 2013, 2001, 1989, 1977.              Snake

2026, 2014, 2002, 1990, 1978.              Horse

2027, 2015, 2003, 1991, 1979.              Goat

2028, 2016, 2004, 1992, 1980.              Monkey

2029, 2017, 2005, 1993, 1981.              Rooster

2030, 2018, 2006, 1994, 1982.              Dog

2031, 2019, 2007, 1995, 1983               Pig

Find Your Element
Your element is linked to the last digit of your birth year:

Last Digit of Birth Year                    Element

                   0 or 1                               Metal
                   2 or 3.                              Water
                   4 or 5                               Wood
                   6 or 7.                              Fire
                   8 or 9.                              Earth

Short Fortunes for Each Sign

Rat: A year of clever opportunities. Quick thinking will open doors—just be careful not to overcommit.

Ox: Steady progress brings lasting rewards. Patience and discipline will pay off, especially in career matters.

Tiger: Bold moves lead to growth. Trust your instincts, but balance courage with strategy.

Rabbit: A calmer, reflective year. Focus on relationships and personal well-being.

Dragon: Energy and visibility increase. Step into leadership roles—others are watching.

Snake: Wisdom guides success. This is a strong year for planning, learning, and financial decisions.

Horse: Momentum builds quickly. Travel, new ventures, and fresh ideas are favored.

Goat: Creativity shines. Lean into artistic or heartfelt projects.

Monkey: Innovation brings advantage. Adaptability will help you thrive in changing situations.

Rooster: Organization is your superpower this year. Clear goals lead to tangible results.

Dog: Loyalty strengthens bonds. A good year for partnerships and long-term commitments.

Pig: Abundance and enjoyment are highlighted. Balance pleasure with smart financial planning.


The Chinese Lunar New Year reminds us that every year brings a new cycle—an opportunity to reset intentions, strengthen family ties, and move forward with hope.