What to expect in the Year of the Horse: Chinese New Year and horoscope explained
The lunar new year begins Feb. 17, ushering in the ambitious Fire Horse for the first time since 1966.
Millions of people around the world are celebrating Chinese New Year, which begins Tuesday, Feb. 17. Unlike New Year’s Day on the Gregorian calendar, the Chinese calendar follows the lunar cycle. The holiday falls on the second new moon after the winter solstice, which occurs Dec. 21.
With the new year comes a new animal in the Chinese zodiac, which operates on a 12-year cycle. In 2026, the current zodiac animal, the snake, will step aside for an altogether different creature: the horse.
What does the Year of the Horse mean?
The horse is the seventh animal in the 12-year cycle.
People born in the Year of the Horse are said to be natural leaders who refuse to back down, channeling their drive into determined action that can sometimes come across as stubborn boldness.
As they mature, they learn to focus that powerful energy, combining agility, sharp instincts about people and strong principles to pursue meaningful goals. Outgoing and authentic, they think fast, speak confidently and are unafraid to showcase their abilities.
Their enthusiasm, honesty, courage and eloquence, along with a genuine desire to stand up for others, make them inspiring figures both professionally and personally.
On the flip side, horse personalities can quickly lose interest in things once their initial excitement fades. Driven by a need for recognition, they may become self-focused in ways that overlook others and create tension in their relationships.
The Year of the Fire Horse
So what is in store for 2026?
The Chinese zodiac is governed by five elements: metal, wood, water, fire and earth. This year’s element is fire, making 2026 the Year of the Fire Horse, the first since 1966.
It is a combination that adds extra layers of meaning. Generally, the Fire Horse symbolizes opportunity and optimism, so 2026 is viewed by many as the perfect moment to put plans into action or begin a new venture.
Years of the Horse
- 1906
- 1918
- 1930
- 1942
- 1954
- 1966
- 1978
- 1990
- 2002
- 2014
- 2026
- 2038
- 2050
- 2062
- 2074
- 2086,
- 2098
Some famous people born in the Year of the Horse include Nelson Mandela, Muhammad Ali, Joe Biden, Halle Berry and Kobe Bryant.
When is Chinese New Year?
The date of Chinese New Year varies each year with the start of the lunar calendar. In 2026, it begins Feb. 17 and runs through March 3.
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