On February 17, 2026, more than 1.5 billion people worldwide will welcome the start of the Chinese New Year. Also called Lunar or Spring New Year, it is one of the most important holidays in China. The date of the two-week celebration is determined by the lunar calendar. It usually falls between late January and mid-February. For many families, it is a time to reflect on the past year and prepare for a fresh start.
This year's festivities will begin on February 16 with the reunion dinner. This is the most important meal of the year, with each dish carrying a special meaning. A whole chicken symbolizes family unity and completeness, while long, uncut noodles represent a long life. Dumplings and spring rolls, which resemble gold bars, are believed to bring wealth and prosperity. Even the number of dishes matters: eight is linked to fortune, while nine stands for longevity and good luck.
During the holiday, children and young adults often receive red envelopes containing money from older family members. Called hongbao, they are given as a blessing for health, happiness, and success in the new year. Every night, the skies light up with fireworks. The loud sounds are believed to scare away evil spirits and welcome good fortune.
The celebrations will end on March 3, 2026, with the Lantern Festival. On this night, families hang red lanterns in homes and public spaces. People also gather in the streets to enjoy performances and parades. One of the highlights is the dragon dance, in which performers use long poles to guide a brightly colored silk-and-paper dragon through the crowd. The dragon’s movements are meant to bring strength and good luck.
Beyond China
Lunar New Year is celebrated in many other Southeast Asian countries, each with their own traditions. In South Korea, the holiday is called Seollal. Families gather to honor their ancestors through special ceremonies. Traditional foods, such as rice cake soup, are served to mark the passing of another year and to bring health and good fortune. In Vietnam, the holiday is known as Tết. Families decorate their homes with flowers, clean ancestral altars, and prepare special meals. The celebration is also common in Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia, where traditional customs are often blended with local culture.
Year of the Horse
Each Chinese year is linked to one of the twelve animals of the Chinese zodiac. According to legend, the Jade Emperor wanted to choose twelve animals to represent the zodiac, so he held a great race across a river. The first twelve to cross the line were honored with a year named after them. These animals are believed to influence the personality and fate of people born under their sign.
2026 is the Year of the Horse. In Chinese culture, the horse represents independence, determination, and hard work. People born in Horse years, such as 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002, and 2014, are often described as confident, social, and active. They are believed to enjoy travel, change, and new challenges. The Year of the Horse is often seen as a time for taking action, making bold decisions, and pursuing personal goals.
Xin Nian Kuai Le! (Happy New Year!)
Resources: Wikipedia.org, Chinahighlights.com, History.com
