Chinese New Year, widely known as the Lunar New Year or Spring Festival, is far more than a simple calendar event. It stands as one of the most significant and vibrant celebrations across East Asia and among Chinese communities around the globe. Rooted in the traditional Chinese lunisolar calendar, it marks the beginning of a new year with themes of renewal and fresh beginnings. Families come together, streets glow with colour and celebration, and cherished customs are lovingly passed down through generations.
When Is Chinese New Year 2026?In 2026, Chinese New Year will be celebrated on Tuesday, February 17.
The festival follows the lunisolar calendar and begins on the first new moon closest to the start of spring. The celebrations extend for about 15 to 16 days, concluding with the Lantern Festival on March 3, 2026.
Zodiac Animal for 2026: The Year of the Fire HorseEach new year also ushers in a new zodiac sign. The Chinese zodiac follows a 12-animal cycle, with every year linked to a specific animal and one of the five elements — wood, fire, earth, metal, or water — forming a 60-year cycle.
The year 2026 is the Year of the Fire Horse, a powerful and dynamic combination.
In Chinese astrological tradition:The Horse represents freedom, movement, courage and vitality.
The Fire element signifies passion, ambition and high energy.
Those born in Horse years, such as 1990, 2002 or 2014, may find 2026 especially eventful and transformative.
Spring Festival Traditions
# Family Reunions and Festive FeastsAt the heart of the celebration is the reunion dinner held on New Year’s Eve. No matter how far they live, family members make every effort to return home. The meal carries deep symbolism: dumplings are associated with wealth, while fish represents abundance and prosperity for the year ahead.
# Red Decorations and Symbols of Good FortuneHomes, streets and shops are adorned in red, a colour believed to ward off misfortune and attract happiness and good luck. Red lanterns, couplets and intricate paper cuttings create a festive atmosphere everywhere.
# Lion and Dragon DancesPublic parades often feature vibrant lion and dragon dances. Accompanied by rhythmic drums and cymbals, these performances are meant to drive away negative energy and invite prosperity.
# Red Envelopes (Hongbao)Elders traditionally gift red envelopes filled with money, known as hongbao, to children and younger family members. These symbolic gifts convey blessings, protection and good fortune for the coming year.
# Fireworks and LanternsFirecrackers and fireworks are lit to dispel evil spirits and welcome new beginnings. The festivities conclude with the Lantern Festival, when illuminated lanterns light up the night sky and communities gather for cultural performances and celebrations.
A Celebration Across the WorldAlthough Chinese New Year is a major public holiday in China, often marked by extended vacations and one of the largest annual human migrations as families travel home, its spirit resonates worldwide. Cities across Southeast Asia, North America, Europe and Australia host grand festivities featuring lion dances, flower markets, traditional foods and cultural showcases, bringing communities together in celebration of heritage and hope for the year ahead.