The Fire Horse Canters into a New Year

Today, February 17, 2026, marks the beginning of the new year, according to the traditional Chinese calendar. 2026 is the year of the Fire Horse and also marks the 43rd year in the 78th cycle of this calendar system. While the turn of the year in the Gregorian calendar took place on January 1, the Chinese New Year is based on the lunar calendar. The so-called Spring Festival is celebrated in several Asian countries and has a tradition dating back thousands of years.

The Chinese calendar and its cycles

The beginning of the new year is based on the second or, more rarely, the third, new moon after the winter solstice. As a result, the New Year festival always falls between January 21 and February 20. The Year of the Fire Horse, which began today, ends on February 5, 2027, lasting around twelve and a half months, according to the Western calendar.

Symbolism and customs

Symbolism of the horse and traditional customs In the Chinese horoscope, the horse is attributed with characteristics such as enthusiasm, courage, and energy. It is considered dynamic and assertive. The horse has played an important role in cultural tradition, especially in a military context, which is also reflected in idioms that emphasize success and determination. Numerous customs are associated with the New Year festival. Before the turn of the year, many families clean their homes to symbolically leave the old behind. On New Year's Day itself, however, there is no cleaning so as not to drive away the newly begun good fortune. Doors and windows are opened to allow positive influences to enter the house. The color red plays a central role, as it is traditionally associated with luck and protection. Certain foods and behaviors are also considered lucky or unlucky, which is why many people follow the relevant recommendations.