Lunar New Year 2026 marks the Year of the Horse, a symbol of freedom, vitality, energy, independence, enthusiasm, and ambition, according to the Chinese zodiac. Celebrations across the UK and worldwide include dancing dragons, fireworks, and festive foods.
The Lunar New Year is based on a lunar or lunisolar calendar, unlike the UK's Gregorian solar calendar. In countries such as China, Japan, Taiwan, and Thailand, the date tracks the moon's phases or both the sun and moon. The term 'Lunar New Year' is broadly used, while 'Chinese New Year' specifically refers to traditions rooted in Chinese history and culture.
Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival (Chūn Jié), begins with the new year and ends with the Lantern Festival (Yuán Xiāo Jié). The zodiac follows a 12-year cycle of animals plus a 60-year cycle combining animals and elements. The horse is associated with personal growth, making 2026 favourable for self-development.
Key traditions include giving hóngbāo (red envelopes with money for good luck), making prosperity dumplings, and performing the Dragon Dance, where a long dragon puppet is manipulated by multiple dancers. The zodiac animals originate from a Han Dynasty myth where the Jade Emperor held a contest; the rat won first place.
