Year of the Horse: The meaning of the Lunar New Year symbol for 2026 - In the Chinese zodiac, a different animal is honoured every year

The energy of the Fire Horse will be felt collectively. However, how we experience the energy of the pyro pony depends on our Chinese zodiac sign.

Lunar New Year begins February 17—here's what it celebrates, why dates shift, and what the Year of the Fire Horse means.

“Right after (midnight) on New Year’s Eve, fireworks will be launched to celebrate the coming of the New Year as well as to drive away evil,” the Wake Forest University museum said. “It is believed that the person who launches the first firework of the New Year will have good luck.”

The Lunar New Year is welcomed with a variety of cultural traditions and rituals such as carnivals, parades, fireworks and ancestor remembrance.

The Year of the Fire Horse is upon us, and four zodiac signs stand to ride that pyro pony straight into the light of love. “As the dynamic Fire Horse year of 2026 gallops in, it brings a wave of passionate energy perfect for forging deep connections,

Chinese metaphysics consultant Vicki Iskandar tells PEOPLE exclusively about the Lunar Year's do's and don'ts

Lan Su Chinese Garden's celebration includes lion dances, Chinese calligraphy, cultural performances and nighttime shows through March 8.