When Is Chinese New Year 2026? Full Date, Animal & Celebration Guide
Chinese New Year 2026, also known as Lunar New Year or Spring Festival, begins on February 17, 2026. This important traditional holiday marks the start of a new year based on the Chinese lunar calendar and is celebrated by millions of people across China and around the world.
In 2026, the festival welcomes the Year of the Horse, one of the 12 animals in the Chinese zodiac cycle.
This complete guide explains the exact date, zodiac animal meaning, traditions, celebrations, food, decorations, and frequently asked questions about Chinese New Year 2026.
Chinese New Year 2026 Date & Duration
Chinese New Year does not follow the Gregorian calendar. Instead, it begins on the second new moon after the winter solstice, which usually falls between January 21 and February 20.
- Chinese New Year 2026 Date: February 17, 2026
- Eve (Reunion Dinner Night): February 16, 2026
- Lantern Festival (15th Day): March 3, 2026
The celebrations traditionally last for 15 days, ending with the Lantern Festival.
Chinese Zodiac 2026 – Year of the Horse
What Is the Chinese Zodiac Animal for 2026?
The zodiac animal for Chinese New Year 2026 is the Horse.
The Chinese zodiac (Sheng Xiao) consists of 12 animals:
Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig.
2026 marks the return of the Horse in the 12-year cycle.
Meaning of the Year of the Horse
People born in the Year of the Horse are believed to be:
- Energetic
- Independent
- Confident
- Hardworking
- Adventurous
The Horse symbolizes freedom, speed, strength, and success. In Chinese culture, horses are associated with progress and achievement.
Lucky Elements for Year of the Horse 2026
- Lucky Colors: Red, Green, Purple
- Lucky Numbers: 2, 3, 7
- Lucky Directions: South and Southeast
- Lucky Flowers: Calla Lily, Jasmine
Why Chinese New Year Date Changes Every Year
Unlike January 1 (Western New Year), Chinese New Year follows the lunar calendar. The lunar calendar is based on moon cycles, not the sun.
Because of this:
- The date changes every year.
- It always falls between January 21 and February 20.
- The celebration starts on a new moon.
This is why Chinese New Year 2026 falls on February 17 instead of January 1.
How Chinese New Year 2026 Will Be Celebrated
Chinese New Year is the biggest festival in China. Celebrations focus on family reunions, good fortune, and new beginnings.
1. Family Reunion Dinner (Chinese New Year’s Eve)
On February 16, 2026, families gather for a special dinner known as the Reunion Dinner. It is considered the most important meal of the year.
Traditional foods include:
- Dumplings (symbol of wealth)
- Fish (symbol of surplus)
- Spring rolls
- Noodles (symbol of long life)
- Sweet rice cakes
2. Red Decorations & Cleaning Homes
Before the New Year:
- Homes are cleaned to remove bad luck.
- Red lanterns and couplets are placed on doors.
- Red is used everywhere because it represents good fortune and happiness.
3. Red Envelopes (Hongbao)
Married adults give children red envelopes filled with money. These are called Hongbao.
They symbolize:
- Good luck
- Prosperity
- Blessings for the new year
4. Fireworks & Lion Dances
Fireworks are set off at midnight to scare away evil spirits.
Lion and dragon dances are performed in streets and public spaces to bring:
- Good luck
- Prosperity
- Protection
5. Visiting Relatives & Friends
During the 15-day celebration, families visit relatives and friends to exchange gifts and greetings.
Common greeting:
“Gong Xi Fa Cai” (Wishing you wealth and prosperity)
Chinese New Year Traditions to Follow in 2026
If you want to celebrate Chinese New Year 2026 properly, here are traditional customs:
Things to Do
- Wear red clothes
- Give red envelopes
- Eat lucky foods
- Stay positive
- Keep lights on at night
Things to Avoid
- Avoid cutting hair on New Year’s Day
- Do not sweep on the first day (may sweep away luck)
- Avoid arguing
- Do not use negative words
Chinese New Year 2026 Around the World
Chinese New Year is not only celebrated in China. It is widely observed in:
- Taiwan
- Hong Kong
- Singapore
- Malaysia
- South Korea
- Vietnam (Tet Festival)
- United States
- United Kingdom
Major cities like London, New York, and Singapore host large parades and cultural festivals.
Lantern Festival 2026 – End of Celebrations
The celebration ends on the 15th day with the Lantern Festival (March 3, 2026).
People:
- Light lanterns
- Solve lantern riddles
- Eat sweet rice balls (Tangyuan)
The Lantern Festival symbolizes unity and completeness.
Is Chinese New Year a Public Holiday?
Yes, Chinese New Year is a public holiday in China. Many businesses, schools, and offices close for about one week.
This period is known as the Spring Festival Holiday and is one of the largest human migration periods in the world, as millions travel to their hometowns.
How Long Does Chinese New Year 2026 Last?
Official public holiday: About 7 days
Traditional celebration period: 15 days
Preparation time: Starts weeks before the actual date
Chinese New Year 2026 Horoscope Insights
The Year of the Horse is expected to bring:
- Fast progress
- Strong leadership
- Energy and ambition
- Career growth opportunities
People born in Horse years (e.g., 2014, 2002, 1990, 1978, 1966) may experience major life changes in 2026.
Difference Between Lunar New Year & Chinese New Year
Many people use both terms interchangeably.
- Chinese New Year refers specifically to celebrations in China.
- Lunar New Year is a broader term used in multiple Asian countries that follow the lunar calendar.
FAQs – Chinese New Year 2026
1. When is Chinese New Year 2026?
Chinese New Year 2026 begins on February 17, 2026.
2. What animal represents 2026?
2026 is the Year of the Horse in the Chinese zodiac.
3. How long does Chinese New Year last?
The festival lasts for 15 days, ending with the Lantern Festival.
4. Why does the Chinese New Year date change every year?
Because it follows the lunar calendar based on moon cycles.
5. What is the main tradition of Chinese New Year?
Family reunion dinners, red envelopes, fireworks, and lion dances.
6. Is Chinese New Year a public holiday?
Yes, it is a major public holiday in China and several other Asian countries.
7. What colors are lucky in 2026?
Red, green, and purple are considered lucky colors for the Year of the Horse.
Conclusion
Chinese New Year 2026 will begin on February 17, welcoming the energetic and powerful Year of the Horse. This important festival focuses on family, prosperity, traditions, and fresh beginnings. From reunion dinners and red envelopes to fireworks and lantern festivals, the celebrations are vibrant and meaningful.
Whether you are celebrating in China or anywhere else in the world, Chinese New Year 2026 is a time to reflect, reconnect, and welcome good fortune for the year ahead.
