The Chinese Zodiac

Lunar New Year

It’s January which means it’s officially 2026, happy new year to all. This also means, in many western cultures, that the horoscopes begin again with Capricorn, the earth sign symbolized by a sea-goat. However, in many oriental cultures, it is not yet the new year: many follow the lunisolar calendar and, therefore, their new year begins during the month of February.

This also impacts their beliefs and traditions. A very popular and world-shared worship is that of the zodiacs (as we’ve seen with our own horoscopes), today I’m here to inform you on, specifically, the Chinese zodiacs and their meanings.

Chinese Beliefs

The Great Race is a tale told to many children within China as well as many Asian cultures, it differs depending on the person telling it, and has many versions that have evolved over time. But here is the most common and widespread version of the story:

In ancient China, the Jade emperor thought it wise to hold a race between all the animals to bestow upon them the title of zodiacs of the new calendar. They would have to cross a river and prove themselves. The rat rode on the back of the ox, taking first place and squealing with pride, the ox content with second place. The rowdy and passionate tiger crossed the finish line next, followed by the sensitive rabbit which had been aided by the calm and gentle dragon. The horse, having been slowed down and held onto by the snake, who “snaked” around his hood, came in seventh place after the serpent took the sixth. The ram , the monkey, and the rooster, all working together, crossed the finish line with relief, earning eighth, ninth, and tenth place respectively. The dog emerged as well from the river, having enjoyed a long soak and earned eleventh place. Finally, the last animal, the boar, made it to the end, belly full from a delicious distraction that slowed him down. And so, the emperor declared these twelve animals the official zodiacs, and held a grand banquet to celebrate.

Year of the Horse (2026)

This year, the lunar new year begins again on February 17th, announcing the year of the Horse! So what does this mean?

According to Chinese astrology, the horse is confident, agreeable, and responsible. They adore mental and physical exertion, and display patience. During the seventh rotation of the lunar calendar, those possessing the zodiac of the horse may experience harsh events, but also positive ones, throughout the year. Persistence is the key for breakthroughs, and self-care is important for long-term success. There is mention of steady financial practices as well, as it is said that they will aid with the achievement of this year’s goals.

12 year cycle example :

1997 : Feb. 7, 1997 – Jan. 27, 1998 = Year of the Ox

1998 : Jan. 28, 1998 – Feb. 15, 1999 = Year of the Tiger

1999 : Feb. 16, 1999 – Feb. 4, 2000 = Year of the Rabbit

2000 : Feb. 5, 2000 – Jan. 23, 2001 = Year of the Dragon

2001 : Jan. 24, 2001 – Feb. 11, 2002 = Year of the Snake

2002 : Feb. 12, 2002 – Feb. 18, 2003 = Year of the Horse

2003 : Feb. 1, 2003 – Jan. 21, 2004 = Year of the Goat

2004 : Jan. 22, 2004 – Feb. 8, 2005 = Year of the Monkey

2005 : Feb. 9, 2005 – Jan. 28, 2006 = Year of the Rooster

2006 : Jan. 29, 2006 – Feb. 17, 2007 = Year of the Dog

2007 : Feb. 17, 2007 – Feb. 6, 2008 = Year of the boar

2008 : Feb. 7, 2008 – Jan. 25, 2009 = Year of the Rat