New Delhi: Chinese New Year, widely known as the Spring Festival, is one of the most important celebrations observed by Chinese and several East Asian communities across the world. Rooted in the traditional lunisolar calendar, it marks the beginning of a new year and unfolds across 15 vibrant days of family gatherings, rituals, and cultural performances. Each year is associated with a zodiac animal and one of the five elements, shaping symbolic meanings for the months ahead. In 2026, the Lunar New Year begins on Tuesday, February 17, and continues until March 3, culminating in the Lantern Festival.

Homes are decorated in red, streets come alive with dragon and lion dances, and families reunite over traditional meals that carry wishes of prosperity and harmony. From understanding the Year of the Fire Horse to learning the origins of the festival’s customs, here is a complete guide to Chinese New Year 2026, its dates, symbolism, and the traditions that define this globally celebrated occasion.

Chinese New Year 2026: Dates, Zodiac Sign and festive traditions Chinese New Year 2026 date

Chinese New Year follows the lunar calendar and usually falls between January 21 and February 20. In 2026, celebrations begin on February 17 and continue for 15 days, ending on March 3 with the Lantern Festival, which marks the first full moon of the new year.

Year of the Fire Horse

The year 2026 welcomes the Fire Horse in the Chinese zodiac cycle. The zodiac rotates through 12 animals combined with five elements such as wood, fire, earth, metal, and water. The Horse is traditionally linked with determination, energy, courage, and resilience. It will be followed by the Year of the Goat.

Origins of Spring Festival

Legends trace the festival back to the tale of Nian, a mythical creature believed to appear on New Year’s Eve. Villagers learned that loud sounds and the colour red frightened the beast. Over time, firecrackers, red decorations, and bright clothing became enduring symbols of protection and good fortune.

Family reunions and festive meals

The festival is centred on family unity. Reunion dinners feature symbolic dishes such as dumplings, rice cakes, and fish, each representing prosperity, progress, and abundance for the year ahead.

Lantern Festival

Public celebrations include lively lion and dragon dances believed to attract luck and drive away negativity. Elders gift red envelopes containing money as a gesture of blessing and prosperity. The festivities conclude with the Lantern Festival, when illuminated lanterns light up streets in celebration.

Chinese New Year 2026 reflects legend, symbolism, and family traditions within the 15 days of celebration. From the Year of the Fire Horse to the glow of the Lantern Festival, it marks renewal, hope, and shared joy.