Lunar New Year 2026 began on February 17 and marks the first day of the several-day-long celebration. The new year is set on the second new moon after the winter solstice and marks the beginning of spring. The holiday follows the traditional lunisolar calendar, which originated in ancient China. This is why the celebration is often associated with Chinese culture despite being celebrated across Asia. The calendar is based on a mix of the moon’s phases and sun positions.
Each year has a specific zodiac determined by a cycle based on Chinese mythology; 2026 is the Year of the Fire Horse. The animal zodiac part comes from the foundational myth of the Jade Emperor’s Race, where the emperor held a swimming contest on his birthday to select the order and animals for the 12-year cycle: the Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig.
Each zodiac represents different characteristics, with the horse representing energy, speed, and passion. The element aspect comes from another cycle that follows wood, fire, earth, metal, and water, which also represents added characteristics to the zodiacs. The two cycles come together to create the Sexagenary Cycle, which lasts 60 years.
Everything in this holiday carries a symbolic meaning, reflecting values of Asian culture. One major theme is good fortune. Just as there are rituals for the Gregorian New Year on January 1st—such as kissing at midnight, eating 12 grapes under a table, or watching the ball drop—there are also rituals performed for Lunar New Year.
“We have noodles to signify long life, and every year we clean each part of our home to sweep out the bad luck for the new year,” says 6th grader Mei Ivanoff-Tzvetcoff. Other practices include a reunion feast with family and red envelopes with money inside that carry good wishes.
The color red is also a prominent theme in the celebration. It comes from the legend of Nian, a mythical lion-like beast who on New Year’s ate crops, livestock, and even people. An old man discovered that Nian could be scared away by the color red and loud noises. Red lanterns and scrolls decorate homes, and cracked bamboo was lit to ward off the beast. Lion and dragon dances are also performed to scare away monsters and evil spirits while also bringing luck, prosperity, and joy.
While Lunar New Year has ancient origins, it continues to thrive globally. In Miami’s Design District, they celebrate the start of the new year with lion dancers performing across the district. Lincoln Road had an Asian vendor market from February 14th to the 15th to also celebrate the holiday. “I love going to the dragon dances; it makes me feel good since there aren’t many Asians in Miami,” says 6th grader Libby Dean. Although Asians make up a very small percent of Miami’s population, events like these help to bring light to the unique culture.
More than just the start of a new year, Lunar New Year is a celebration of family, heritage, and new beginnings. From ancient origins to modern celebrations, the holiday welcomes new beginnings while keeping its deep historical roots.
