Watch my video here: Chinese New Year 2026.
Chinese New Year 2026. On 17 February 2026, the Year of the Horse begins according to the Chinese calendar. The year runs until 7 February 2027. The Horse is the seventh animal in the twelve-year cycle of the Chinese zodiac and stands for energy, optimism and movement. 2026 is the Year of the Fire Horse.
Characteristics of the Horse
The Horse symbolizes:
- Optimism and cheerfulness
- A spirit of adventure
- Passion and energy
- Speed and efficiency
The core theme of this year is action. Everything is in motion and the pace is high. The Horse wants to move forward, explore new paths and seize opportunities. This is a period to carry out plans, make decisions and no longer postpone ideas. Freedom, courage and decisiveness play an important role.
At the same time, this year calls for conscious action. Enthusiasm can turn into recklessness. Those who combine speed with focus can make significant progress.
Chinese New Year 2026: A Year of Progress
The Year of the Horse is a time to move ahead. It is a moment to express what has long been on your mind and to turn dreams into concrete steps. Everything is in motion. Energy, speed and freedom are central themes. Ideas that have been on hold can now be put into action. This is a suitable time to:
- Start new plans
- Stop postponing important decisions
- Turn dreams into reality
- Speak out about what truly matters
The Year of the Horse is seen as a time to take meaningful steps forward.
The Fire Horse
Fire is the fixed element of the Horse and strengthens the qualities of this sign. This brings extra energy, passion and determination.
Fire Horse represents:
- Strong will and determination
- Great enthusiasm
- Perseverance
- Temperament
The Fire Horse is brave and direct. It avoids traps and leaps over obstacles. However, it can also be impulsive and hot-tempered. That is why it is important to channel energy in a focused way.
What Does This Mean for 2026?
The Year of the Horse invites movement. It is a period in which speed, decisiveness and courage are rewarded. Those who recognize opportunities and dare to act can make real progress.
In short: 2026 is a year not to stand still, but to take action, with focus, courage and enthusiasm.
Video: Opening of the National Celebration in The Hague on 14 February 2026
The celebration of the Year of the Horse was officially opened on 14 February 2026 in the Atrium of the Stadhuis Den Haag in The Hague.
This marks the 24th edition of the National Chinese New Year Celebration. For the first time, Chinese New Year in The Hague is being celebrated on two separate dates.
In this video, you can see the official opening ceremony, featuring traditional dragon and lion dances and performances by artists from China and Chinese associations. There is also a Chinese cultural market where visitors can experience different aspects of Chinese culture.
This opening marks the start of the new lunar year: a year defined by energy, movement and new opportunities.
Video: Parade in Chinatown The Hague on 21 February 2026
On 21 February 2026, Chinese New Year was celebrated in a vibrant way in Chinatown Den Haag. After the official opening at Rabbijn Maarssenplein by Mayor Jan van Zanen, the colorful parade with lion and dragon dances moved through the streets of Chinatown.
In this video, you can watch the highlights of the parade: the traditional dances, the rhythm of the drums, and the festive atmosphere among the crowd. Along the route, fireworks were set off in front of shops, after which the lion dance blessed the businesses and their owners with wishes for prosperity in the new year.
