Chinese New Year begins on February 17, 2026, under the intense and transformative energy of the Fire Horse. According to astrologer Ludovica Squirru, each Chinese zodiac sign must adopt specific attitudes to make the most of a year driven by action, courage, and change.
Chinese New Year—also known as Lunar New Year—marks the beginning of a new cycle based on the lunar calendar and the twelve signs of the Chinese zodiac. Unlike the Western calendar, this transition is not just a date on the calendar: it represents preparation, cleansing, and energetic alignment.
In 2026, the ruling sign is the Fire Horse, a powerful combination that appears only once every 60 years. It symbolizes momentum, determination, speed, and radical transformation. For Ludovica Squirru, the key is not only the official start date, but the mindset adopted during the days leading up to it and the first weeks of the cycle.
The Fire Horse energy: move forward or fall behind
The Fire Horse does not tolerate stagnation. It pushes for decisions, demands the release of old burdens, and rewards those who move with intention. “The horse’s energy doesn’t wait,” Squirru warns. Anyone who wants to “ride” this year must prepare both internally and externally.
Before addressing each sign individually, the astrologer highlights four universal actions:
- Empty out: clear physical spaces, schedules, and mental clutter.
- Go deeper: real change must be internal, not superficial.
- Open up to others: energy flows best through connection and exchange.
- Visualize: focus on small, concrete goals that bring motivation and direction.
From this foundation, each sign faces a specific challenge.
What Each Chinese Zodiac Sign Should Do in the Year of the Fire Horse
Rat
Clarify priorities and reduce distractions. Focus will be essential to avoid burnout.
Ox
Let go of excessive control. This year demands flexibility and fast adaptation.
Tiger
Channel intensity strategically. Not every battle needs to be fought impulsively.
Rabbit
Step out of the comfort zone. The Fire Horse encourages long-postponed decisions.
Dragon
Ease self-pressure and move steadily. Consistency will matter more than quick wins.
Snake
Trust intuition—but act on it. Thinking without execution will lead nowhere.
Horse
Avoid exhaustion from constant acceleration. Balance speed with sustainability.
Goat
Strengthen self-confidence. Make independent choices without overreliance on others.
Monkey
Organize ideas and commitments. Creativity is favored, but discipline is required.
Rooster
Listen more and soften rigidity. The Fire Horse rewards mental openness.
Dog
Step into leadership roles. The year supports visibility and decisive action.
Pig
Close unfinished chapters. Emotional lightness and clarity in relationships are key.
A new cycle built on intention and action
Chinese New Year 2026 does not invite passivity. The Fire Horse calls for movement, clarity, and commitment, both personally and professionally. For those seeking growth, career changes, or new challenges, this cycle encourages releasing what no longer serves and investing energy where it truly matters.
Preparing before February 17 is not symbolic—it is a practical way to align mindset, focus, and action in a year that, according to the Chinese zodiac, moves fast and rewards those ready to ride it.
