TAYLORVILLE — The Lunar New Year, commonly referred to as the Chinese New Year, highlights Chinese astronomical animals and elements. With 12 signs and five elements, certain combinations only arrive once every 60 years. In 2026, celebrants will recognize the Fire Horse with celebrations that begin on February 17.
Chinese astrology assigns a year with one of the 12 zodiac animals paired with one of the five elements: metal, wood, water, fire, or earth. As these elements complement and clash, it is believed they promote order, harmony and balance in the natural world.
The Chinese lunisolar calendar is based on a sexagenary (60-year) cycle of “ganzhi,” which means “stems and branches.” Although the last Year of the Horse was in 2014, that was a Wood Horse. We haven’t seen a Fire Horse since 1966. The combination of fire and horse can bring about certain effects.
According to Sinocultural, the horse has earned a distinguished place in the Chinese Zodiac through legendary speed and unwavering endurance. Horses were indispensable in ancient Chinese society and representative of power, nobility and ambition. China Highlights says Chinese astrology asserts that personality and luck are determined by both zodiac sign and 12-year cycle element. The fire element provides warmth, enthusiasm, connection, and creativity.
For the Fire Horse, the element modifies the animal’s trait. Fire Horses are said to be strong-willed, proactive and lively. They can handle various problems simultaneously and they thrive on challenges, succeeding in the face of adversity. According to myNEWS, The Year of the Fire Horse is expected to be full of breakthroughs, rapid changes and innovations. People are encouraged to chase their dreams this year as many opportunities await. A Fire Horse allegedly burns everything to rebuild, so the year could be tumultuous in the name of progress.
