Each year, millions around the world welcome Lunar New Year—a time of renewal, tradition, and community celebration. In 2026, the holiday falls on February 17, marking not just a new year on the lunar calendar but the start of the Year of the Horse, a symbol of energy, freedom, and forward momentum. What Is Lunar …
Each year, millions around the world welcome Lunar New Year—a time of renewal, tradition, and community celebration. In 2026, the holiday falls on February 17, marking not just a new year on the lunar calendar but the start of the Year of the Horse, a symbol of energy, freedom, and forward momentum.
What Is Lunar New Year?
Lunar New Year is a spring festival that marks the beginning of the new year according to lunisolar calendars used in many parts of Asia. While the date shifts each year relative to the Gregorian calendar, it typically falls between late January and mid‑February.
Although commonly associated with Chinese New Year, the holiday is celebrated across China, Vietnam (as Tết), Korea (Seollal), Singapore, Malaysia, and beyond. Each culture brings its own unique traditions, though common themes include family reunions, honoring ancestors, and inviting good fortune for the coming year.
Traditional customs include:
- Reunion dinners with family on New Year’s Eve
- Cleaning the home to sweep away bad luck
- Decorating with red lanterns and banners symbolizing luck and prosperity
- Firecrackers and loud festivities, believed to scare away bad spirits
- Lion and dragon dances, parades, and temple visits
These practices evolved over centuries and carry deep cultural meaning tied to community, renewal, and hope.
The Year of the Horse — 2026
Each Lunar New Year is paired with one of the 12 animals of the Chinese zodiac, and 2026 is the Year of the Horse—specifically the Fire Horse, a rare and dynamic combination that only appears once every 60 years.
In Chinese astrology, the horse symbolizes:
- Energy, strength, courage, and freedom
- Optimism and perseverance
- Forward movement and adventure
It’s seen as a year for bold initiatives, passion, and progress—an opportunity to embrace change and chase new opportunities.
People born in Horse years (for example 1990, 2002, 2014) are thought to embody these spirited qualities, though astrology also suggests the year may bring intense energy and change for them.
Lunar New Year Celebrations in Surrey, BC
In Surrey, BC—with its vibrant multicultural communities—Lunar New Year is more than just a holiday; it’s a season of community‑building, learning, and joy. Here are some local events you can attend:
Museum of Surrey — Lunar New Year Celebration
- Saturday, February 21, 2026
- 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
- Museum of Surrey, Cloverdale
This free family festival celebrates the Year of the Horse with dragon dance teaching, poetry, tai chi demonstrations, storytelling, and performances from traditional and modern artists. It’s a great way to learn about Lunar New Year traditions and connect with local cultures.
Surrey Libraries — Lunar New Year Activities
Across several library branches in Surrey, free events include crafts, calligraphy, lantern‑making, trivia, scavenger hunts, and storytelling for all ages:
- Newton Branch (calligraphy, lantern crafts, face painting)
- City Centre Branch (trivia and family activities)
Other branches like Fleetwood and Semiahmoo also host celebrations throughout February.
Lion Dance at Elements Casino Surrey
On February 17 at 7 PM, enjoy a traditional lion dance performance at Elements Casino Surrey—a lively way to usher in the Year of the Horse and invite good fortune.
Why These Celebrations Matter
Lunar New Year celebrations in Surrey bring together people from Chinese, Vietnamese, Korean, and other communities to share food, art, music, and stories. They’re opportunities for cultural learning, mutual respect, and community cohesion—reminding us all that traditions can flourish and evolve in diverse cities.
Whether you’re joining a dragon dance lesson, crafting a lantern with your children, or simply enjoying the festive atmosphere, these events offer a meaningful way to welcome the Year of the Horse and the promise it brings.
Feel free to share this article or connect with local organizers to learn even more about events celebrating culture, heritage, and new beginnings this Lunar New Year!
