When is Chinese New Year 2026? Date, Zodiac and Observance
Introduction: Why the date matters
Chinese New Year is one of the most widely observed festivals across East and Southeast Asia and among diaspora communities worldwide. Knowing when Chinese New Year 2026 falls is important for travellers, businesses, schools and anyone with family or cultural ties to the holiday. It affects travel, workplace schedules and community events, so clear information helps readers plan and prepare.
Main details
Date and zodiac
Chinese New Year 2026 falls on 17 February 2026. The festival marks the first day of the lunar new year and ushers in the Year of the Horse on the traditional Chinese zodiac cycle. The date varies year to year because it is determined by the lunisolar calendar: celebrations start on the new moon that appears between late January and mid-February.
Typical observances and customs
Across regions, households commonly clean and decorate their homes in the days before the new year, prepare special foods, and display red decorations intended to bring luck. Family reunions and the giving of red envelopes with money are central to the holiday. Public events often include lion and dragon dances, temple fairs and fireworks where permitted. Many observances continue through the Lantern Festival, which falls on the 15th day of the lunar month.
Practical impacts: travel and business
Chinese New Year is a peak travel period in countries with major Chinese populations. Rail and air travel typically see high demand in the days immediately before and after the new year, and many businesses—especially in mainland China, Hong Kong, Taiwan and Singapore—close or operate reduced hours for several days. International companies and local services that rely on staff from affected regions may also be disrupted. Readers planning travel or scheduling deliveries should book early and expect limited availability.
Conclusion: What readers should do
With Chinese New Year 2026 on 17 February 2026, planners should confirm holiday schedules with employers, schools and service providers. Travellers are advised to reserve transport and accommodation well in advance and to check local event listings if they intend to join public celebrations. For families and communities, the date provides an opportunity to observe customary traditions and to reconnect over the new lunar year.
