Chinese New Year 2026: Date & Year of the Horse Explained

“Chinese New Year 2026”, “Lunar New Year 2026 dates”, or “Year of the Horse 2026”, here’s everything Australians need to know — clearly explained and easy to plan around.

When Is Chinese New Year 2026?

Chinese New Year 2026 begins on Tuesday, 17 February 2026 in Australia.

The celebrations don’t last just one day. Traditionally, Lunar New Year festivities continue for 15 days, ending with the Lantern Festival in early March.

2026 Is the Year of the Horse

The Year of the Horse 2026 is expected to symbolise:

• Energy
• Independence
• Confidence
• Fast progress
• Strong ambition

In Chinese zodiac tradition, people born in the Year of the Horse are believed to be adventurous, charismatic and determined.

Previous Horse years include:

• 2014
• 2002
• 1990
• 1978

The next Horse year after 2026 will be 2038.

What Is Lunar New Year?

Many Australians use the terms Chinese New Year 2026 and Lunar New Year 2026 interchangeably.

Technically:

• “Chinese New Year” refers specifically to Chinese cultural traditions.
• “Lunar New Year” is broader and includes celebrations in Vietnam, Korea, Singapore and other Asian communities.

The date changes every year because it follows the lunar calendar, not the Gregorian calendar.

Chinese New Year 2026 Celebrations in Australia

Australia hosts some of the largest Lunar New Year festivals outside Asia.

Sydney

Sydney’s Lunar New Year Festival is one of the biggest in the world, featuring:

• Dragon boat races
• Lion dances
• Fireworks
• Lantern displays

Melbourne

Melbourne’s Chinatown becomes the heart of celebration with:

• Cultural performances
• Food markets
• Traditional ceremonies

Brisbane & Perth

Community parades, temple visits, and multicultural festivals are expected across major cities.

Traditions of Chinese New Year

Here’s what typically marks the beginning of Lunar New Year:

• Red envelopes (hongbao) with money
• Lantern displays
• Family reunion dinners
• Cleaning homes before New Year’s Day
• Firecrackers and dragon dances

Red is considered a lucky colour during the celebration.

Is Chinese New Year a Public Holiday in Australia?

Chinese New Year is not a national public holiday in Australia.

However, it is widely celebrated in cities with strong Chinese-Australian communities. Some schools and businesses may hold cultural events.

Quick Facts for Searchers

• Chinese New Year 2026 Date: 17 February 2026
• Zodiac: Year of the Horse
• Duration: 15 days
• Public Holiday in Australia? No
• Major Celebrations: Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane

Why “Chinese New Year 2026” Is Trending

Searches spike every year for:

• When is Chinese New Year
• Chinese New Year 2026 dates
• Lunar New Year 2026
• Year of the Horse 2026
• Chinese New Year Australia events

Australians are increasingly planning travel, restaurant bookings, cultural events, and school activities around the date.

when is chinese new year 2026 australia

chinese new year 2026 dates

lunar new year australia events

year of the horse 2026 meaning

chinese new year celebrations sydney

chinese new year public holiday australia

lunar new year festivals melbourne