Year of the Horse Kicks Off Global Lunar Novel Year Celebrations

The Lunar New Year, beginning on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, marks the transition to the Year of the Horse, a sign associated with energy, progress, and optimism. Celebrations are underway worldwide, with major events planned in cities like New York and Columbus.

Festivities in New York City

New York City will host its 28th annual Lunar New Year Parade and Festival in Chinatown on Sunday, March 1, 2026. The parade will stream live on ABC 7 New York, starting at 1:00 p.m., and will proceed along Mott St and Canal St, through Chatham Square, East Broadway, and ending near Forsyth and Grand Streets.

The celebration will feature floats, bands, and performers representing diverse communities and cultures. Festival booths will be set up along Bayard Street starting at 11:30 a.m. The event is organized by Better Chinatown USA and commemorates the first day of the Year of the Fire Horse, which began on February 17th.

Columbus Celebrates with Events and Offers

Columbus, Ohio, is also embracing the Lunar New Year with a range of events and offers. The celebrations run from February 17th to March 3rd, culminating in the Lantern Festival.

• Panda Express Tradition: Panda Rewards members can participate in the Excellent Fortune Scratcher Instant Win Game through February 16th for a chance to win prizes, including an $888 gift card.
• Lunar New Year Celebration at Dublin Recreation Center: A celebration on Saturday, February 7, 2026, will include food, games, performances, raffles, and traditional Chinese musical instruments and heritage dances.
• IFI Lunar New Year Celebration: International Friendships (IFI) will host a Lunar New Year celebration on February 20, 2026, from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm.

The Significance of the Year of the Horse

The horse is the seventh of the 12 Chinese zodiac animals. Each year is also associated with one of the five elements: metal, water, wood, fire, and earth. In 2026, it is the Year of the Fire Horse.

“The Lunar New Year is a time-honored family holiday to welcome good fortune and a long, healthy life, and also make lots of noise to scare away a legendary sea monster that would bring the opposite of that.”

ABC7NY.com

Those looking to maximize their luck during the Year of the Horse are advised to be aware of certain taboos during the Chinese New Year!.

FAQ

• When does the Lunar New Year begin in 2026? The Lunar New Year begins on Tuesday, February 17, 2026.
• What animal represents 2026? 2026 is the Year of the Horse.
• Where can I watch the NYC Lunar New Year Parade? The parade will stream live on ABC 7 New York on March 1, 2026, starting at 1:00 p.m.

Pro Tip: Don’t miss the firecracker festival commemorating the first day of the Year of the Fire Horse!

The Lunar New Year is a vibrant and meaningful celebration, offering a chance to embrace tradition, welcome good fortune, and connect with communities around the world.