In 2026, Lunar New Year lands on February 17 on the Gregorian calendar, with the incoming year marking the Year of the Fire Horse. 

Below is an overview of what this traditionally signifies, along with how Lunar New Year is celebrated through food in China and across the Chinese diaspora worldwide. 

The symbolism of the fire horse 

The Chinese zodiac consists of 12 signs — rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, goat, monkey, rooster, dog, and pig — as well as five elemental variations: wood, fire, earth, metal, and water. 

Together, these create a complete zodiac cycle that spans 60 years. 

The horse is the seventh sign in the 12-year cycle. The most recent Year of the Horse was the Wood Horse, which spanned most of 2014 and the beginning of 2015. 

People born in the Year of the Horse are traditionally described as personable, energetic, and charismatic, with an adventurous spirit that balances independence and sociability. The fire element amplifies these traits, representing a more confident, passionate, and bold expression of the horse. 

What does this mean for 2026?

Under the sign of the Fire Horse, 2026 represents new beginnings and renewal, while also encouraging decisive action, openness to opportunity, and personal growth and transformation. 

Dishes and recipes for celebrating Lunar New Year at home 

Lunar New Year is closely tied to food traditions, with specific dishes prepared to symbolize hopes and aspirations for the year ahead. Common themes include prosperity, good fortune, and longevity. 

Dumplings are among the most iconic Lunar New Year foods. Often prepared together as a family, they are made in large batches and symbolize wealth and prosperity. 

They are typically filled with minced meats, aromatics, and finely chopped vegetables such as scallions, though fillings vary widely. Pork and pork-and-shrimp are common, alongside chicken, vegetarian, and regional variations. While dumplings can be made at home, many families also rely on high-quality frozen options available at Asian grocery stores. 

Dipping sauces are easily customized, with popular combinations including: 

• Soy sauce, black vinegar, and chili crisp 
• Ponzu — add in grated ginger for more aromatics 
• Sesame oil, garlic, and scallions 

Dumplings are often accompanied by garnishes such as sesame seeds, sliced cucumbers, or pickled radish, which add contrast and balance. 

Noodles are another important Lunar New Year food, particularly “longevity noodles,” which symbolize health, good luck, and a long life. They may be served in broth or stir-fried and are distinguished by their long, unbroken strands. Just make sure to not cut them or bite them halfway through — tradition holds that they should not be cut, as their length represents longevity. 

Nian gao, or rice cake, is also commonly enjoyed during the holiday. Made from glutinous rice, it is most often sweet, though savory regional variations exist. Basic preparations include glutinous rice flour, water, and sugar, with additions such as dates, chestnuts, or other ingredients depending on regional preference. 

Beyond these full dishes, oranges, tangerines, and other tasty round citrus fruits are another part of Lunar New Year. Their round shape and names in Mandarin are associated with luck and success. 

Lastly, whole fish — usually steamed — is often a traditional element of Lunar New Year in China, with regional customs varying widely. Its symbolism of surplus and abundance makes it closely associated with prosperity and good fortune for the year ahead, and in some traditions, portions of the fish are intentionally left unfinished until the new year has begun. 

Whether you celebrate at home or as part of a larger gathering, New Year is a time to surround yourself with loved ones, start fresh, and share your wishes and hopes for the future. 

For those preparing to celebrate, Uwajimaya is proud to offer the ingredients and inspiration needed to honor these traditions.