Chinese New Year
2026 Year of the Horse
Happy Chinese New Year!
Light Up the Celebration
Colorful lanterns adorn the streets, symbolizing hope and prosperity for the new year.
Sparkling Fireworks
Fireworks light up the night sky, driving away evil spirits and welcoming good fortune.
Family Reunion
Cherished moments with loved ones, sharing meals and stories to celebrate together.
What is Chinese New Year?
Chinese New Year is also called Spring Festival. It is the most important festival in China. Families get together to celebrate.
Wearing new clothes for good luck
Exchanging red envelopes (Hongbao)
Family reunions and feasts
The Story of Nian
Long ago, there was a monster named Nian. Nian was scared of red, fire, and loud noises. People used these things to scare Nian away.
The color Red
Bright Fire
Loud Noises
Clean the House
Before Chinese New Year, people clean their houses. This is to sweep away bad luck and make room for good luck!
Decorate with Lanterns
Symbol of Good Luck
Red lanterns are a symbol of Chinese New Year. They are hung up to bring good luck and light.
Bright & Festive
They illuminate the night and create a joyful atmosphere for the celebration.
Red Envelopes (Hongbao)
Adults give children red envelopes with money inside. This is to wish them good luck and happiness.
Symbol of Good Wishes
Shared Joy & Blessings
Eat Delicious Food
Dumplings
Symbolize wealth, looking like ancient gold ingots.
Long Noodles
Represent a wish for a long and healthy life.
Sweet Oranges
Bring good luck and prosperity for the new year.
Dragon Dance
The dragon dance is a traditional performance. It is believed to bring good luck and prosperity.
The Chinese Zodiac
The Chinese zodiac has 12 animals. Each year is named after an animal.
Rat
Ox
Tiger
Rabbit
Dragon
Snake
Horse
Ram – sheep/goat
Monkey
Rooster
Dog
Pig
2026: Year of the Horse
2026 is the Year of the Horse! People born in the Year of the Horse are said to be brave, honest, and hardworking.
Brave
Honest
Hardworking
Horse Vocabulary
Let's learn some new words about horses!
Horse
Pony
Stable
Hay
Carrot
Gong Xi Fa Cai!
Happy New Year!
Xin Nian Kuai Le!