Year of the Horse
Beginning Tuesday, February 17, 2026, Lunar New Year is celebrated for 15 days. It follows the lunar calendar from the new moon to the full moon. During this time, families and communities come together to honor traditions and welcome good fortune.
Common traditions include sharing meals, exchanging gifts, remembering ancestors, watching dragon and lion dances, lighting firecrackers, and giving lucky money, known as hongbao or lai see. Many people also enjoy special foods believed to bring luck and prosperity.
This year marks the Year of the Horse. It is often linked to confidence, independence, and moving forward. It is also a time to reflect on new beginnings and look ahead with hope.
Join the San José Public Library for free, family-friendly events. Explore books and resources that celebrate Lunar New Year traditions, stories, and culture.
Happening at SJPL
Lion Dance Performances
Lunar New Year Celebration
Recommended Reads
Recipes for the New Year
Staff Picks
SJPL Picks: Lunar New Year Celebration
Learn a Language
Share these New Year's wishes with family, friends, and neighbors.
Vietnamese
- Chúc mừng năm mới: "Happy New Year."
- Vạn sự như ý "Everything goes according to your wishes," or "May all your wishes come true."
Chinese (Mandarin)
- Xīnnián kuàilè 新年快乐: A more formal way to greet people during Lunar New Year.
- Xīnnián hǎo 新年好: Usually the first greeting during Lunar New Year that is said among Chinese people, replacing the normal greeting, "nǐ hǎo."
Chinese (Cantonese)
- Gong hay fat choy 恭喜发财: "Happiness and prosperity." Commonly used in Hong Kong, Guangdong Province, and nearby areas, and often heard in many Chinatowns.
Korean
- Seh-hahm-nee-dah 새해 복 많이 받으세요: A formal way to wish "Happy New Year".
- Seh-hahm-mah-nee 새해 맞이 축하합니다: An informal way to say "Happy New Year" or "Congratulations on the New Year."