Highlights of Chinese New Year 2026

As the lanterns glow and the harbour lights shimmer, Hong Kong gathers tonight to welcome the Year of the Fire Horse with an air of excitement and anticipation. Once every sixty years, this rare zodiac sign gallops into our lives, bringing along a unique energy that resonates deeply within our culture, carrying with it the spirit of freedom, passion, and bold new beginnings. The Horse is not just a symbol of strength and vitality; it embodies the essence of adventure and the pursuit of dreams. With the fire element blazing brightly, this year promises not only creativity and courage but also an unstoppable momentum that encourages us to take risks and embrace change. Families come together, sharing joyful traditions, and igniting hope for new opportunities on the horizon. As fireworks light up the sky and joyous celebrations unfold, we are reminded of the fire horse’s ability to inspire resilience and determination in the face of challenges, allowing us to forge ahead with renewed vigor and optimism.

Together, under the crackle of fireworks and the rhythm of lion dances, we celebrate not only tradition but also the boundless energy of renewal that comes with the dawn of a new year. As families gather, laughter and joy fill the air, intertwining with the vibrant colors of red and gold that symbolize good fortune and happiness. The Fire Horse, embodying strength and spirited vitality, leads us into a year of prosperity, joy, and daring adventures that await on the horizon. With each burst of light in the night sky, we embrace the promise of new beginnings and the opportunity to forge unforgettable memories together. May we cherish the moments that bind us and look forward to the journeys that will shape our lives.

Hong Kong:

• Dazzling fireworks over Victoria Harbour with more than 31,000 bursts lighting up the sky.
• The famous night parade in Tsim Sha Tsui, featuring dragon dances, floats, and cultural performances.
• Sha Tin Racecourse hosts special horse races to honor the zodiac animal of the year.
• Traditional flower markets and temple rituals, including wishing tree ceremonies.

🎉 Traditional Customs for the Year of the Horse

• Reunion Dinner (年夜饭): Families gather on New Year’s Eve for a lavish meal. Dumplings (symbolizing wealth), fish (abundance), and rice cakes (growth) are staples.
• Red Envelopes (红包): Elders gift children and younger relatives money in red packets to bring luck and ward off evil spirits.
• Decorations: Homes are adorned with red lanterns, couplets, and paper cuttings featuring horses, fire motifs, and the character 福 (fortune).
• Temple Visits: Many visit temples to pray for prosperity, health, and success in the new year.
  🔥Fire Horse Energy
  The Fire Horse is rare and powerful, occurring only once every 60 years. It represents:
• Passion & Boldness: A year to take risks and embrace change.
• Creativity & Innovation: Perfect for starting new ventures or artistic pursuits.
• Momentum & Freedom: Horses symbolize movement—this year encourages travel, exploration, and breaking free from limitations.

🎆 Fireworks over Victoria Harbour (Feb 18, 2026)

• Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade: One of the most popular viewing points, right across the harbour with unobstructed skyline views.
• Central Ferry Pier: Offers a balanced perspective of both Kowloon and Hong Kong Island.
• Golden Bauhinia Square (Wan Chai): A local favorite, less crowded than Tsim Sha Tsui but still spectacular.
• Victoria Peak: For a panoramic bird’s-eye view of the entire harbour lit up with horse-themed fireworks.
  🐉 Cathay International Chinese New Year Night Parade (Feb 17, 2026)
• Tsim Sha Tsui (Nathan Road & Canton Road): The parade route is lined with floats, lion dances, and international troupes. Arrive early to secure a good spot.
• Cultural Centre Piazza: The starting point of the parade, buzzing with pre-show performances from 6pm.
  🌸 Flower Markets & Festive Spots
• Victoria Park Flower Market: The largest in Hong Kong, filled with lucky blooms like orchids and mandarin trees.
• Mong Kok Flower Market: A more local experience, perfect for picking up festive plants.
• Temple Street Night Market: Lanterns, street food, and fortune-tellers add to the festive vibe.

Let prosperity shine as brightly as the fireworks over Victoria Harbour, and may harmony and happiness stay with you throughout the year.

Wishing you a year of abundance, adventure, and boundless energy.