Bergen County comes alive with Lunar New Year celebrations, ranging from family dinners at local Chinese restaurants to community festivals honoring centuries-old traditions. The festivities begin Feb. 17, 2026, ushering in the Year of the Fire Horse, one of the most dynamic signs in the Chinese zodiac.
Chinese New Year, also known as Lunar New Year, is the most important holiday in Chinese culture. Rooted in traditions more than 4,000 years old, the two-week celebration includes dragon dances, festivals and family gatherings where symbolic, “lucky” foods are shared.
Lunar New Year follows the lunar calendar and the Chinese zodiac, a 12-year cycle in which each year is associated with an animal and its defining traits. In 2026, the energetic Fire Horse takes center stage, signaling a year of movement, bold decisions and transformation.
To celebrate locally, consider visiting your favorite Chinese restaurant in Bergen County and enjoying auspicious dishes such as fish for prosperity, rice cakes for success, noodles for longevity and dumplings for wealth. Then read on to see what the Year of the Fire Horse may hold for your zodiac sign.
Rat
1912, 1924, 1936, 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008, 2020
Rats are intelligent, creative and highly organized. Quick-witted and resourceful, they often choose the safest possible path. This year, the impulsive Horse encourages Rats to take calculated risks. Trusting intuition may unlock new opportunities.
Ox
1913, 1925, 1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009, 2021
Reliable and hardworking, Oxen thrive in structure. Fire Horse energy introduces intensity into their orderly world. By remaining patient and open-minded, Oxen may find unexpected opportunities for growth.
Tiger
1914, 1926, 1938, 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010, 2022
Magnetic and independent, Tigers are natural risk-takers. Fire Horse encourages them to rise boldly—but success will depend on listening before leaping and balancing impulsivity with patience.
Rabbit
1915, 1927, 1939, 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999, 2011, 2023
Caring and tactful, Rabbits may feel challenged by Horse’s boundless energy. Still, this year brings opportunity. Prioritizing self-care will help Rabbits choose where to invest their time and energy.
Dragon
1916, 1928, 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012, 2024
Passionate and charismatic, Dragons thrive on transformation. Fire Horse fuels their desire for exploration but may also spark impulsivity. Strategic decision-making will be key.
Snake
1917, 1929, 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, 2013, 2025
Wise and intuitive, Snakes benefit from trusting their instincts. Fire energy provides momentum to act decisively, making this a strong year to launch long-held ideas.
Horse
1918, 1930, 1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002, 2014, 2026
Driven and independent, Horses feel at home in their own year. Fire Horse energy intensifies ambition, offering a chance to move past old obstacles and begin anew—if impatience is kept in check.
Sheep
1919, 1931, 1943, 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003, 2015, 2027
Nurturing and idealistic, Sheep are encouraged to take risks this year. Though uncomfortable at first, these steps may lead to deeper connections and recognition of their unique strengths.
Monkey
1920, 1932, 1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004, 2016, 2028
Adaptable and playful, Monkeys thrive amid change. Fire Horse may stir challenges, but focus and flexibility will help Monkeys navigate obstacles with ease.
Rooster
1921, 1933, 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005, 2017, 2029
Hardworking and honest, Roosters are encouraged to experiment. Stepping outside routine may shift long-standing boundaries and build confidence in their inner compass.
Dog
1922, 1934, 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006, 2018, 2030
Loyal and principled, Dogs are challenged to explore beyond comfort zones. Embracing Fire Horse energy may deepen friendships and spark personal growth.
Pig
1923, 1935, 1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007, 2019, 2031
Noble and generous, Pigs may feel unsettled by change. Fire Horse encourages them to explore hidden talents while staying grounded in joy and balance.
About the Author
Allison K. Lim is a Bergen County–based writer and editor and founder of Hungry Harvest Garden, a custom edible garden design and installation business. She also serves as chairman of the Ho-Ho-Kus Community Garden, a townwide initiative dedicated to reducing hunger through shared, organic produce.
"In 2026, the energetic Fire Horse takes center stage, signaling a year of movement, bold decisions and transformation."