Dunbar Middle School usually sits quiet on Saturdays, but this past weekend was different. Drums echoed through the halls. Red dragon costumes swept across the gym floor. For the 33rd time, the Southwest Florida Chinese Association brought the community together to celebrate Lunar New Year on January 31.
Lunar New Year marks the start of a new zodiac cycle on the Chinese lunar calendar. Every year, the date shifts on the Gregorian calendar. This time, everyone welcomed the Year of the Horse. It officially begins February 17, but the group decided to celebrate early so people could enjoy Valentine’s Day too.
What is the Year of the Horse?
The Chinese Lunar New Year in 2026 kicks off the Year of the Fire Horse, running from February 17, 2026, to February 5, 2027. This isn’t just any new year; Fire Horse only comes around once every 60 years. It’s a rare blend of fire’s energy and the Horse’s drive, setting the stage for a year that surges with momentum and change.
Let’s talk about what this all means. The Horse stands for passion, freedom, and a powerful sense of independence. Fire only adds fuel, more intensity, more drive, and a real push to break through limits. People expect 2026 to move fast. It’s a year for bold moves, taking risks, and chasing big rewards. Of course, that kind of energy brings some unpredictability too. The Fire Horse is famous for shaking things up, sometimes in ways that challenge old habits and push people to break barriers.
For families, a baby born in the Fire Horse year is said to be independent, charismatic, and adventurous, someone who isn’t afraid to carve their own path.
A few dates matter most. Lunar New Year falls on February 17, 2026, kicking off a 16-day celebration that wraps up with the Lantern Festival. Astrologers are especially excited this time: the year starts and ends with a total lunar eclipse, casting an extra layer of significance over 2026.
If you’re into lucky signs, Fire Horse years favor red and green, and lucky numbers are 2, 3, and 7. The last time the world saw a Fire Horse year was 1966. Now, sixty years later, it’s back, ready to shake things up all over again.
Southwest Florida Chinese Association
Jerry Pong Wingma founded the Southwest Florida Chinese Association more than three decades ago. His goal is to keep Chinese culture alive in a place where the Chinese community remains relatively small. Back when he started the association, it had fewer than 50 members. Saturday’s event drew hundreds.
After the performances, people lined up for traditional Chinese snacks, including spring rolls, sesame balls, and of course, fortune cookies. The spirit of the new year filled the room.
For more information, contact swfchinese.org.
