Celebrating the new year is a simple process for many people across the country. You get together with family and friends, maybe host a party, and watch the ball drop. However, there is another New Year celebration that many people observe. In the Middle East, East Asia, and Southeast Asia, some communities celebrate a holiday known as the Lunar New Year. This holiday marks the new year based on the lunar calendar rather than the Gregorian calendar.

This year, Lunar New Year falls on February 17, 2026. Each year is also represented by a zodiac animal. The zodiac follows a 12 year cycle, and 2026 is the Year of the Horse. The horse is often associated with speed, freedom, and energy, which some believe can symbolize a year of quick decisions and major progress.

Every year, my family celebrates Lunar New Year. I wanted to learn more about what it means to the people closest to me, so I asked my sister a few questions.

Q: What do you think of Lunar New Year?
A: I think Lunar New Year is a very important tradition. Holidays like this allow us to take pride in our culture and spend time with family and friends.

Q: What is your favorite tradition?
A: My favorite tradition is probably getting the red envelope with money inside, but I also enjoy seeing family, of course.

One of the most well known traditions of Lunar New Year is receiving a red envelope with a small amount of cash inside. Many kids who celebrate Lunar New Year look forward to it each year, and I am no different.

Q: How has Lunar New Year affected you personally?
A: Learning and understanding different parts of our culture is really important to me. I think Lunar New Year helps me understand who I am and who my family is.

Lunar New Year is important to me for the same reason. I love getting together with my siblings and cousins to celebrate. Sometimes we bring cards, and other times we play board games. No matter what we do, the best part is the feeling of family and community that this holiday brings.