Giddy up! 2026 is the Year of the Horse in the Chinese zodiac, a once-every-60-years chance for this unbridled creature to take the reins.

The Year of the Horse begins at the Lunar New Year on February 17, 2026. The following is excerpted from The AstroTwins’ 2026 Horoscope book, available now.

The Year of the Horse: 2026 Chinese Zodiac

The Year of the Horse gallops in on February 17, 2026, at the Aquarius new moon, bringing with it 12 months of wild independence and trailblazing momentum, until February 6, 2027.

In Chinese astrology, the Horse is the zodiac’s untamed wanderer—magnetic, determined and happiest with the wind blowing through its tangled mane. The Horse thrives when chasing the horizon, but bristles at fences or rigid routines. Add the Fire element (years ending in 6 or 7) and it’s going to be hard to tame anyone’s spirit. (And why would you?) Old patterns can burn away in a flash, clearing the field for what feels urgent, alive and true. Take the reins of your own life and steer toward what excites you most. There won’t be much time for munching hay in the barnyard stalls in 2026!

No matter how unconventional your path may be, if your instincts say, ‘Hell, yes!’ then this is the year to blaze a trail forward against all odds.
– The AstroTwins

Themes for 2026: Year of the Horse

In Chinese astrology, what year is 2026? It’s the Year of the Horse! Here are the major themes of the Chinese horoscope for 2026. Because 2026 ends in a 6-year, the element for this Horse year is fire. The last Year of the Horse was 1966.

Gifts of the Fire Horse:
• Trailblazing energy and visionary leadership
• Rapid progress and momentum
• Passion-fueled creativity and charisma
• Collective breakthroughs through teamwork
• Fierce authenticity and independence

Challenges of the Fire Horse:
• Burnout from moving too fast
• Restlessness or difficulty committing
• Impulsive decisions and clashing egos
• Overthrowing structure before building new systems
• Learning to balance individuality with teamwork