A new year has arrived, and with it comes the turning of the Chinese zodiac cycle. The Horse is a key part of the system as it represents the seventh animal out of the 12 signs, and 2026 is set to embrace the animal's free, independent, forward-moving energy.
The Year of the Horse is exciting for many reasons, but most of all being its focus on new beginnings. Bringing with it a spirit of ambition and personal growth, this year promotes the idea of making bold decisions and taking swift, decisive action.
Ramping up the intensity, 2026 is not just the Year of the Horse but the Year of the Fire Horse, meaning traits associated with the sign are amplified by passion and urgency to make things happen.
To fully understand how we can make the most of the astrological opportunities carried by this fresh zodiac year, we asked the experts to explain what the Year of the Horse really means and how to maximise it.
What does the Year of the Horse mean?
Ranking seventh in the order of the 12 Chinese zodiac animals, the Horse is known for its dynamic and energetic nature. People with this sign were born in the years including 2026, 2014, 2002, 1990, 1978, 1966, 1954, 1942. It comes after the Snake and before the Goat.
This sign is associated with bountiful qualities that inspire success and good fortune, making 2026 a great year to chase your goals with confidence and speed. Forget overthinking and dive headlong into knowing you have the good luck of the Horse behind you, full force.
Leading UK expert in Chinese astrology and award-winning feng shui consultant, Janine Lowe, told us at HELLO!: "This year, it is the year of the Yang Fire Horse, filled with passion, vitality, and courage. A year where making bold decisions will set you free. You need to be willing to take risks, but it will be worth it.
"2026 is a year to embrace change and when opportunities appear, take them, as the energy of the year favours those who dare. Globally, Horse years bring innovations, dramatic shifts, and moments that reshape the world. Expect big announcements that rarely happen."
She continued: "Overall, the Year of the Horse works for people who have ambition and love visibility - it’s not for the wallflower."
© Getty ImagesIs the Year of the Horse lucky in 2026?
Officially unleashing itself on 17 February 2026, the Year of the Fire Horse is tipped to be one of the luckiest yet due to the symbolic meaning of the animal in Chinese culture.
Standing for vitality, speed, strength, success and freedom, the Horse is thought to bring with it good fortune for anyone eager to seize opportunity and propel their lives forward.
Fellow Chinese astrology expert and teacher of astrology, Denise O'Dwyer, works with entrepreneurs and professionals looking to create more success in their lives. She explained why this year is lucky.
"All Horse years are strong fire element years in the Chinese Zodiac, and 2026 is a double fire year. Fire is the element of joy, passion, visibility, love, spirituality, and happiness. The last time we had a double fire Horse year was 1966. That was the year England won the World Cup, The Beatles released Revolver, London was at the height of the Swinging 60s and pop culture was flourishing."
Which signs will this year affect the most?
For five of the zodiac signs, this year will be particularly special. According to Denise, these include:
- Horse
- Dog
- Tiger
- Rat
- Sheep
She explained why these signs are due to encounter an abundance of success as the calendar rolls through the months of 2026. The expert revealed: "People born in the Year of the Horse, this is your year. You will be the centre of everything. Enjoy the spotlight all year long.
"Tiger and Dog, this is also a big year for you. You are in partnership with the year. Opportunities for cooperation, new friends, alliances, and exciting opportunities with others will flourish.
"Rat people, change is coming. Harness the year to make the move you’ve been thinking about. Sheep, step forward now. It’s been a while since you took the limelight and this year you can share some of the Horse’s glow."
Royal predictions for 2026
While we love watching what the British royal family gets up to each year, for some senior members, 2026 could be turbulent and filled with emotional change.
Janine revealed which members should expect to see some shifts in their lives and said: "King Charles, born in 1948, and Prince Harry, born in 1984, are both Rats, which is the clash for the year. They should expect massive changes between June 6 and July 6 in their lives! This will be a turbulent year for these two!
"Prince William and Princess Kate, born in 1982, are both Dogs. They may need extra emotional support this year. Travel seems to be on the cards for these royals!"
She continued: "Queen Camilla was born in 1947, the year of the Pig, so she can expect a year of heightened visibility and meaningful responsibility. She will also need emotional strength to support the King."
© Getty ImagesHow can we make the most of this lucky year?
There are a few ways we can mentally and physically prepare for the year that's in it and make sure we are reaping its lucky benefits.
Denise advised that "if you have sensed change or desire for new horizons, take action now and the energy of the Fire Horse year will carry you forward".
She added: "Most of all have fun, follow the fire, seek the joy, find laughter in everything, take chances with your heart, and fall in love again."
Janine offered some practical advice to anyone looking to maximise the opportunity brought about by the Horse. She said: "Wearing red is a good start. Move with intention, courage, and heart - this is not the year to be a wallflower."
The expert went on to list some tips and tricks, which included:
- Seize all opportunities and don’t overthink
- Strengthen relationships, both personal and collaborative, in business
- Celebrate milestones and enjoy life
- Take the chance to reinvent yourself by updating your lifestyle, both in the home and in your career.
