How the Chinese zodiac works

• There are 12 animal signs that repeat every 12 years.
• The zodiac year starts on Lunar New Year, not January 1.
• Each sign is paired with a five-element cycle, creating a 60-year pattern.

The Chinese zodiac follows the lunar calendar. That means the zodiac year flips on Lunar New Year, which usually lands in late January or February.

If you were born around that window, your sign can change depending on the exact date.

The five elements (Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, Water) rotate alongside the animals. This gives each year a unique element flavor.

The full cycle repeats every 60 years, so a Fire Horse year only shows up once in that span.

Not really. Every sign has strengths and blind spots. The interesting part is how the sign fits your goals, timing, and relationships.

2026 is a Fire Horse year. The zodiac year begins on Feb 17, 2026.

Use your birth date and see both your animal and element.

Browse the traits and home notes for each animal sign.