Subject
title
Proclamation Declaring Lunar New Year 2026
end
Department
City Clerk/Director of Council Operations Office
Recommendation
Staff recommends Mayor and Council read, approve, and present the proclamation to John Lin, Chair of the Rockville Asian Pacific American Task Force.
Discussion
The Lunar New Year is one of the most important celebrations of the year among East and Southeast Asian cultures, including Chinese, Vietnamese, and Korean communities. The Lunar New Year usually takes place at the end of January or the beginning of February and is predominantly celebrated by many Asian cultures. The Lunar New Year in 2026 falls on February 17, marking the beginning of the Year of the Horse, specifically the Fire Horse. Celebrations typically last for 16 days, concluding with the Lantern Festival on March 3, 2026.
People celebrate the Lunar New Year by visiting their relatives, and temples, and attending festivals
where they let go of the troubles of the past year and hope for a better new year. Celebratory
features of the Lunar New Year can also be seen in the forms of dragon and lion dances, firecrackers, pageantry, songs, games, food, and of course, the giving and spending of money. The Spring Festival marks a new year on the lunar calendar and represents the desire for a new life. Red is the main color for the festival, as red is believed to be an auspicious color. Red lanterns hang in the streets; red couplets are pasted on doors; banks and official buildings are decorated with red New Year pictures depicting images of prosperity.
The Lantern Festival marks the conclusion of the Lunar New Year and will fall on Tuesday, March 3, 2026. There are many different beliefs about the origin of the Lantern Festival; however, its roots date back more than 2,000 years. The Lantern Festival is the first major feast after the Lunar New Year. During the Lantern Festival, it is considered good luck to light and release a sky lantern, as many believe that they symbolize the worries from the previous year floating away.
Each Lunar New Year is associated with one of the 12 zodiac animals, each paired with one of the five traditional elements (Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water) in a 60-year cycle. This marks the start of the Year of the Fire Horse, which is significant as it occurs only once every 60 years.
The Year of the Fire Horse begins on February 17, 2026, and lasts until February 5, 2027. This year is significant as it marks the first occurrence of the Fire Horse since 1966. In Chinese astrology, the Horse is the seventh animal in the zodiac cycle, symbolizing energy, vitality, and perseverance.
Characteristics of the Fire Horse
• Energetic and Dynamic: The Fire Horse is known for its lively spirit and enthusiasm.
• Independent and Charismatic: People born in this year are often seen as warm-hearted and hardworking.
• Optimistic Outlook: The year is associated with opportunities and potential for growth, particularly in areas like technology and innovation.
Cultural Significance
In Chinese culture, the Horse symbolizes success and good fortune. The phrase "马到成功" translates to achieving success swiftly, reflecting the Horse's dynamic nature. Many people engage in traditions such as wearing horse-themed items to attract positive energy during this year.
Conclusion
The Year of the Fire Horse is expected to be a time of both excitement and caution. It encourages bold actions and personal growth while reminding individuals to navigate potential challenges with care.
Mayor and Council History
The Mayor and Council present this proclamation annually.
Public Notification and Engagement
The City of Rockville celebrates Lunar New Year by offering a free event that celebrates Rockville’s Asian cultures with performances, interactive displays, kids’ crafts, and to-go snack boxes (while supplies last). Organized in partnership with Rockville’s Asian Pacific American Task Force <https://www.rockvillemd.gov/147/Asian-Pacific-American-Task-Force>, the Lunar New Year celebration is a source of pride for the city’s Asian community and an educational opportunity for neighbors to learn about Asian culture.
When: Saturday, February 21, 2026
Time: 1:00 PM - 3:30 PM
Details: Performances from 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM
Where: Richard Montgomery High School
250 Richard Montgomery Drive
Rockville, MD 20852