Welcoming the Year of the Horse

Lunar and Chinese New Year celebrates the beginning of a new year on the traditional lunisolar calendar used in Chinese, East and Southeast Asian communities, and will take place on Tuesday 17 February this year. Festivities usually begin the evening before and last for fifteen days.

This year marks the ‘Year of the Horse’ – horses are seen as energetic, free-spirited and expressive. Find out more about the significance of the horse. 

How is this period typically celebrated?   

Millions of families and friends get together to feast, enjoy fireworks, wear special clothes and hang red lanterns. It's also traditional to gift a bright red envelope (known as hóngbāo or lì shì) to friends and family containing money inside to represent luck for the new year ahead. More information.   

Did you know?  

There is a tradition not to pick up a broom in case you sweep the good luck out of the door!  

How we’re celebrating at UoB and in the city 

Lunar New Year Concert 2026 
Wednesday 11 February, from 18:30 
Elgar Concert Hall, Bramall 

Join internationally renowned Chinese pianist Di Xiao and The Silk & Bamboo for a concert threaded with harmony and moonlight to welcome the new year of the Horse! Tickets cost £5. 

Year of the Fire Horse Celebration
Tuesday 17 February, 17:00-19:30
Prichatts Park Social Hub

Join your Residence Life team to take part in activities including lantern decorating, stained glass crafts andlive dance performances. Open to students living in UoB and partner site accommodation, make sure to bring your student ID!

Birmingham Lunar New Year Festival 
Sunday 22 February 

Co-produced by Birmingham Chinese Festival Committee and Birmingham Hippodrome, enjoy traditional and modern music, dance and theatre performances. There’s also fun for all the family with funfair rides, free face painting, fire crackers and more!