LIFE

Sprint into 2026: year of the fire horse

For many outside Chinese culture, the Horse year is often viewed as a global mood shift that emphasizes movement, freedom and rapid progress.

Marie Field-Faith
THE forecast reminds all to run fast, but with purpose.

What to expect in the Year of the Fire Horse

The Fire Horse will come blazing in

The Year of the Fire Horse does not arrive quietly. It comes blazing in, fast and bright, on 17 February bringing with it a rare surge of intensity not seen in six decades. For many outside Chinese culture, the Horse year is often viewed as a global mood shift that emphasizes movement, freedom, and rapid progress. Add the fire element and that spirit becomes even more dynamic, almost electric.

A marathon it is not, get ready to sprint

Patrick Lim Fernandez, principal at the Yin and Yang Shop of Harmony, describes this year as a year powered by double fire. The Horse is already a fire animal, making 2026 a unique convergence of speed, creativity and momentum. He approaches feng shui as an analytical system, not superstition and notes that this double fire combination historically ushers in breakthroughs, strong innovation and a social climate where independence thrives. Expect quick decisions, bold risks, and a pace of life that feels like a sprint rather than a marathon.

FENG shui expert Patrick Lim Fernandez.

A year of illumination and confrontations

With fire illuminating every corner, 2026 also pulls hidden issues into the light. Fernandez likens yang fire to the sun, revealing truths that have long been ignored. This means confrontations, heightened emotions, and moments when words come out faster than intended. It is a powerful year, but one that demands pacing and intention.

The luckiest zodiac signs in 2026

While every sign will feel the heat of the Fire Horse, five stand to benefit the most:

Tiger

Tigers regain momentum after a slower Snake year. Expect renewed confidence, swift opportunities, and expanded horizons. Romance also shines more brightly, with a magnetic pull that invites new connections and bolder paths.

THIS is your year to run wild and claim bigger horizons.

Dog

Dogs thrive in this social, action-driven year. They may receive recognition, creative boosts, or chances for further studies and travel. Friend of the Horse, they are set for a year of connection, although they should monitor their health.

Goat

A steady, harmonious year awaits Goats, who benefit from supportive figures, especially male mentors. Creative partnerships flourish and gentle progress strengthens confidence.

Horse

As the ruling sign, Horses move in perfect rhythm with the year. Freedom, travel, and professional growth expand, though balance is crucial to avoid burnout. This is their moment to lead with authenticity.

Dragon

Ambitious and powerful, Dragons ride the high energy of 2026 with ease. Career growth is strong, though they should choose battles wisely and prioritize human interaction over digital noise.

THE Dragon thrives in high energy — choose your battles wisely and let your leadership shine.

The rest of the zodiac

Sheep shine in collaboration and creativity.

Roosters see stability in relationships and a strong chance for commitment.

Pigs enjoy expansion and business growth.

Monkeys experience more travel but fluctuating moods.

Snakes must stay organized and lead with integrity to access their luck.

Rats reconnect with old friends and find joy in shared meals.

Oxen benefit from leadership roles but must avoid unnecessary conflicts.

Rabbits enjoy financial luck and charm but should resist temptations.

The Year of the Fire Horse calls for decisiveness, courage and thoughtful action. It is a year that rewards movement over hesitation and truth over comfort. Above all, it reminds us to run fast, but with purpose.