17th February 2026 is the start of the new lunar year and this year is the year of the fire horse. In Chinese astrology an animal is paired with a natural element and the last time the year of the fire horse occurred was 60 years ago. In Chinese culture the horse can represent freedom, power, vitality and perseverance and when combined with fire it can also emphasise passion, leadership and breaking free from past constraints. Horses of all types have been important in many d