Chinese New Year 2024: Discover Your Chinese Zodiac Sign

Chinese New Year 2024 and the Zodiac Animals

The Chinese zodiac, known as shengxiao (‘born resembling’), comprises 12 zodiac animals, including the Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig.

The Chinese zodiac years commence and conclude with Chinese New Year, usually falling in January or February. Each year in the 12-year zodiac cycle is associated with a specific zodiac animal, each possessing unique attributes.

In 2024, we enter the Year of the Dragon, starting from February 10th, 2024, and concluding on January 29th, 2025. This zodiac cycle plays a significant role in Chinese culture, influencing beliefs about horoscopes, personalities, and love compatibility based on one’s birth year.

Discover Your Chinese Zodiac Sign

To determine your Chinese zodiac sign, consult the calendar of Chinese zodiac years. For example, if you were born in 1991, your sign is the Goat. Chinese New Year or the Start of Spring can mark the beginning of a zodiac year, with most people favoring Chinese New Year as the starting point.

Chinese Zodiac Signs’ Personality Traits

Each zodiac animal is associated with specific characteristics:

• Rat: quick-witted, resourceful, versatile, kind.
• Ox: diligent, dependable, strong, determined.
• Tiger: brave, confident, competitive, unpredictable.
• Rabbit: quiet, elegant, kind, responsible.
• Dragon: confident, intelligent, enthusiastic.
• Snake: enigmatic, intelligent, wise.
• Horse: animated, active, energetic.
• Goat: calm, gentle, sympathetic.
• Monkey: sharp, smart, curious.
• Rooster: observant, hardworking, courageous.
• Dog: lovely, honest, prudent.
• Pig: compassionate, generous, diligent.

Lucky and Unlucky Things for 12 Chinese Zodiacs

Chinese zodiac signs also have lucky and unlucky associations:

Rat Zodiac

• Taboos for Numbers: 0, 5
• Lucky Numbers: 2, 7
• Lucky Colors: Black, Blue, Grey
• Auspicious Directions: North
• People born in the Year of the Rat are naturally intelligent and energetic, adaptable, and sociable, leading to good interpersonal relationships. However, due to their ambitious and profit-oriented nature, they may become impulsive and face troubles due to their competitive spirit. Rats usually have good financial and career luck in the Dragon, Monkey, and Ox years. However, challenges may arise in the Rat, Rabbit, Goat, and Rooster years, affecting health and wealth. Choosing the right direction and goals with confidence will lead to a smooth journey.

Ox Zodiac

• Taboos for Numbers: 3, 8
• Lucky Numbers: 0, 5
• Lucky Colors: Yellow, Orange, Brown
• Auspicious Directions: Northeast, Southwest
• People born in the Year of the Ox are known for being solid, passionate, honest, and frugal. They are conservative, sincere, and dedicated, leading a colorful life through hard work. Challenges and waiting periods may occur, but experiences gained during the wait can lead to opportunities and a fortunate life. Oxen often enjoy good luck in the Snake, Rooster, and Rat years but may face challenges in the Ox, Goat, Horse, Dog, and Dragon years.

Tiger Zodiac

• Taboos for Numbers: 4, 9
• Lucky Numbers: 3, 8
• Lucky Colors: Cyan, Green, Jade
• Auspicious Directions: East, Southeast
• People born in the Year of the Tiger are loyal and courageous, with a forceful personality, making them popular but potentially offending others unintentionally. Tigers may encounter challenges in the Tiger, Monkey, Snake, and Pig years, facing health issues. However, they often experience smooth outcomes in the Dog and Horse years and good financial fortune in the Rabbit year. It is advised to endure difficulties or consider a change in character for better luck.

Rabbit Zodiac

• Taboos for Numbers: 4, 9
• Lucky Numbers: 3, 8
• Lucky Colors: Cyan, Green, Jade
• Auspicious Directions: East, Southeast
• People born in the Year of the Rabbit are meticulous, humble, and careful, making them likable and supportive. However, their sensitive nature may lead to emotional fluctuations affecting health and relationships. Marriage may face challenges, requiring resilience and self-protection. Rabbits often enjoy good luck in the Goat, Pig, and Dog years, but may encounter difficulties in the Rabbit, Rooster, Rat, Dragon, and Horse years.

Dragon Zodiac

• Taboos for Numbers: 3, 8
• Lucky Numbers: 0, 5
• Lucky Colors: Yellow, Orange, Brown
• Auspicious Directions: Northeast, Southwest
• People born in the Year of the Dragon have a strong sense of justice and bravery but may be stubborn, especially during entrepreneurial stages. Listening to others’ advice, especially from elders, can bring great benefits. Dragons often have financial luck in the Monkey, Rat, and Rooster years but may face challenges in the Dragon, Dog, Rabbit, and Ox years.

Snake Zodiac

• Taboos for Numbers: 1, 6
• Lucky Numbers: 2, 7
• Lucky Colors: Red, Peach, Purple
• Auspicious Directions: South
• People born in the Year of the Snake are efficient, with high intelligence and charm. Emotional disturbances may affect their fortune and career, so caution is needed in dealing with relationships. Snakes usually enjoy good luck in the Rooster and Ox years, career advancements in the Monkey year, but may face setbacks in the Snake, Pig, and Tiger years. Staying true to oneself and navigating challenges leads to family happiness in old age.

Horse Zodiac

• Taboos for Numbers: 1, 6
• Lucky Numbers: 2, 7
• Lucky Colors: Red, Peach, Purple
• Auspicious Directions: South
• People born in the Year of the Horse are naturally brave and diligent with a strong sense of responsibility. Avoiding collaboration with Rats (conflict), Oxen (harm), and other Horses (conflict) is advised. Horses are creative and may experience highs and lows, requiring careful choices. Good luck often comes in the Tiger, Goat, and Dog years, while challenges may arise in the Horse, Rat, Ox, and Rabbit years.

Goat Zodiac

• Taboos for Numbers: 3, 8
• Lucky Numbers: 0, 5
• Lucky Colors: Yellow, Orange, Brown
• Auspicious Directions: Northeast, Southwest
• People born in the Year of the Goat are generally gentle, kind, and sympathetic but also shrewd and calculating. Facing difficulties in youth, careful career choices are necessary to avoid future troubles. Avoiding deception in the workplace is crucial. Goats may encounter challenges in the Goat, Ox, Dog, and Rat years but may see improvement in midlife, achieving success. Good financial luck is likely in the Pig and Rabbit years but may face difficulties in the Goat, Ox, Dog, and Rat years.

Monkey Zodiac

• Taboos for Numbers: 2, 7
• Lucky Numbers: 4, 9
• Lucky Colors: White, Apricot, Gold, Silver
• Auspicious Directions: West, Northwest
• People born in the Year of the Monkey are intelligent, quick-witted, and talented but may face challenges due to lack of experience. Finding a supporter to guide them can help overcome difficulties. Monkeys often have a smooth journey in the Rat, Dragon, and Snake years but may feel exhausted in the Monkey, Tiger, and Pig years.

Rooster Zodiac

• Taboos for Numbers: 2, 7
• Lucky Numbers: 4, 9
• Lucky Colors: White, Apricot, Gold, Silver
• Auspicious Directions: West, Northwest
• People born in the Year of the Rooster are reliable, with strong comprehension and outstanding talent, leading a relatively smooth life. However, their occasional anger and stubbornness may affect health, so improving health conditions is essential for career and family prosperity. Roosters usually enjoy good luck in the Ox and Snake years, significant improvement in the Dragon year, and challenges in the Rooster, Rabbit, Dog, and Rat years.

Dog Zodiac

• Taboos for Numbers: 3, 8
• Lucky Numbers: 0, 5
• Lucky Colors: Yellow, Orange, Brown
• Auspicious Directions: Northeast, Southwest
• People born in the Year of the Dog are naturally diligent, honest, and straightforward, working hard throughout their lives. Due to their excellence, they may face jealousy and obstacles, requiring discernment in social relationships. Dogs often enjoy great luck in the Tiger, Horse, and Rabbit years but may face challenges in the Dog, Dragon, Ox, Goat, and Rooster years.

Pig Zodiac

• Taboos for Numbers: 0, 5
• Lucky Numbers: 2, 7
• Lucky Colors: Black, Blue, Grey
• Auspicious Directions: North
• People born in the Year of the Pig are steady, kind-hearted, but lack a defensive mindset. Initial lack of experience may lead to misunderstandings in the early career. Developing personal principles and avoiding undue influence is crucial. Pigs often have financial luck in the Rabbit and Goat years but may face challenges in the Pig, Snake, Monkey, and Tiger years. Adaptability to changes is key to turning challenges into opportunities.

Chinese Zodiac Compatibility

Zodiac compatibility plays a crucial role in Chinese culture, influencing romantic relationships and marriages. Before tying the knot, people often check the compatibility between their zodiac signs.

Zodiac Sign Dragon: The Most Popular Sign

The Year of the Dragon is particularly significant, and a popular folk saying highlights its allure. While superstitions persist, it’s essential to recognize the varied dynamics of different zodiac sign combinations.

Year of Dragon 2024 Predictions

In 2024, Monkeys, Roosters, and Pigs are predicted to be the luckiest zodiac signs. Challenges may arise for Dragons, Goats, Dogs, Oxes, and Rabbits due to opposing Tai Sui.

Year of Dragon Baby Meanings

The dragon holds a unique and revered position in the Chinese zodiac, representing power, authority, and mythical prowess.

The Mythical Dragon in the Chinese Zodiac

The dragon, the only mythical creature in the Chinese zodiac, possesses extraordinary abilities such as soaring through clouds and manipulating the universe. Its image is deeply rooted in ancient Chinese culture, where emperors considered it a sacred symbol of authority.

Origins of the Dragon

• The dragon is associated with the Earthly Branch “辰,” representing time and celestial bodies.
• In ancient times, legends tell of dragons being raised during the era of Pangu creating the world.
• The dragon’s image, though mythical, has real-world connections, such as dragon horns from deer and dragon heads from cattle.

Evolution of the Dragon’s Symbolism

• Dragons were initially revered by the elite, symbolizing power and divine authority.
• Over time, the dragon’s significance spread across various regions, each depicting unique attributes and powers.
• Archaeological findings, such as at the Xishuipo site, reveal dragons participating in the funerals of the highest rulers.

Dragon’s Integration into Everyday Life

• The Han Dynasty marked a shift as dragons became associated with royal authority.
• The philosophical debate over the dragon’s role in the zodiac arose during this period.
• As nomadic cultures influenced Chinese society, the dragon transcended its exclusive connection with royalty.

Dragon as a Cultural Symbol

• Dragon imagery adapted to the aesthetic preferences of nomadic tribes, with the Xiongnu even naming their capital “Dragon City.”
• The introduction of Buddhism led to the dragon’s incorporation into Buddhist mythology, exemplified by the Eight Immortals.

Dragon Celebrations and Folk Traditions

• Dragon dances, dragon play, and dragon lantern festivals became integral to Chinese New Year celebrations.
• Dragon dances evolved, with intricately crafted dragon heads and vibrant performances symbolizing good fortune.
• Folk traditions, such as the “Dragon Raises its Head” festival, showcase the dragon’s influence on weather beliefs.

Dragon’s Role in Modern Society

• Today, the dragon remains a symbol of reverence, but its inclusion in everyday life reflects a blend of awe and entertainment.
• Dragon dances continue to be a cherished tradition during the Chinese New Year, symbolizing auspicious beginnings.

Best Birth Months for Dragon Babies in 2024

1. March

Dragon babies born in March 2024 are considered chosen ones, with a very auspicious destiny. They are accompanied by good luck throughout their lives. With their arrival, family fortune improves, and the bond between parents deepens. These children are hardworking and diligent from a young age, excelling in academics. They contribute to their family’s well-being and are considered as the family’s little lucky stars.

2. April

Those born in April 2024 have hidden wealth in their destiny. Despite financial challenges early in life and a less favorable family background, they can build wealth through their own efforts, bringing significant changes to their lives and their family’s. April-born Dragons are proactive and determined, facing challenges with resilience. Their hard work pays off, leading to substantial rewards. Overall, April-born Dragons have a favorable destiny.

3. June

Dragon babies born in June 2024 are obedient and healthy in childhood, bringing simplicity to parenting. As they grow up, they continue to be easy to raise, excelling academically without much effort. In their careers, they stand out, achieving outstanding performance. These Dragons may venture into entrepreneurship, ensuring a secure future for their parents. They are both wealthy and filial, making them valuable assets to their families.

4. July

People born in July have extraordinary qualities, standing out in society and gaining attention and admiration. They possess determination and positive values, working hard to achieve their goals independently. Even with good fortune, they don’t rely on others, knowing that true success comes from their efforts. Their efforts translate into abundant rewards, making their lives successful in various aspects.

5. September

Dragon babies born in September have strong comprehension and analytical thinking skills. They are adept at learning and working, with a broad knowledge base. These Dragons value recognition and not only strive for their own development but also uplift those around them. They have good financial luck, seizing opportunities without facing many hardships, leading a comfortable life.

6. December

Those born in December have exceptional intelligence, excelling in both literary and martial pursuits. They are like flying dragons in the sky, attracting attention and achieving remarkable success. December-born Dragons receive support from influential people, enjoying a smooth career and financial prosperity.

Best Lunar Months for Dragon Babies in 2024

1. Lunar February

Dragon babies born in Lunar February 2024 are talented in various fields, excelling both in academics and physical pursuits. They have a bright future with support from benefactors, ensuring a successful career and a harmonious family life with many children.

2. Lunar March

March-born Dragons are strong-willed and talented leaders, earning respect and admiration. They assume leadership roles in their careers, receiving support from both superiors and subordinates. Their capabilities lead to significant success in their endeavors.

3. Lunar April

April-born Dragons have a prosperous and influential life. They are ambitious and achieve fame and fortune. With great determination and talent, they make a mark in their chosen fields, often contributing to societal development.

4. Lunar July

Dragon babies born in Lunar July attract attention with their outstanding qualities. They stand out in the crowd, gaining favor and support from many. Despite external advantages, they maintain a strong work ethic, ensuring success in all their endeavors.

5. Lunar December

December-born Dragons possess high intelligence and thoughtful minds. They excel in academics and pursue respectable careers. With good financial luck, they easily seize opportunities and lead a comfortable and successful life.

The fate of Dragon babies varies based on their birth months, both in the Gregorian and Lunar calendars.”

Chinese Zodiac Story: Origin and Order

The fixed sequence of the 12 zodiac animals is explained through a myth about the Jade Emperor selecting guards. The story includes interesting details about the order and why the Cat is not part of the zodiac.

The Twelve Chinese Zodiac is also known as the Twelve Year Beasts. In the Chinese calendar, there are twelve beasts that take turns being in charge, so our Chinese New Year uses the Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig in the calendar. The Twelve Chinese Zodiac originated in the 6th century BCE, initially associated with the Earthly Branches, and later became the year numbers in the calendar.

The Story of 12 Chinese Zodiac Animals

In fact, there has been a folk story passed down through generations. It is said that in the past, Buddha summoned all the animals to attend a grand animal meeting, and the twelve animals that arrived first would become the twelve year symbols. On the day of the meeting, the Rat arrived earliest, so it is ranked first in the cycle, followed by the Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig. The Pig arrived last, hence it is the last in the twelve-year cycle.

Why there is no cat in the 12 Chinese Zodiac?

Another chapter of this story explains why cats and mice became enemies. Back then, cats and mice were good friends. Before going to the grand meeting, they agreed to wake each other up the next day. However, the Mouse woke up early and quietly went to the meeting without waking up the Cat. When the Cat woke up and arrived at the meeting, Buddha had already assigned the twelve symbols. Since then, the Cat and Mouse became sworn enemies.

In ancient China, based on the time of animal appearances and their characteristics, twelve animals were chosen as the Chinese Zodiac, with each animal representing a two-hour time period. The Rat is associated with the first time period (11:00 PM to 1:00 AM, known as the “Zi” hour). During this time, rats are most daring and active, so it is paired with the “Zi” hour.

The order continues as follows:

• Ox: 1:00 AM to 3:00 AM (“Chou” hour), known for slow and comfortable chewing.
• Tiger: 3:00 AM to 5:00 AM (“Yin” hour), the most active and fierce time for tigers.
• Rabbit: 5:00 AM to 7:00 AM (“Mao” hour), associated with the quiet time before sunrise.
• Dragon: 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM (“Chen” hour), linked to the mythical time of dragon-induced rain.
• Snake: 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM (“Si” hour), when snakes are less harmful and hidden in grass.
• Horse: 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM (“Wu” hour), as horses stand and rest during the peak of the sun.
• Goat: 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM (“Wei” hour), known for frequent urination during this time.
• Monkey: 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM (“Shen” hour), when monkeys make loud and long calls.
• Rooster: 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM (“You” hour), when roosters return to their coops.
• Dog: 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM (“Xu” hour), the time when dogs are most alert and vigilant.
• Pig: 9:00 PM to 11:00 PM (“Hai” hour), when pigs sleep deeply and snore loudly.

Of course, these are legends, and folklorist Guo Licheng suggests that people used animals to remember the names of heavenly stems and earthly branches.

Differences between Chinese Zodiac and Western Astrology

While both systems involve 12 symbols based on birth time, they differ in origin and astrological theory.

Both systems share a common foundation by organizing individuals based on their birth time into 12 symbols, each associated with distinct personalities and fortunes. However, notable disparities exist in their origins and astrological principles.

The Chinese zodiac derives its 12 signs from ancient contemplations on archetypal animals, intertwining human characteristics, fortunes, and the intricate relationships between these elements and birth years. In contrast, Western astrology anchors its 12 zodiac signs to the positions of constellations relative to Earth. These constellations, named in alignment with Greek mythology, contribute to the development of astrological theories, emphasizing the perceived influence of stars on human personalities and destinies.

Moreover, the Chinese zodiac operates on a year-to-year basis, while the Western zodiac aligns with “months.” This fundamental difference underscores the unique approaches each system takes in interpreting and categorizing individuals based on celestial influences.

Chinese Zodiac in Other Asian Countries

The influence of the Chinese zodiac extends across various Asian countries, including South Korea, Japan, Vietnam, Singapore, Thailand, and Myanmar. While some countries share identical zodiac signs with China, others feature variations in the animals associated with the zodiac.

In the Chinese zodiac, the 12 animals, in order, are: Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig. Notably, these animal signs remain consistent in South Korea, North Korea, Singapore, and Cambodia.

Similarly, Japan follows the same sequence with its 12 zodiac animals: Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Boar. In Vietnam, the order includes Rat, Buffalo, Tiger, Cat, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig.

Thailand’s zodiac comprises Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Naga (a mythical half-human-half-snake spirit), Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig. Meanwhile, the Burmese zodiac features eight animals: Garuda (a mythical bird), Tiger, Lion, Elephant (with tusks), Rat, Guinea Pig, and Dragon.

In summary, the Chinese zodiac is a rich tapestry of beliefs, influencing various aspects of life across different cultures and nations in Asia.

FAQ for Chinese New Year 2024