The Year of the Snake starts this year on Wednesday 29 January 2025, the first day of the first month of the lunar (or lunisolar) calendar, with the Year of the Horse starting on 17 February 2026.
Instead of the Gregorian calendar, the lunar month is determined by the cycle of the moon and its alignment with Earth and the Sun. This means that depending on the length of time it takes for a full moon to appear, the month can last between 29 or 30 days, with 12 or 13 months in a year.

How is the zodiac determined?
The most common myth that explains the order of the animals that appear in the Chinese zodiac is one of The Great Race.
(20) The myth behind the Chinese zodiac – Megan Campisi and Pen-Pen Chen – YouTube
Why is Lunar New Year significant?
It is important to acknowledge that for some communities, Lunar New Year is celebrated at a different time of year, but we must also recognise that the traditional reference to Chinese New Year does not recognise all of the East and South East Asian (ESEA) communities who celebrate this auspicious day.
Each year, traditions are followed to have a ‘clean’ start to the new year; to avoid bringing any bad luck or misfortune into the new year. For many, this also includes checking to see whether your zodiac is likely to clash with Tai Sui (太歲 or 太岁), the Grand Duke Jupiter or Grand Commander of the Year, who governs your fortune for the coming year.
Tai Sui Explained: How and When to Pray (Plus Remedies)
Depending on whether your zodiac clashes that year, you may want to wear an amulet or follow other remedies to improve your fortune. The most important thing to remember is to never gift someone a watch or a clock as this is considered bad luck.
What to expect in the Year of the Snake: a visual guide
Lunar New Year for neurodivergent people
While this is an auspicious occasion and is a day to bring family together, it is also important to recognise that neurodivergent people may have limited social energy in their battery and may have sensory needs that should be respected. This can vary between each person but some things to think about:
- ◉ Consider the timeline of events and celebrations and schedule breaks in between gatherings, if possible.
- ◉ If they become overwhelmed with how busy it is, or the level of noise in a room, make sure there’s a quiet room or area to decompress.
- ◉ If needed, gently prompt your child or family with how to greet relatives they may not be familiar with and appropriate greetings to use.
- ◉ Remember to bring tools or toys that bring them comfort, whether this be stimming toys (tangle toys, magnets, hand rollers), noise cancelling headphones or a book.
- ◉ While wearing red is a lucky colour, work with the family member or child to find clothes that are comfortable for them to wear, and is not scratchy or stiff for example.
Wishing everyone a happy, prosperous and healthy Year of the Snake!