It’s the Lunar New Year on February 17 – and we’re about to enter a season that’s all about momentum, optimism and vitality.
That’s because it’s a “Fire Horse” year. In the Lunar calendar, each year is assigned both an animal and an element. The combination for 2026 – the fast-moving Horse with the intensity of Fire – will bring us an exciting energy we haven’t felt in a decade, that is doubled because the Horse itself is already associated with Fire.
“Changes and transformations happen quickly in a Fire year, and we’re eager to bring change to make the world a better place,” says Chinese astrology and Feng Shui expert Vicki Iskandar. “A lot of us are tuning [into] that Fire energy of hope and passion.”
The Lunar New Year is also traditionally a time to exchange gifts. If you’re looking for something to embody this year’s spirit of excitement and new potential, look no further than an OLG INSTANT ticket. These scratch cards, which include LUNAR 8, MILLIONAIRE MULTIPLIER and CASH FOR LIFE, are all about in-the-moment excitement, that blood-pumping suspense of instantly revealing whether you’ve won – exactly the energy of a Fire Horse year. Nothing kicks off a year of transformation like a possible lottery win!
As for what you might spend any potential prize winnings on? We asked some experts for the new beginnings that might be in store for 2026, based on your zodiac sign, including some more gifting inspiration to share the joy this new year.
The Rat
Years of birth: 1924, 1936, 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008, 2020
Because the Rat and the Horse are opposites, this year heralds some major changes in your life. But it’s not doom and gloom, we promise. “A clash year is usually the most challenging, but also a transformative and pivotal year,” says Iskandar. “As a Water sign, the Rat is very much capable of controlling the Horse’s Fire, but it won’t be easy.” If you put in the work, you’ll see results, just keep it slow and steady.
According to Paul Ng, a Richmond-Hill-based Chinese geomancer and philosopher, this year, the Rat will excel in human resource and managerial roles. Long-term investments will also pay off, but he recommends avoiding risky financial ventures.
What to gift the Rat: Treat the Rats in your life to a journal or daily affirmation cards so they can keep track of what’s inspiring them and what they wish to leave behind.
The Ox
Years of birth: 1925, 1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009, 2021
Get your Oscars acceptance speech ready, Ox, because a big break on the career front may await. Not to mention your love life could also heat up. That’s thanks to the Peach Blossom star, which “brings visibility and popularity as well as more romance for the Ox,” says Iskandar. “You can carry a charm or symbol of the Horse with you or display it in the South sector of your home to boost your love luck.”
If you suffer from health issues relating to digestion, Ng suggests you take extra care this year. “There is a need for caution when it comes to health,” he says.
What to gift the Ox: Keep the good vibes going by gifting them an online streaming service to create their dream motivational playlist, suggests astrologist and Feng Shui expert Jen Ingress.
The Tiger
Years of birth: 1926, 1938, 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010, 2022
This is your time, Tiger. After an erratic 2025, because your sign is an ally of the Horse, you’ll find yourself achieving personal and professional goals. “This is a huge year of action for the Tiger. There’s nothing impossible the Tiger can’t take on, but this year is even more so,” says Ingress, who reminds us that with the ups may come some downs. “Sometimes to have clarity, there has to be things that burn down before the phoenix rises from the ashes.”
Also worth remembering: Love conquers all. “Your relationships will be strong this year, particularly with close friends and family,” says Ng, noting that Tigers may find themselves getting married or engaged. Already partnered up? Expect more harmony on the homefront, he says.
What to gift the Tiger: Making memories with loved ones means a lot to Tigers, especially in the Year of the Horse. Make them a vision board kit where they can plot out their 2026 plans.
The Rabbit
Years of birth: 1927, 1939, 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999, 2011, 2023
Keep calm and carry on, Rabbit. “While it may feel like things are difficult at first, with persistence and patience, the Rabbit will see positive changes,” says Ng. “The ‘Peach Blossom’ star will bring many romantic opportunities, though caution is needed in dealing with misunderstandings and gossip.” The same goes for workplace chatter too, he adds.
As for what will inspire you? “The Horse will ignite the Rabbit’s creativity to another level,” says Iskandar. Which means it’s time to sign up for that acting class or write that novel you’ve been putting off.
What to gift the Rabbit: Because the Year of the Horse is a social one for the rabbit, gift them some shared experiences such as tickets to a concert or an indulgent spa day. (Even better if you go together.)
The Dragon
Years of birth: 1928, 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012, 2024
Dragons may face their share of highs and lows as well as increased spiritual energy in 2026, explains Ng, due to their favourable relationship with the Horse. While often lone wolves, at least when it comes to work, the “Peach Blossom” luck of the year will make Dragons very attractive socially. “There is an abundance of social connections, and your natural charm will attract admirers. However, be cautious of misunderstandings or emotional conflicts in relationships,” adds Ng.
The key to success? Prioritize balance above all. “Take extra care in daily activities to avoid injuries. A balanced lifestyle, including regular exercise and proper nutrition, will keep you strong throughout the year,” says Ng.
What to gift the Dragon: Dragons are creative souls, so indulge them with activities that harness that energy such as art classes, improv or drama classes, suggests Ingress.
The Snake
Years of birth: 1929, 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, 2013, 2025
The Year of the Horse could be lucrative for this Zodiac sign. “This year brings a strong financial fortune for Snakes, particularly in investments and wealth-building activities,” says Ng. That includes both traditional and speculative investments, he adds, noting to “avoid rushing into decisions and be cautious with risky financial moves.”
Remember, play hard, but take care of yourself. The Peach Blossom star is pushing the Snake into the spotlight. “Your personal relationships, whether romantic or platonic, will flourish. However, health challenges could interfere with your ability to fully enjoy these connections,” says Ng.
What to gift the Snake: Give them the gift of downtime with a gift card for a massage. (If you’re their partner, even better if you plan a couples’ massage for that quality time the Snake needs.)
The Horse
Years of birth: 1930, 1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002, 2014, 2026
It’s your year – and Horse, it’s time to rise to the occasion. “A lot more is being asked of you,” says Ingress, noting this could mean more competition or feelings of restlessness. Adds Iskandar: “It’s one of the most transformative, life-changing years of one’s life. It doesn’t mean it will be easy, but the Horse has your back.”
When it comes to your love life, the Horse is the most passionate of the 12 Chinese zodiac signs. This year you can expect a lot of attention, especially if you’re single.
What to gift the Horse: With so much opportunity on the horizon, it’s time to think big! Gift them a beautiful notebook where they can journal their dreams for the year ahead, and reflect on them when they come true.
The Goat (also known as the Sheep/Ram)
Years of birth: 1931, 1943, 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003, 2015
The Horse and the Goat are best friends, which means good fortune generally awaits the Goat in 2026. (Particularly those born in 1931 and 1991.) “Generally, for the Goat, the Year of the Horse is very comfortable for them,” says Iskandar. How should the Goat make the most of this opportunity? “Identify the Horses in your life – these are the people who will be most helpful to you in 2026,” she adds.
On the career front, it looks like Goats are also going to nail their performance reviews this year. Keep your eyes open for growth opportunities at the office. “Those in management roles will see opportunities for power and authority. Self-employed individuals may consider expansion, while salaried workers can expect career advancements,” says Ng.
What to gift the Goat: Help them indulge in a little self-care with a beautiful candle or afternoon at the movies to help them embrace the small moments of pleasure in life.
The Monkey
Years of birth: 1932, 1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004, 2016
The Monkey is a secret friend to the Snake so it’s coming off a great 2025. As for 2026? “Growth will continue…although the Monkey will often feel out of its comfort zone,” says Iskandar. That’s not necessarily a bad thing. “The Monkey may have a lot of fun this year and feel more social,” adds Ingress. “But be careful of burnout.”
When it comes to relationships, focus on the loved ones you might have overlooked in the past years. “Your social connections will be more favourable outside the home. Unmarried individuals may experience an ordinary romantic journey, while married couples should focus on communication.” says Ng.
What to gift the Monkey: Monkeys have an interest in automobiles, so why not treat them to a one-day exotic car rental, or tickets to your local racetrack?
The Rooster
Years of birth: 1933, 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005, 2017
Call your publicist, Rooster. “It’s a lovely Peach Blossom year for the Rooster, so it’s great year to work on strengthening your image and reputation,” says Iskandar. Adds Ng: “The Rooster will benefit from the presence of the ‘Literary Star’ making this a year of analysis and study,” he says. “The ‘Star of General’ will also enhance your authority and leadership. Relationships will be more fruitful, especially with elders.”
As for career, “this is a great year for analytical work such as computer programming, mathematics, and scientific research,” says Ng. “Those involved in the wedding industry will also thrive.”
What to gift the Rooster: Opt for something practical the Rooster will surely appreciate as they navigate this stage, like a session with a life-coach, dietician, naturopath or financial planner, suggests Ingress.
The Dog
Years of birth: 1934, 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006, 2018
It’s a Dog’s life in the Year of the Horse as these two signs are close allies. “The Dog will benefit from the Horse this year, as both zodiacs form a harmonious relationship,” says Ng. “Socially, the Dog will find themselves in the right places at the right time, making many new connections and having various opportunities open up.”
Be sure to lean on your relationships at work and at home. The Horse belongs to the Fire alliance, which is comprised of the Horse, the Tiger, and the Dog; new bonds and alliances will be forged in 2026 especially if you’re one of these signs. Last but not least. Remember, anxiety is not intuition. “Focus on grounding yourself and balancing your mental clarity with physical well-being,” says Ng.
What to gift the Dog: Loyal with a keen sense of justice, the Dog wants life to be fair for all their friends. Give them a subscription to a newspaper or a current events magazine so they can stay abreast of the action.
The Pig
Years of birth: 1935, 1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007, 2019
Pat yourself on the back for getting through 2025. (Your sign is opposite the Snake, which made for a topsy turvy year.) Coming into the new year, “restraint is the keyword for you in 2026. Take it slow and steady,” says Iskandar, noting that transformative change awaits, but it won’t be without its ups and downs. “The Pig will experience a year where travel and expansion are favoured. However, you may also face considerable challenges. Patience and persistence are key to overcoming obstacles, especially in your career and personal life,” says Ng.
That emphasis on travel filters through to your love life and career, adds Ng. “Financial success will come from active engagement, especially in sectors that involve travel or external business dealings,” he says, noting that love could also blossom on the road or via long-distance relationships.
What to gift the Pig: Yoga classes are a great way to help the Pig to slow down. After all, says Ng, this year is about “taking care of your physical well-being and avoiding rushing into things. Ensure adequate rest and take breaks when needed.”
