Lunar New Year celebration in East Toronto will welcome the Year of the Horse

Lunar New Year is today (Tuesday, Feb. 17), and celebrations will be taking place this month in East Toronto.
As part of the festivities this month to welcome the Year of the Horse, Toronto’s East Chinatown will hold its annual Lion Dance and Parade on Saturday, Feb. 28.

The parade starts at noon at the Zhong Hua Men Archway on Gerrard Street East, just west of Broadview Avenue. The event is organized by the Chinese Chamber of Commerce of East Toronto, and will see the lion parade through the area visiting local businesses.

Lunar New Year is the beginning of the new year based on the lunar calendar and is celebrated around the world. It begins with a new moon, and while some traditions are shared throughout different countries, each has celebrations that reflect the cultural identity of places such as China, Vietnam, Korea, Singapore, and Malaysia.

Saying goodbye to the Year of the Snake, 2026 is the Year of the Horse by the Chinese zodiac.

The Horse embodies enthusiasm and speed, and brings a year focused on bold moves and exploration. There are 12 zodiac signs: Mouse, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig.

Those born in the Year of the Horse are often seen as natural leaders who are lively, charming and adventurous. Birth years for the Year of the Horse are 1930, 1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002, 2014, and 2026.