Advocacy
Lunar New Year
YEAR OF THE OX, 2021
Lunar New Year, or Spring Festival, is one of the most recognized holidays in the world. While some say it rivals the American New Years’ Eve, the essence of the holiday unveils a richer purpose.
In many countries across the globe, Lunar New Year marks the first day of the sacred lunisolar calendar (the first cycle of the moon in the first month of the year). With strong Asian roots, you may find great food, dancing, and joy. But, the Lunar New Year focuses on the importance of love (including self-love & health), spreading good luck, and time spent with loved ones.
The celebration can last up to 15 days in some countries. Each year, you will find an animal selected based on a 12-year cycle (view details below).
Animal and Corresponding Year
Ox (1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009, 2021)
The Ox symbolizes good fortune through hard work and pure grit. Patient and tireless, the Ox enjoys their rituals and loves routine. Although Oxen are good listeners, it’s difficult to change their minds. When things get chaotic, this is the sign you need by your side to help restore order.
Tiger (1938, 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010, 2022)
Rebellious, colorful, and unpredictable, the Tiger commands awe and respect. This fearless and fiery fighter is revered as the sign of a defender. The Tiger is always ready for action, but they can struggle with indecision. Late-night phone calls? A last-minute adventure hatched in a flurry of texts? That’s standard fare for the always-interesting, always-plugged-in Tiger.
Rabbit (1939, 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999, 2011, 2023)
The Rabbit is the soul of grace and sound advice. People born under this sign will lead a tranquil life, as they like avoid drama as much as possible. Instead, they love to surround themselves with beauty. Inclined to be moody, they can come off as detached to people who aren’t part of their inner circle.
Dragon (1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012, 2024)
The mighty and magnificent Dragon of ancient myth never ceases to enchant us. Dragon people are full of energy and strength. Life is a blaze of colors, and they are constantly busy. Eccentric and demanding, they never lack friends or admirers. It’s essential that they find a purpose or special mission in life. They need a cause to fight for, a goal to reach, or a right to wrong.
Snake (1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, 2013, 2025)
The Snake is introspective and can come off as a bit of a mystery at first. Some Snakes may appear detached or lost in their own world, but this is just how they operate. They’re highly intuitive and do not like to be rushed when analyzing a situation. Graceful and soft-spoken, Snakes naturally gravitate toward all the finer things in life.
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Horse (1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002, 2014, 2026)
People born in the Horse’s year are full of optimism and high energy, although their moods may cause them to have a hot temper. Intuitive and talkative, they can encourage even the shyest people to open up about their lives. As mentally quick as they are physically active, Horses have cunning social reflexes and handle pressure with ease.
Sheep (1943, 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003, 2015, 2027)
Sheep are known for their big hearts and commitment to helping others. Often shy, they’re commonly drawn to creative fields and outlets, such as art and fashion. Kind and compassionate, they have an inner determination that seems at odds with their gentle personality. When threatened, they can respond passionately and decisively, even though they detest fighting.
Monkey (1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004, 2016, 2028)
The Monkey is the sign of the inventor; people born in the Monkey’s year love a good challenge. A natural entertainer, they engage through creativity and charm. The Monkey can solve intricate problems with ease and is very resourceful. A person born under this year is naturally ambitious and can achieve things others dare not attempt.
Rooster (1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005, 2017, 2029)
The Rooster is the most misunderstood and eccentric of all the signs. They can come off brash and overconfident, but at heart they can be ultra-traditional. Roosters are outstanding performers, and they shine when they are the center of attention. Naturally charismatic, the Rooster is a gifted storyteller.
Dog (1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006, 2018, 2030)
A person born in the year of the Dog is intelligent and refreshingly straightforward. They have a deep sense of loyalty and a passion for justice and equity. People born under this year naturally know how to connect people and work with others, no matter how different.
Boar (1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007, 2019, 2031)
The Boar sign symbolizes honesty, simplicity, and courage. Boars are known to live in extremes. Whether it’s love, friendship, generosity, fashion—the Boar never does anything halfway! With such a big personality and passion for expression, the Boar never has a shortage of friends or invitations. This sign’s biggest challenge is saying”no.”
Rat (1936, 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008, 2020, 2032)
The Rat is known for charm and creativity. Straightforward and very inquisitive, they’re always in the know. How? They have such a disarmingly honest way of asking questions that we can’t help but spill the tea. Fun, dependable, and quite the deal-finder, Rats will be generous only to those they’re especially close to.
At Gay City, we recognize the intersections of the Queer community, and only seek to bring attention to local celebrations. We encourage you to learn more and donate to organizations hosting events.
Remember to respect the holiday and create space for those who celebrate to be centered at each event. Avoid appropriation. Please view your local COVID-19 recommendations prior to participation in any in-person event, which may include wearing a mask to social distancing.