Centuries ago, the myth of the Lunar New Year was created, evolving into a household tale passed down for generations to come. This story consisted of a race proposed by the Jade Emperor, who rewarded the top 12 animals with their own year. With the use of bravery, trickery, intelligence, and teamwork, the 12 animals crossed the line finishing in this order: the Rat, Ox, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat/Sheep, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig. As promised, the animals were given their own year to claim, which became a cycle that occurs every 12 years. Throughout generations, people believed that these animals, which correspond to the year they are born, relate to personal characteristics and possess the potential to predict their upcoming year’s fortune. With the Lunar New Year celebration approaching on February 17, 2026, it is a good time to recognize this past year’s notable qualities and predict the upcoming year’s in regard to their animal. 

To start, the Year of the Pig includes people who are praised for traits like honesty, compassion, being energetic, and hardworking. According to Chinese New Year, 2025 was a challenging year likely filled with obstacles for the Pig. They learned the importance of hard work and the lesson that “the more effort you put in, the greater the rewards”. Differing from 2025, 2026 will be a year filled with challenges, but also great achievements and fruitful opportunities. Since many of our seniors were born throughout the Year of the Pig, this may be a manifestation of their future success and smooth transition to the nextchapter of their lives. 

Students born in 2008 fall into the Year of the Rat. Finishing first in the Zodiac Race, Rats are known for being clever, quick thinkers, and successful. 2025 was reported to be an overall steady year with no major obstacles. The year was deemed lucky in the themes of career and love, specifically. Going into 2026, horoscopes have predicted it to be a more challenging year than the last due to the rat being on the opposite side of the zodiac cycle. Although they may face some challenges, they will learn invaluable lessons along the way. With the help of patience throughout the year, Rats will find countless new possibilities.

Next in the Zodiac cycle comes the Ox. During the race, the Ox helped the Rat, leading it to cross the finish line and win first place. This story relates to why people born in the year of the Ox are portrayed as hardworking, dependable, strong, loyal, and determined. For Oxen, 2025 was a beneficial year that offered an abundance of adventure and success. This upcoming year is predicted to be steady, but will still encourage Oxen to step outside of their comfort zones. Expressed by Brielle Scarborough (10), “2025 was a year full of opportunities for me as I was entering my Sophomore year of high school. I am excited to see what is in store for me in 2026, as I plan to step outside of my comfort zone with academics as well as performing arts”. 

Following the Year of the Ox, students born in 2010 have the Tiger Zodiac Sign. Tigers often possess key personality traits such as being brave, confident, competitive, ambitious, impulsive, and adventurous. For Tigers, this past year has been a mixture of challenges and fortunes. Despite all of the hardships they faced, they were able to overcome them and find success within. In contrast to 2025, this upcoming year will have a more exciting and playful atmosphere. 

Lastly, the Year of the Rabbit represents many freshmen at Yorba Linda High School. People born within these times are often known for having a more gentle and creative side. As a freshman, 2025 meant entering high school and adapting to a new environment, and it was a year full of positive changes with numerous new opportunities. According to Emanuel Taleno (9), “Entering high school was a change for the better. I was able to make many new friends, strengthen existing friendships, and even pursue my interests, such as joining the wrestling team”.  As for 2026, students born in 2011 will have a rewarding year ahead of them. Although they may encounter setbacks, 2026 will shape out to be a steady year, finishing the second semester of freshman year and entering sophomore year. 

The myth of the Lunar New Year acts as an exciting way for many individuals to “predict” their upcoming year while simultaneously reflecting on the past one. The Zodiac Sign tradition is a part of Lunar New Year festivities and a significant part of many people’s cultures.