This year’s Chinese New Year begins on February 10, with people all around the world enjoying the lunar calendar’s most important holiday.
It also marks the beginning of the Year of the Dragon in the Chinese zodiac, bringing attention to all individuals born under this sign.
This type of astrology divides people into 12 signs, each symbolised by a different animal and indicating common characteristics.
There are additional sign categories that vary on a regular basis, such as Water, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Wood, which is this year’s element.
But what does all of this entail in practice?
For those unfamiliar with the Chinese zodiac, here’s all you need to know about the year of the Wood Dragon, including what it implies for your plans.
What are the Years of the Dragon?
You are a Dragon native if you were born between the following dates:
- January 23, 2012 – February 9, 2013
- February 5, 2000 – January 23, 2001
- February 17, 1988 – February 5, 1989
- January 31, 1976 – February 17, 1977
- February 13, 1964 – February 1, 1965
- January 27, 1952 – February 13, 1953
Dragon personality traits
According to legend, the Chinese zodiac originated from an old saying known as The Great Race. According to the tale, the Jade Emperor assigned a group of animals to cross a running river, with the order in which they arrived on the other side defining their place on the calendar.
The Dragon finished fifth, which astonished the Emperor given that it could fly and was one of the strongest beasts in the race. Despite this, the Dragon had been sidetracked, causing rain so the other animals could drink and creating wind to enable the Rabbit (who was now floating over the river on a log) arrive first.
As a result, Dragon inhabitants are seen to be intrinsically gifted and strong, with a drive to take risks in order to improve the world.
This is the only legendary creature in the Chinese zodiac, and it is a particularly favourable sign, representing power, nobility, honour, luck, and prosperity.
In terms of abilities, persons born in the Year of the Dragon are regarded to be natural leaders who are knowledgeable, ambitious, adventurous, and articulate.
There are certain drawbacks, though. Dragon locals might be arrogant at times, or look elusive and scary to others. They may also be judgmental of others or get fixated on perfection and abandon projects at the first indication of difficulty.
The Wood Dragon, in particular, is thought to be more introverted than dragons connected with other elements, with less desire to form or maintain personal connections.
Nonetheless, they are dedicated workers who devote their entire lives to accomplishing their goals, and they are frequently innovative and curious.
Dragon compatibility
The Chinese zodiac’s most compatible signs with the Dragon are the Rooster, Rat, and Monkey.
The Rooster’s independence complements the Dragon’s, resulting in a ‘power couple’ who support each other achieve professional and financial goals.
Rat natives, on the other hand, may coexist peacefully since they have a common passion and intellect, as well as a shared knowledge of the universe.
The Dragon and Monkey make a fantastic pairing since they are both amorous and social. If they can control their impulsiveness, they may each add something distinctive to the relationship: the Monkey offers foundation and organisation, and the Dragon provides protection from life’s challenges.
Year of the Dragon horoscope for 2024
Those born in the Year of the Dragon share qualities, but according to Chinese astrology, it also influences how the year unfolds.
With the Dragon’s magical abilities and relationship with luck, all signs may look forward to a transforming, exciting 2024.
You can get your personalised Chinese New Year horoscope here, but in general, the year will be characterised by a sense of curiosity, whether that means learning new things, exploring new hobbies, or taking risks with relationships.
There may also be a baby boom, since the Year of the Dragon has historically seen the largest number of births in the 12-year Chinese calendar cycle.
Because of the Wood element’s influence, all of this creativity and change will be balanced with contemplation. So, while it will be considerably different from the peace-focused Year of the Rabbit in 2023, action will coexist with a strong sense of ethics.
Forge ahead like the Dragon, but keep an eye out for trapped rabbits or thirsty creatures along the way.
