Lunar New Year: Year of the Dragon

The dragon, a symbol of strength, power, and good fortune, is here to lead us into a year that promises to be nothing short of legendary.

The Lunar New Year approaches and 2024 is the Year of the Dragon. To celebrate the New Year, we take a look at the significance of this Chinese zodiac sign, and what it means to be a Dragon!

The Story of the Lunar New Year

According to legend, the Jade Emperor invited animals to meet him on New Year’s Day to become part of the calendar. It was decided that only the first twelve animals to arrive would be designated a year. The first to arrive was the Rat, who is said to have caught a lift on the horns of the Ox, who is the second creature on the calendar. They are followed by the Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Sheep, Monkey, Rooster, Dog and Pig.

The Jade Emperor is said to have been surprised that the Dragon came in fifth rather than first, as the dragon had the power to fly. The dragon explained that it had been delayed in its journey as it had helped to extinguish a fire in a field, make rain for people to drink and help the rabbit to cross the river. Thus, the dragon became the fifth animal of the zodiac.

What Does the Dragon Represent?

The dragon is the only mythical creature among the 12 zodiac animals and is considered one of the most powerful and auspicious signs. In Chinese culture, the dragon is a symbol of strength, power, and good fortune. It is associated with imperial authority and is often considered a harbinger of prosperity.

People born in the Year of the Dragon are believed to inherit the traits associated with this mythical creature. Personality traits associated with those born in the year of the dragon include intelligence, confidence, strength, ambition and charisma. They are considered lucky, gifted and perform to high standards. As such, many Chinese families try to aim to have their child within the Year of the Dragon - more babies are born in a dragon year than any other animal!

Wood Dragon

In Chinese astrology, each animal sign is associated with one of the five elements—wood, fire, earth, metal, and water. The specific combination of the animal sign and element determines the unique characteristics and energy of a particular year. For example, a Wood Dragon may be associated with growth and flexibility, while a Fire Dragon could be linked to passion and transformation. 2024 is the year of the Wood Dragon.

Which Years Have Been Year of the Dragon?

As well as 2024, the years 1928, 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, and 2012 have been Dragon years.

Which Famous People Were Born in the Year of the Dragon?

There are a number of famous people born in the Year of the Dragon, including Rihanna, John Lennon, Adele, Shakira, Tom Jones, Benedict Cumberbatch, Emma Stone and Patrick Stewart.

How to Celebrate the Year of the Dragon

One of the best ways to bring in the lunar new year is with food! There are many symbolic foods for the new year, which are commonly enjoyed each year to bring luck and prosperity for the coming months. As it’s the year of the dragon, you can also add in some dishes inspired by this mythical creature and feast like a dragon!

Fiery dishes, dragonfruit delights, and tasty dragon rolls are just a few options to tantalise your taste buds. Explore new culinary territories with our recipes and make your meals as legendary as the dragons themselves.

We wish you a prosperous Year of the Dragon and a happy lunar new year!