lunar new year | fire horse on dixon 2026

In 2026, Lunar New Year begins on 17 February, ushering in the Year of the Fire Horse. 

People born in the Year of the Horse are often described as being strong, confident, creative and adventurous.

They value freedom and dislike being constrained, often speaking in a direct, straightforward way.

Coupled with the element of Fire, those born in the Year of the Fire Horse are said to be especially energetic, endurant and aspire to great success.

The Fire Horse on Dixon sculpture is designed as a luminous urban landmark during Sydney’s Lunar New Year period, projecting the same qualities of those born in the Year of the Fire Horse.

Composed of a series of interlocking timber panels and vibrant neon outlines, the horse appears in a powerful prancing stance – a visual reference to movement, energy and prosperity.

The mid-leap motion symbolises the unusually late arrival of the Lunar New Year in 2026, which is due to a leap month in the lunisolar calendar.

At night, the illuminated lines create a fiery halo around the form, echoing the symbolic characteristics of the Fire Horse: strength, vitality and bold momentum.

Set within the streetscape of Sydney’s Haymarket, the sculpture is a beacon in drawing the community together to the heart of Chinatown to celebrate the Lunar New Year together.