Welcoming the 2026 Lunar New Year: A Time for Renewal, Family, and Planning Ahead

In 2026, Lunar New Year begins on February 17th, marking the arrival of the first new moon of the lunar calendar. The celebration continues for fifteen days. It culminates with the Lantern Festival at the full moon.

Across cultures, Lunar New Year is a time of renewal—a moment to reflect on the past year. It is also a time to welcome fresh beginnings, and focus on family, prosperity, and well-being.

What Is Lunar New Year?

Lunar New Year is celebrated by billions of people worldwide, particularly within Asian communities. It reflects a rich tapestry of cultural traditions. While the holiday is often associated with China—where it is celebrated as the Spring Festival—many countries and cultures observe their own Lunar New Year with distinct customs. For example, these include Korea (Seollal) and Vietnam (Tết).

Despite the diversity of traditions, a shared theme unites these celebrations: new beginnings, family connection, and hope for the year ahead.

The Year of the Horse

The 2026 Lunar New Year ushers in the Year of the Horse in the Chinese zodiac. The Horse is traditionally associated with energy, forward momentum, independence, and perseverance. It symbolizes progress, determination, and the drive to move confidently toward the future. As a result, these qualities resonate strongly with planning and preparation.

A Natural Time to Reflect on Estate Planning

The themes of Lunar New Year—renewal, intention, and care for family—align naturally with the goals of estate planning, elder law, and special needs planning.

Just as Lunar New Year encourages thoughtful preparation for the year ahead, reviewing or creating an estate plan offers an opportunity to:

• Ensure your wishes are clearly documented
• Protect loved ones and future generations
• Plan for aging, long-term care, or special needs considerations
• Bring peace of mind to you and your family

For many families, gatherings during Lunar New Year provide a rare and meaningful opportunity to have important conversations about the future. In fact, such conversations can form the foundation of a thoughtful estate plan.

Honoring Our Community

At Russo Law Group, we are proud to serve a diverse community throughout the NYC metro area, including Nassau and Suffolk County. Additionally, we recognize and respect the cultural traditions that emphasize family, responsibility, and planning for future generations. These values are at the heart of our work.

Whether you are considering creating a will, updating an existing plan, planning for long-term care, or addressing the needs of a loved one with disabilities, the start of a new year—especially one rooted in reflection and intention—can be an ideal time to begin.

Wishing You a Prosperous New Year

As we welcome the Year of the Horse, we wish everyone who celebrates Lunar New Year health, happiness, and good fortune. In addition, may 2026 bring clarity, strength, and positive momentum for you and your family.

If you are inspired by the spirit of renewal this season, we are always here to help you plan for what lies ahead. So please do not hesitate to contact our office at 1 (800) 680-1717. We look forward to the opportunity to work with you.

Happy Lunar New Year from all of us at Russo Law Group!

Disclaimer: The information provided above is for general informational purposes only and is not legal advice.