Arrival of the Fire Horse.
- Ken Koh
- 4 days ago
- 3 min read
Spring begins in the solar calendar and with it, the start of the Year of Fire Horse. 4th February 2026 at 4.02am marks Li-Chun （立春）, the first solar term of 24 in the year in many East Asian lunar-solar calendars.
The is the definitive turning point between the stillness of winter and the awakening of the natural world.
In 2026, this solar term begins precisely at 4:02 AM on February 4th, signaling a profound energetic shift.
The Awakening & understanding what Spring brings.
At exactly 4:02 AM on February 4th, 2026, the Sun reaches the celestial longitude of 315°.
This is not just a moment on a clock; it is the astronomical start of spring. While the ground may still be cold in many parts of the world, this "Beginning of Spring" (Li Chun) marks the point where the Yang energy begins to rise and overtake the Yin.
The historical Farmer's calendar.
Historically, Li Chun was the most important of the 24 solar terms in ancient agricultural societies. It served as a vital "start button" for farmers.
The Solar Term: Unlike the Lunar New Year, which fluctuates, Li Chun is based on the sun’s position. It has remained the consistent anchor for the agricultural calendar for millennia.
The Imperial Connection: In ancient China, emperors would lead grand ceremonies to welcome the spring, praying for a bountiful harvest and performing symbolic plowing rites to set the tone for the nation's prosperity.
2. The significance it brings.
While the Lunar New Year (celebrated on February 17, 2025) marks the social beginning of the year, many practitioners of traditional metaphysics consider February 4th to be the actual start of the zodiac year.
Entering the Fire Horse: In 2026, this day marks the transition into the Year of the Fire Horse. The Horse is known for its speed, independence, and vitality, while the Fire element adds passion and intensity.
A "Double Spring" or "Single Spring": Because Li Chun falls before the Lunar New Year in 2026, it influences how the year is perceived in terms of growth and luck. A year that begins with the "Arrival of Spring" is often seen as a year of potential and "blossoming" opportunities.
3. The traditions & cultures.
Different cultures celebrate this seasonal pivot with unique rituals designed to "trap" good fortune and health.
The observations of nature.
As we cross the threshold at 4:02 AM, look for these subtle "Spring Observations" mentioned in ancient texts:
The East Wind: Legend says the east wind thaws the ice on this day.
The Hibernating Insects: It is the time when insects and small animals begin to stir in their burrows, sensing the change in the earth's temperature.
The Fish: Fish are said to swim upward, closer to the surface of the water, as the ice begins to thin.
Final thoughts.
The Arrival of Spring is a reminder of the cyclical nature of life.
Whether you observe it by balancing an egg, depositing savings, or simply taking a moment at 4:02 AM to breathe in the changing air, it is a day to set intentions.
As we move into the high-octane energy of the Fire Horse, let this day be your foundation for a year of momentum and warmth.
Wishing you all a bountiful and successful Horse Year ahead.
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