Explained: Why the 2024 Lunar New Year is called the “Year of the Wood Dragon”

The Year of the Dragon is associated with various taboos.

Lunar New Year, also known as Chinese New Year, begins on Saturday, February 10th. People celebrate this day as the “Year of the Wood Dragon”, marking the end of winter and ushering in spring.

Chinese New Year is the first new moon of the lunar calendar, usually between January 21st and February 20th. This year it begins on February 10, which also marks the beginning of the 15-day Spring Festival.

Let’s find out why 2024 is called the Year of the Wood Dragon.

What do you say about the Chinese zodiac?

The Chinese zodiac follows a 12-year cycle, with each year associated with an animal sign and one of the five basic elements (metal, wood, water, fire or earth). These elements combine to create rich symbolism and meaning. The zodiac signs include rat, tiger, rabbit, ox, dragon, snake, horse, sheep, monkey, rooster, pig, and dog.

Each animal sign is associated with one of the five basic elements and follows a cyclical pattern. When combined, they form a 60-year cycle. The Year of the Dragon 2024 has a unique connection with the wood element.

Year of the Dragon

The dragon occupies a special place in the Chinese zodiac, representing power, strength and good luck.

The sign Dragon is associated with the following years – 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012, 2024, etc. – each spaced 12 years apart.

People born in the Year of the Dragon are generally considered to be confident, ambitious, and charismatic. They are smart and powerful, exuding great energy and passion. They often achieve extraordinary results in their endeavors because they are born lucky and gifted. However, they may display unfavorable characteristics such as arrogance, subjectivity, and paranoia.

The Year of the Dragon is associated with various taboos in different places and periods in the Chinese world. However, there is consensus on certain taboos that should be observed:

According to reports, in the New World, the Year of the Dragon is also associated with some taboos, which vary by region and period.

Some of them are – avoid placing the bed in the northwest corner; avoid wearing dog-shaped jewelry and not buying new puppies, etc.