Happy Lunar New Year! The Year of the Snake is one of the 12 Chinese zodiac signs, and it's slithering with mystery, intrigue, adaptability and wisdom.
Lunar New Year is celebrated throughout many Asian cultures across the globe; whether you’re born under this sign or merely curious, here are 10 factoids to deepen your understanding of the Snake's symbolic allure...
1. When Does the Snake Slither Into the Calendar?
The Snake takes the stage every 12 years, following the Dragon and preceding the Horse. Since the Chinese zodiac aligns with the lunar calendar, the exact dates shift slightly, typically starting in late January or early February.
2. Snakes Have Their Elemental Layers
In Chinese astrology, each year is influenced by one of the five elements: Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, or Water. This means that 2025, for example, is not just a Snake year but a Wood Snake year. Each element adds a different twist to the Snake’s personality. For example, a Fire Snake might be charismatic and intense, while a Water Snake could be more introspective and wise.
during a lantern show celebrating Lunar New Year
(Pic: Zhang Yuan/China News Service/Getty Images)
3. Snakes Are Natural Philosophers
People born in a Snake year are often associated with intelligence, intuition, and a knack for deep thinking. They’re the zodiac’s philosophers, reflecting on life’s mysteries and offering insights.
4. Charm and Mystery Are Their Superpowers
Snakes are known for their enigmatic charm - their mysterious nature sometimes makes them hard to read, however, keeping people intrigued and on their toes.
5. Luck of the Snake
Snakes are believed to have good fortune, but they need to work for it. They aren’t necessarily the type to win the lottery, but their cleverness helps them turn opportunities into gold. NB: If you’re a Snake, green and black are considered your lucky colors (so channel your inner Slytherin).
miniature sculptures carved in the shape of the twelve zodiac animals.
6. Compatibility Insights
In the romance department, Snakes are most compatible with the Ox and Rooster. Together, these signs form a powerful trio of loyalty, stability, and shared goals. On the flip side, Snakes might find the Tiger and Pig a bit tricky to get along with - think oil meeting water.
7. Famous Snakes in History
An eclectic array of iconic figures share the Snake zodiac sign: Mahatma Gandhi, Audrey Hepburn, and Taylor Swift, for starters. These individuals embody the Snake’s creativity, wisdom, and flair for making an impact.
The Dublin Lunar New Year 2025 programme is here! 🐍✨
— Dublin Lunar New Year (@DublinLunarNY) January 8, 2025
Join us from Jan 25 – Feb 2 for workshops, exhibitions, food & drinks, visual arts and more across the city.
Learn more: https://t.co/lgaQEaOQ6m #DublinLunarNewYear #YearOfTheSnake pic.twitter.com/wP9EwX6ubZ
8. Snakes and Health
According to traditional beliefs, Snakes need to guard against overthinking. Their tendency to analyze everything can sometimes lead to stress. So learning to chill out is an important part of their evolution.
9. A Snake’s Career Path
Snakes excel in roles requiring precision and insight, like researchers, writers, or even detectives. Their ability to stay calm under pressure makes them invaluable in high-stakes environments.
10. The Snake’s Symbolism in Chinese Culture
In Chinese mythology, the Snake is a symbol of transformation and healing. While Western cultures sometimes associate snakes with danger, in China, they’re often linked to wisdom and renewal. They shed their skin and emerge stronger - a lesson in embracing change.
The Dublin Lunar New Year festival runs from Saturday 25th Jan - Sunday 2nd Feb 2025 - find out more here.
