Sliding into Lunar New Year 2025: the Year of the Snake
What is the Lunar New Year (aka Chinese New Year)?
Lunar New Year is just around the corner, and 2025 marks the Year of the Snake! This festive celebration is the perfect time to clean your home, prepare symbolic dishes, and reflect on the upcoming year's possibilities.
While the holiday has historical origins that are deeply rooted in Chinese and East Asian traditions, the celebrations are by no means exclusive to these cultural groups. Everyone is welcome to join in and rejoice in the new year again!
Last year, we shared context on the history of Lunar New Year (also known as Chinese New Year) and fun ways to honor our traditions. This year we’re diving more specifically into the superstitions and zodiac signs around this holiday.
What’s the symbolism of Lunar New Year 2025?
So, what does the Snake bring for your Chinese zodiac sign, and how do the elements play into it? Let’s unravel the mysteries of this slithery year.
The Snake: A Symbol of Wisdom and Transformation
In Western pop culture, snakes often represent a mix of values ranging from determined to manipulative, from cunning to deceptive. For example, famous media references like Slytherin in Harry Potter or the villain Kaa in Disney’s Mowgli end up portraying snakes as villainous and evil.
In Chinese astrology, the Snake is often associated with intuition, elegance, and deep thought. People born in Snake years (e.g., 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, 2013) are believed to possess a mysterious charm and keen intellect. The Snake’s energy in 2025 encourages personal growth, introspection, and transformation—think of it as shedding old skin to reveal a shinier, version of yourself.
This year also calls for caution. Snakes are known for their privacy and, at times, stealth… so hasty decisions could backfire. Take your time to assess situations, especially in relationships and career moves. After all, the Snake’s wisdom lies in its patience.
Elements Matter: What’s Your Elemental Snake?
Chinese astrology doesn’t stop at the animals—each zodiac sign is influenced by one of the five elements: Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water. These elements cycle every 60 years, adding unique twists to the zodiac's characteristics. 2025 is a Wood Snake year, which emphasizes growth, creativity, and connection to nature.
What Does the Wood Snake Mean for You?
The Wood Snake encourages adaptability and growth, much like the twisting roots of a tree. It’s a year to nurture relationships and embrace creative ventures. However, don’t let indecisiveness (a Wood trait) hold you back.
Your Zodiac in the Year of the Snake
Here’s how each zodiac sign might fare in this transformative year:
1. Lunar New Year Forecast for the Rat (1984, 1996, 2008, 2020)
Forecast: A year of hidden opportunities! Your natural wit pairs well with the Snake’s wisdom, making it a good time for strategic career moves.
Lucky tip: Keep jade or green stones nearby for good luck.
2. Lunar New Year Forecast for the Ox (1985, 1997, 2009, 2021)
Forecast: Patience is your virtue, and it’ll serve you well as challenges arise. Lean on your resilience to navigate the twists of the Snake year.
Lucky tip: Decorate your home with plants for positive energy.
3. Lunar New Year Forecast for the Tiger (1986, 1998, 2010, 2022)
Forecast: The Snake’s subtle energy may clash with your boldness. Focus on listening more and acting with intention.
Lucky tip: Avoid red for major decisions; opt for calming blues.
4. Lunar New Year Forecast for the Rabbit (1987, 1999, 2011, 2023)
Forecast: A harmonious year awaits. The Snake’s creativity boosts your artistic ventures and social life.
Lucky tip: Wear silver jewelry to attract luck.
5. Lunar New Year Forecast for the Dragon (1988, 2000, 2012, 2024)
Forecast: The Snake’s wisdom tempers your fiery nature. It’s a year to plan rather than act impulsively.
Lucky tip: Incorporate gold accents in your outfits for prosperity.
6. Lunar New Year Forecast for the Snake (1989, 2001, 2013, 2025)
Forecast: It’s your year! Use your intuitive gifts to seize opportunities, but beware of overthinking.
Lucky tip: Burn sandalwood incense for clarity.
7. Lunar New Year Forecast for the Horse (1978, 1990, 2002, 2014)
Forecast: The Snake’s steady pace may feel restrictive, but it’s a chance to slow down and realign your goals.
Lucky tip: Surround yourself with earthy tones to ground your energy.
8. Lunar New Year Forecast for the Goat (1979, 1991, 2003, 2015)
Forecast: A supportive year for nurturing relationships. Embrace collaboration and lean on friends.
Lucky tip: Keep lavender nearby to reduce stress.
9. Lunar New Year Forecast for the Monkey (1980, 1992, 2004, 2016)
Forecast: Your cleverness aligns well with the Snake’s strategic thinking. Plan ahead to maximize gains.
Lucky tip: Avoid over-scheduling; balance is key.
10. Lunar New Year Forecast for the Rooster (1981, 1993, 2005, 2017)
Forecast: The Snake’s precision complements your attention to detail. Perfect for career growth!
Lucky tip: Carry a talisman in your wallet for extra luck.
11. Lunar New Year Forecast for the Dog (1982, 1994, 2006, 2018)
Forecast: You’ll need to rely on your loyalty and honesty to overcome obstacles this year.
Lucky tip: Meditate with amethyst for inner peace.
12. Lunar New Year Forecast for the Pig (1983, 1995, 2007, 2019)
Forecast: The Snake’s cunning energy encourages financial planning and saving. Stay vigilant.
Lucky tip: Incorporate red in your wardrobe for prosperity.
Superstitions for a Lucky Lunar New Year
Clean your house before New Year’s Day to sweep away bad luck (but don’t clean on the day itself!).
Wear new clothes (preferably in lucky colors like red or gold) to start fresh.
Avoid sharp objects, which are believed to cut off good fortune.
Give red envelopes filled with money to spread blessings.
Final Thoughts
The Year of the Snake is all about transformation, wisdom, and strategic growth. Whether you’re a fiery Dragon or a patient Ox, this year’s energy encourages us all to embrace change and think carefully before we act. So get your zodiac in check, consult the elements, and prepare for a prosperous Lunar New Year—the Snake has a few surprises up its sleeve!
If you’d like to talk through what this means for your own life, feel free to submit Anise’s intake form here to get matched to our culturally-informed therapists and coaches.
