The Chinese zodiac is based on the Chinese calendar that assigns an animal and its reputed attributes to each year in a repeating 12-year cycle.
With the Year of the Rabbit almost at its end, astrologer Inbaal Honigman has weighed in on what we can expect in 2024.
Speaking exclusively to Express.co.uk, she said: “In the Chinese Zodiac, 2024 is the year of the Dragon.
“Starting on February 10, the New Moon heralds the Dragon year, which will end on January 28, 2025.
“Chinese years go by the moon, which is why their dates are slightly different every year. They start on the new moon which is between January 21 and February 20.”
As the Chinese zodiac starts over every 12 years, everyone will live through their animal year again at the ages of 12, 24, 36, 48, 60, 72, and so on.
This year, it applies to people born in 1928, 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012, and 2024.
According to Inbaal, those people may experience an extra stroke of luck due to the attributes of this specific Chinese zodiac.
She explained: “The Year of the Dragon is seen as a year of good fortune. It signifies strength, health and power. Since Dragon energy is so lively and effervescent, it brings a lot of positivity, but can also herald conflict and challenges.
“The Dragon is the only symbol in the Chinese horoscope, which is a mythical creature and not a real animal. In Chinese culture, the Dragon is associated with rulership and represents the Emperor.”
Luckiest animals in 2024
Inbaal continued: “Since the Dragon year is a lucky one, 2024 promises to bring good fortune to all signs in the Chinese horoscope. Every sign will feel stronger, more powerful and capable.”
There are a few “special favourites”, however, including:
- Dragon (people born in 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000)
- Rat (people born in 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996)
- Monkey (people born in 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004)
Chinese horoscope 2024
Each of the “luckiest” animals will experience a different fate this year, with some faring better in love and others in their career and personal goals.
Inbaal said: “Dragon-born individuals will have a wonderful year in 2024 since everything and everyone is aligned to their sign. Their big personality and leadership qualities will not seem out of the ordinary. Their softer qualities of wisdom and benevolence will be appreciated and not taken advantage of. This is a good year for Dragons to climb the ladder and apply for bigger and bolder positions.
“Rat-born folk are hardworking and quick-witted. Their gentle nature can put them at a disadvantage, but the Dragon year in 2024 will bring luck to their door. They don’t believe in shortcuts and in doing things the easy way, and this year will put them in the right place at the right time so that they make friends with people in positions of power and influence.”
She continued: “Monkey-born people are cheeky. Smart, playful and attractive, their natural playfulness fits well with the powerful energy of the Dragon year. Their loud laughter will be welcomed by all. A monkey’s dream is to be able to turn their hobby into a career, and this year could bring their perfect opportunity.”
