Happy Lunar New Year, fearless travellers! We’ve officially galloped into the Year of the Fire Horse, and we have a feeling it’s going to live up to its reputation – wild and action-packed! 

Saddle up as we explore what the Year of the Fire Horse holds for travellers, before diving into Asia’s most iconic Lunar New Year festivals and how to budget if you’re attending. 

How does Lunar New Year differ from Chinese New Year?

You’ve probably heard both terms used interchangeably, but there is a difference between the two celebrations. Chinese New Year (CNY) is a celebration centred in China, while Lunar New Year is the collective term for the festivals held across East and Southeast Asia, with vibrant traditions in China (CNY), Japan (JPY), Korea (KRW), Malaysia (MYR), Philippines (PHP), Indonesia (IDR), Singapore (SGD), Vietnam (VND), and Thailand (THB).

Lunar New Year marks the first New Moon on the Solar Calendar. It’s a time of fresh starts, family reunions, and plenty of travel! 

What does the Year of the Fire Horse mean? 

If you thought the Dragon was intense last year, hold onto your hats! The Year of the Fire Horse is predicted to be a year of high-octane adventure. 

In the Chinese Zodiac, the Horse is a symbol of freedom and leadership. But when you add the Fire element, things get even spicier. Fire represents passion, creativity, and movement. Forget walking, the Fire Horse is galloping ahead. 

If you’ve been waiting for the right time to book that bucket-list trip, this is it. Embrace spontaneous getaways, exploring uncharted territories, and pushing your boundaries. 

Popular Lunar New Year celebrations in Asia 

If you’re planning to trek across Asia during Lunar New Year, you’ll need to know which party you’re attending and, more importantly, what currency is tucked inside those red envelopes.

While the dates are the same (starting February 17, 2026), the traditions – and the currency – change from country to country. 

China: The Spring Festival (Chun Jie)

The Spring Festival (Chun Jie) or Chinese New Year is China's most significant celebration, running for 15 days from February 17 to March 4, 2026. 

From mesmerising lantern displays in Beijing to the famous ‘Ice City’ in Harbin, cities go all out for the Chinese New Year. 

Currency you’ll need: Chinese Yuan (CNY) 

Average costs: 

• Temple Fairs: Approx. $12–$30 NZD per person for entry and snacks.
• Special reunion meals: Approx. $70–$175 NZD at a nice restaurant (booking weeks in advance is essential).
• Red envelopes: If you’re visiting local family or friends, budget to give around $24–$117 NZD (approx. ¥97.80 CNY - ¥489 CNY) per child/elder.

Vietnam: Tết

Vietnam’s Tết is a sight to be seen. Held on February 17, 2026, Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) comes alive with millions of blossoms arranged into stunning sculptures. It is a time for Bánh Chưng (savory sticky rice cakes) and drinking Cà Phê Muối (salt coffee) while watching the city parades.

Currency you’ll need: Vietnamese Dong (VND) 

Average costs: 

• Surcharges: Many restaurants and shops that stay open during the first three days of the holiday will add a 20-30% service fee to the bill.
• Flower Markets: Free to wander, but you’ll want around $12–$24 NZD for street food treats like ginger jam or dried fruits.
• Ao Dai rental: $30–$60 NZD to dress up for photos at the temples.
• Shop closures: Since budget eateries close, you might spend $47–$70 NZD/day on hotel dining or larger international restaurants.

South Korea: Seollal

Seollal is the most ‘traditional’ of the festivals, running for 3 days from February 17, 2026. While Seoul feels quieter as locals head to their hometowns, palaces like Gyeongbokgung are buzzing with activity. Catch people playing Yut Nori (a board game with sticks) and feast on Tteokguk – it is said that until you finish your bowl of rice cake soup, you haven’t truly turned a year older!

Currency you’ll need: South Korean Won (KWR) 

Average costs: 

• Entrance fees: Many palaces offer free entry to anyone wearing a Hanbok (traditional dress), which is a great way to save! Hanbok Rental ranges from $30–$53 NZD for a few hours.
• Food: $35–$70 NZD for a traditional multi-course meal.
• Sebaedon (gift money): If you join a family ceremony, a respectful gift for children is roughly $18–$47 NZD. 

Thailand: Trut Chin (Bangkok)

Bangkok’s Yaowarat Road (Chinatown) is pure adrenaline, running from around February 15 – 17, 2026. Unlike the family-focused Seollal, this is a public spectacle. Expect firecrackers at 3:00 am, lion dancers on every corner, and the absolute best food stalls in the country serving ‘lucky’ gold-coloured noodles.

Currency you’ll need: Thai Baht (THB) 

Average costs: 

• Street food: Put aside $24–$47 NZD per person for a night of indulgence at the plentiful food stalls
• Tuk-Tuks: Around $18–$35 NZD (drivers might charge a premium to navigate the festival crowds).
• Cash is king: Chinatown vendors are almost 100% cash-based, so keep enough Thai Baht on you! 

Whether you’re celebrating heart of Bangkok’s Chinatown or sharing a quiet bowl of Tteokguk in a Seoul palace, the Year of the Fire Horse is your permission slip to embrace spontaneity. 

But remember, just like horses need a steady supply of hay, you’ll need a stack of local currency to fuel your holiday. Order your foreign currency online (with 1hr Click and Collect!), or pop into your local Travel Money NZ store to grab the currency you need. 

_Disclaimer: 
Currency conversion according to retail rates as of February 11, 2026, and is subject to change. This blog is provided for information only and does not take into consideration your objectives, financial situation, or needs. You should consider whether the information and suggestions contained in any blog entry are appropriate for you, having regard to your own objectives, financial situation, and needs. While we take reasonable care in providing the blog, we give no warranties or representations that it is complete or accurate, or that it is appropriate for you. We are not liable for any loss caused, whether due to negligence or otherwise, arising from the use of, or reliance on, the information and/or suggestions contained in this blog.