- Abuse & The Abuser
- Achievement
- Activity, Fitness & Sport
- Aging & Maturity
- Altruism & Kindness
- Atrocities, Racism & Inequality
- Challenges & Pitfalls
- Choices & Decisions
- Communication Skills
- Crime & Punishment
- Dangerous Situations
- Dealing with Addictions
- Debatable Issues & Moral Questions
- Determination & Achievement
- Diet & Nutrition
- Employment & Career
- Ethical dilemmas
- Experience & Adventure
- Faith, Something to Believe in
- Fears & Phobias
- Friends & Acquaintances
- Habits. Good & Bad
- Honour & Respect
- Human Nature
- Image & Uniqueness
- Immediate Family Relations
- Influence & Negotiation
- Interdependence & Independence
- Life's Big Questions
- Love, Dating & Marriage
- Manners & Etiquette
- Money & Finances
- Moods & Emotions
- Other Beneficial Approaches
- Other Relationships
- Overall health
- Passions & Strengths
- Peace & Forgiveness
- Personal Change
- Personal Development
- Politics & Governance
- Positive & Negative Attitudes
- Rights & Freedom
- Self Harm & Self Sabotage
- Sexual Preferences
- Sexual Relations
- Sins
- Thanks & Gratitude
- The Legacy We Leave
- The Search for Happiness
- Time. Past, present & Future
- Today's World, Projecting Tomorrow
- Truth & Character
- Unattractive Qualities
- Wisdom & Knowledge
FOLLOWERS
Users
Mastery Mondays
Today's World, Projecting Tomorrow
Projections for 2026
It’s an interesting exercise to think ahead to what might happen in the coming year. While we don’t have a crystal ball, we can make some projections for what could potentially happen in 2026.
In terms of the global economy, many experts are suggesting a potential slowdown in the economy, while others are projecting a stabilization. This depends on how some geopolitical issues get resolved (or not) in the coming year.
Inflation is hopefully going to ease up in the coming year, but prices are expected to remain high. It seems as though things will not be coming back down to pre-pandemic levels. That is a sad truth that many of us are facing - prices are high and it is challenging to meet basic needs.
The world is so connected today, and this can have ripple effects throughout the globe. AI will likely continue to become more powerful. While this has some good effects, it also has some challenges such as cybersecurity. AI in the workplace will continue to change the way that many jobs are done. That being said, valuable employees who bring necessary skills to the table will always be needed.
It’s my personal belief that loneliness will continue to be a major problem in many people’s lives. Between social media and people being addicted to their phones, and the lasting effects of covid, many people are lacking real relationships. This is continuing to cause issues in people’s mental health because we are not wired to be alone without a support system.
Those are just some of my thoughts on what might be to come in the new year. What do you think will be a trend that we will see in 2026?
Interesting Fact #1
If you’ve ever wondered what 2026 looks like in Roman numerals, it’s written as MMXXVI.
Interesting Fact #2
2026 is represented as 11111101010
Interesting Fact #3
2026 is recognized as a deficient number, which means that if you add up all the smaller numbers that can divide evenly into it, the sum will be less than the number itself.
Quote of the day
“2026: Mars is direct all year, and so are we.” ― Susan Mako
Article of the day - Fun Facts about the Lunar New Year 2026 (Year of the Fire Horse)
Lunar New Year is one of the biggest and most colourful celebrations in the world — and a wonderful festival for children to learn about in early years settings. From red lanterns and lucky envelopes to parades, drums and zodiac animals, there is so much to explore.
Below are fun, child-friendly facts about the Lunar New Year 2026, including the traditions, symbols and meaning behind the Year of the Fire Horse.
What is Lunar New Year?
Lunar New Year marks the beginning of the year according to the lunar calendar, which follows the cycles of the moon. Because this calendar doesn’t match the solar calendar used in the UK, the festival falls on a different date every year.
In 2026, Lunar New Year begins on Tuesday, 17 February.
Families celebrate by spending time together, decorating their homes, enjoying traditional meals and welcoming good fortune for the year ahead.
The Year of the Fire Horse (2026)
Every Lunar Year is linked with one of the 12 animals of the Chinese zodiac, paired with one of the five elements (Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal and Water).
2026 is the Year of the Fire Horse.
The Horse is traditionally associated with:
- Energy
- Confidence
- Creativity
- Playfulness
- Adventure
The Fire element adds warmth, enthusiasm and imagination. People born in a Fire Horse year are often described as spirited, curious and full of bright ideas.
Why does the date change each year?
Lunar New Year begins on the first new moon between late January and mid-February.
This means the festival can vary by several weeks from year to year.
For example:
- Lunar New Year 2025 began on 29th January
- Lunar New Year 2026 begins on the 17th February
This is a great opportunity for children to observe how calendars and seasons work!
Lunar New Year traditions and their meanings
1. Red decorations for good luck
Red is believed to bring good fortune and drive away bad spirits. Homes, schools and streets are decorated with red banners, lanterns and paper cuttings.
2. Giving red envelopes
Red envelopes are often filled with money or chocolate coins and symbolise:
- good wishes
- luck
- blessings for the year ahead
3. Cleaning the house before the New Year
Before the celebrations begin, many families clean their homes to "sweep away" the old year. However, on New Year's Dat, people avoid sweeping, cleaning or even washing hair so they dont clear away the good luck!
4. Symbolic New Year foods
Different foods can carry different meanings, for example:
- Dumplings for wealth
- Long noodles for a long life
- Mandarins for prosperity
- Rice cakes for growth
5. Dragon and lion dances
Lion and dragon dances are performed during celebrations and parades. The loud drums and colourful costumes are said to scare away bad spirits and bring joy and good fortune.
Fun facts for children:
- Lunar New Year is also called the Spring Festival.
- Celebrations last up to 15 days.
- Many people wear new clothes to welcome a fresh start.
- The final day is the Lantern Festival, when glowing lanterns fill the streets.
- In the story of the Chinese zodiac Great Race, the Horse finished in 7th place.
Looking for Lunar New Year Activity Ideas?
If you're planning themed crafts, play opportunities or EYFS learning experiences for 2026, take a look at our Lunar New Year activity blog posts, including ideas inspired by the Year of the Fire Horse.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Lunar New Year 2026?
Lunar New Year falls on the 17th February 2026
What is the zodiac animal for 2026?
2026 is the Year of the Fire Horse
Why does the date change each year?
Because Lunar New Year follows the lunar calendar, which is based on the cycles of the moon.
What kinds of food are eaten during the celebration?
Dumplings, noodles, fish, rice cakes and mandarins — each linked with luck, health or prosperity.
Check out our special Lunar New Year video to learn more about the exciting traditions and customs that mark the start of the calendar. From bustling markets to delicious feasts and lively dragon dances, we bring you a glimpse into the heart of this vibrant festival. Discover the significance of red lanterns, envelopes filled with money, and traditional foods, and see how families come together to celebrate this time-honoured event.
Question of the day - What current trend do you think will completely dominate the headlines in 2026, and why?
Today's World, Projecting Tomorrow
What current trend do you think will completely dominate the headlines in 2026, and why?
Subscribe to our newsletter
Daily archives
Current Survey
Top 5 Contributors (Jan)
20209 pts
12060 pts
10714 pts
10417 pts
10117 pts