As the Year of the Fire Horse begins on February 17, 2026, celebrations are in full swing across China and beyond, with hundreds of millions participating in the festivities. Tens of thousands lined the streets in Tsim Sha Tsui for Hong Kong's Cathay International Chinese New Year Night Parade, which featured a vibrant street party with local and international performers, leaving the crowd in awe of the dancers and dragons. This year's event attracted a significant turnout, with many arriving hours early to secure prime viewing spots. The celebrations are expected to attract a record 9.5 billion passenger trips across China during the Spring Festival, a notable increase from 9 billion trips last year, according to Euronews. Hong Kong will also host a spectacular 23-minute fireworks display themed 'Prosperity Gallops Across Hong Kong,' sponsored by the Hong Kong Jockey Club at a cost of HK$19 million (US$2.4 million).