Lunar New Year 2026 officially arrives on February 17th, and this year we're galloping into the Year of the Fire Horse. From all of us here in the Phoenix area — 新年快乐 (Xīn Nián Kuài Lè) — Happy New Year! What's the Year of the Fire Horse All About? In the Chinese zodiac, the Horse is the seventh animal in a 12-year cycle and is known for its energy, bravery, and adventurous spirit. Pair that with the fire element and you've got a year that's all about bold moves, passion, and forward momentum. If you've been waiting for a sign to chase something big, the Fire Horse says *go for it*. People born in previous Horse years (1966, 1978, 1990, 2002, 2014) share traits like independence, enthusiasm, and a natural charm that draws others in. Celebrating Right Here in the Valley The Phoenix area always shows up for Lunar New Year, and 2026 is no exception. The 36th Annual Phoenix Chinese Week festival kicked things off at Historic Heritage Square with dragon and lion dances, live performances, amazing Asian food vendors, and tons of hands-on cultural activities — all with free admission. The celebrations continue throughout the month, with events at Desert Ridge Marketplace on February 21st and festive dining experiences at restaurants across the Valley. Whether you catch a lion dance performance or simply enjoy a special meal with family, there's no wrong way to ring in the new year. A Few Fun Traditions to Know Lunar New Year traditions are rich and meaningful. Red decorations and firecrackers trace back to an ancient legend about scaring away a fearsome creature called Nian. Families gather for a reunion dinner on New Year's Eve featuring dishes with symbolic meaning — dumplings for wealth, fish for abundance, and noodles for a long life. The 15-day Spring Festival wraps up with the Lantern Festival on March 3rd, celebrating the first full moon of the new year. It's a beautiful way to mark the end of winter and welcome the spring season ahead. Wishing You a Prosperous Year Ahead Whether you celebrate Lunar New Year or are simply curious about these traditions, we hope this Year of the Fire Horse brings energy, good fortune, and plenty of reasons to smile to everyone across the Phoenix community. Gōng Xǐ Fā Cái — wishing you happiness and prosperity! If you are ready for the ultimate luxury vehicle selection, head to Earnhardt Lexus. Schedule a test drive.
Happy Holi, Phoenix! It's Time to Celebrate the Festival of Colors
Spring is just around the corner, and so is one of the most joyful celebrations on the planet. Holi 2026 arrives on March 3rd and 4th, and at Earnhardt Lexus, we are sending the warmest, most colorful wishes to everyone across the Phoenix area. Happy Holi! What Is Holi? Holi is a Hindu spring festival — often called the "Festival of Colors" — and it's one of the most widely celebrated holidays in India and Hindu communities around the world. It's a two-day celebration that marks the arrival of spring, the triumph of good over evil, and the joy of togetherness. The festival kicks off on the evening of March 3rd with **Holika Dahan, a bonfire ceremony rooted in an ancient story about a young devotee named Prahlada who survived a fire meant to destroy him, while the demoness Holika did not. Lighting the bonfire symbolizes burning away negativity and welcoming a fresh start. Then comes the really fun part. On March 4th — Rangwali Holi — the streets come alive as people of all ages toss vibrant colored powders (called gulal) and splash colored water on friends, family, and even strangers. Music plays, sweets are shared, and for a little while, everyone is just laughing and covered in color together. The Colors Mean Something, Too Every hue tossed during Holi carries a bit of meaning. Blue represents devotion and is closely tied to Lord Krishna. Red symbolizes love, green stands for new beginnings and fertility, and yellow is associated with turmeric and good health. Traditionally, these powders were made from flowers, herbs, and natural ingredients — and many celebrations today still honor that eco-friendly approach. Celebrating Holi in the Phoenix Area The Valley has a thriving Holi scene. Phoenix's growing South Asian community keeps the tradition alive with festivals that draw thousands of people each year. Events like the India Association of Phoenix's celebration at South Mountain Park and ISKCON Phoenix's Festival of Colors in Chandler have become beloved annual traditions featuring live music, Bollywood dancing, delicious food, and of course, mountains of colorful powder. Wishing You a Colorful Spring Whether you're celebrating with family, heading out to a local festival, or simply soaking in the spirit of renewal that Holi represents, we hope this season brings you joy, connection, and plenty of color. Happy Holi, Phoenix!