Lunar New Year begins February 17—here's what it celebrates, why dates shift, and what the Year of the Fire Horse means.

The energy of the Fire Horse will be felt collectively. However, how we experience the energy of the pyro pony depends on our Chinese zodiac sign.

Based on the Chinese zodiac, the Lunar New year goes by a 12-year cycle. Each year is represented by a different animal. In order, the animals are: Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog and Pig.

The once-in-60-years Year of the Fire Horse promises to set us off at full gallop toward transformation, success, and personal fulfillment. But there are things to avoid, too.

The Lunar New Year is welcomed with a variety of cultural traditions and rituals such as carnivals, parades, fireworks and ancestor remembrance.

Firecrackers, red lanterns and elaborate firework displays are also a large part of the Lunar New Year spectacle around the world. Togetherness is a key component of the holiday, and many families come together to start the new year off by preparing and enjoying a meal that will bring them luck, good health and prosperity.

Chinese astrology and Feng Shui expert Vicki Iskandar tells PEOPLE what the Year of the Horse means for those born in the year of the Rabbit

Doing so would be equivalent to throwing away your luck. As Iskandar emphasizes, "don’t take out trash or do any sweeping on New Year’s Day itself as the acts symbolize your good luck for the year being trashed or swept away."

You scan social feeds and find the Fire Horse everywhere — memes, think pieces, and personal manifestos. It promises a symbolic reset for a generation juggling debt, climate anxiety, and stalled milestones,

Lan Su Chinese Garden's celebration includes lion dances, Chinese calligraphy, cultural performances and nighttime shows through March 8.