Chinese New Year 2025 - Year of the Wood Snake

Coming after the dragon and before the goat, the snake is 6th in order in the 12-year Chinese Zodiac cycle of the lunar calendar.

According to Chinese folklore, the zodiac order was originally decided by a race between the earth’s creatures. One of the most popular versions of this story asserts that the Jade emperor organized the competition, decrying that a race between 12 creatures would determine their place in the order of the. The first three to cross were the rat, followed by the ox, then the tiger.

The story of the Great Race, also known as the Great Chinese Zodiac Race or "Shǔxiàng Zhī Lì" (十二生肖之 竞赛) in Chinese, which translates to the "Competition of the Twelve Animals", explains the order of the 12 Chinese zodiac animals and how they were assigned their positions in the zodiac cycle. According to the legend, the Jade Emperor, the ruler of the heavens, organized a race to determine the order of the zodiac signs.

In the story of the Great Race, which explains the order of the Chinese zodiac, the snake plays a clever and somewhat sneaky role.

As the race began, the ox took an early lead, plowing steadily through the river. Not far behind, the horse galloped into the water, its strong legs cutting through the current with ease. The snake, watching from the riverbank, spotted the horse as the perfect means to cross. Quietly and without notice, the snake slithered onto the horse’s leg and coiled itself tightly.

The horse, unaware of its unexpected passenger, continued its journey. Together, they surged ahead of the other animals, drawing closer to the finish line on the far shore. Just as the horse prepared to step onto dry land and claim a high position in the race, the snake uncoiled and sprang forward. The sudden movement startled the horse, causing it to rear back in surprise.

Taking advantage of the horse’s hesitation, the snake darted ahead and crossed the finish line before it. It secured sixth place in the zodiac, leaving the horse to take seventh.

The Jade Emperor, impressed by the snake’s ingenuity, awarded it the sixth year in the cycle. The snake’s cunning and strategic thinking became a defining part of its reputation in the zodiac, symbolizing intelligence, resourcefulness, and the ability to seize opportunities.

Personality Traits of the Snake Zodiac

The Snake in Chinese astrology is known for its intelligence, resourcefulness, and charm. Snakes are natural strategists who excel at analyzing situations and finding creative solutions to challenges. Their calm and graceful demeanor makes them persuasive and influential, often leading to success in both personal and professional spheres. They are also highly intuitive, relying on their keen instincts to guide them in making decisions.

On the other hand, Snakes can be secretive and reserved, preferring to keep their thoughts and plans to themselves. This enigmatic quality might make them appear mysterious or even untrustworthy to others. They tend to overthink and can be cautious to a fault, taking their time to act. However, their determination, adaptability, and focus on long-term goals often ensure they achieve success in their endeavors.

Chinese Zodiac Outlook for 2024

For the Year of the Wood Snake in 2025, the associated element is Wood. The last time the Year of the Wood Snake occurred was in 1965, and the next occurrence will be in 2085. Each combination of zodiac sign and element is believed to influence the characteristics and attributes of individuals born in that year.

Wood is linked to growth, flexibility, and expansion. In the context of the Year of the Wood Snake, it may bring about a period of innovation, reflection, and adaptability. Snakes might find success by leveraging their intelligence and strategic thinking to navigate opportunities. Individuals born in this year might embody the Snake’s qualities of wisdom, charm, and resourcefulness, enhanced by the nurturing and forward-thinking attributes of the Wood element.

Here's a brief overview for the rest of the zodiac sign members in 2025:

Rat: A promising year for career growth and professional development. Rats may find opportunities to step into leadership roles or gain recognition for their efforts. Focus and determination will be key.

Ox: A year to prioritize relationships and teamwork. Collaboration could lead to significant achievements, and Ox individuals might find support from unexpected places.

Tiger: Tigers might experience a year of exploration and change. Whether through travel, education, or career shifts, Tigers are likely to uncover new opportunities.

Rabbit: A harmonious year where Rabbits can focus on refining their personal goals and nurturing their close relationships. Financial stability might also be a theme.

Dragon: A year of bold moves and high energy. Dragons may take the lead in both personal and professional endeavors, with their confidence opening new doors.

Horse: A dynamic year for Horses, filled with opportunities to innovate and pursue creative passions. Networking might play a crucial role in their success.

Goat (Sheep): A supportive year for building strong foundations. Goats could see progress in long-term projects and find comfort in family and community connections.

Monkey: A fast-paced and exciting year where Monkeys might need to juggle multiple responsibilities. Their natural adaptability will help them thrive.

Rooster (Chicken): A year of focus and discipline. Roosters may excel in areas requiring attention to detail, and their efforts could lead to significant achievements.

Dog: A nurturing year for personal and emotional well-being. Dogs might prioritize building and strengthening their support systems.

Pig (Boar): A year of prosperity and abundance. Pigs might find success in financial endeavors and enjoy the rewards of their past efforts.