As the much-loved Year of the Dragon draws to a close, Chinese communities worldwide are preparing to welcome the Year of the Snake, which begins on January 29, 2025 and lasts until February 16, 2026. According to Chinese astrology, this will be the Year of the Wood Snake.
Time for self-reflection, careful planning
As the much-loved Year of the Dragon draws to a close, Chinese communities worldwide are preparing to welcome the Year of the Snake, which begins on January 29, 2025 and lasts until February 16, 2026. According to Chinese astrology, this will be the Year of the Wood Snake.
The snake, the sixth animal in the Chinese zodiac, is often regarded as the most feared or disliked of the 12 symbols. Snakes, whether venomous or harmless, have long been a source of apprehension for humans.
This fear likely stems from childhood teachings warning of the dangers posed by snakes. Regardless of their size or species, snakes are often associated with potential harm.
Fear and misunderstanding
Historically, humans have had a complicated relationship with snakes, often rooted in fear and misunderstanding. Snakes’ quiet movements and potential venomous nature symbolise danger for many. Cobras, for example, are one of the most recognisable and feared snake species. Stories and cultural beliefs frequently portray snakes as enemies or mysterious creatures to be avoided, particularly in rural areas where snake bites were once a common threat.
In cities like Kuching, encounters with snakes in homes or vehicles often prompt residents to call firefighters for help. Yet, paradoxically, some people are so fond of snakes that they keep them as pets.
Superstitions about Snake Babies
Superstitions also contribute to the snake’s negative reputation. Some older Chinese women discourage their married daughters and daughters-in-law from giving birth during the Year of the Snake, believing that “snake babies” are less auspicious than those born in the Year of the Dragon or the next upcoming Year of the Horse (2026).
This sentiment starkly contrasts with the Year of the Dragon, during which many couples eagerly planned to have “dragon babies.”
While there is no specific data in Malaysia on birth rates during the Year of the Snake, statistics from China’s National Bureau of Statistics revealed a significant drop in births during 2013, the last Year of the Snake. Compared to 2012, the Year of the Dragon, births fell by 1.97 million. In Hong Kong, births in 2013 decreased by nearly 30,000 compared to the previous year, a drop of around 30 per cent.
A positive perspective
Despite its reputation, Chinese astrology paints an optimistic picture of those born in the Year of the Snake. It associates the snake with wisdom, intuition and grace. People born in this year are thought to possess charm, eloquence and strong analytical skills. They are strategic thinkers, capable of handling complex situations, and their adaptability allows them to thrive in various environments.
However, their intense emotional nature can sometimes lead to jealousy or possessiveness.
Traditionally, the Year of the Snake is seen as a time for self-reflection and careful planning, offering both challenges and opportunities.
Famous figures born in the Year of the Snake
Many notable personalities were born in the Year of the Snake, including:
John F. Kennedy (1917) — 35th President of the United States
Mahatma Gandhi (1869) — Leader of India’s non-violent independence movement
Pablo Picasso (1881) — Renowned Spanish painter and sculptor
J.K. Rowling (1965) — Creator of the Harry Potter series
Taylor Swift (1989) — Award-winning singer-songwriter
Oprah Winfrey (1954) — Media proprietor, actress, and talk show host
Prominent Chinese figures include Chairman Mao Zedong, founder of the People’s Republic of China, and current President Xi Jinping (1953).
Chinese New Year decorations
During the Year of the Dragon, shopping malls and streets were adorned with dragon-themed decorations to set the festive mood. This year, snake-themed decorations are less prominent. Even angpow packets featuring snake motifs are fewer in number, with some depicting snakes in cartoonish designs to make them more appealing.
One of the first places to display a snake-themed decoration is the Siniawan Heritage Old Town, 20 km from Kuching. This year, a striking snake figurine sits at the junction of the alley and main street to welcome visitors. Another snake figure, crafted from recycled materials such as old car tyres, was created by local artist Fook Liew.
In addition to snake motifs, Siniawan also features traditional peach blossoms, red lanterns and colourful umbrellas. The town has retained its popular dragon lantern from last year, along with an arch inspired by the Chinese legend of “Li Yu Tiao Long Men” (Carp Leaping Over the Dragon Gate), symbolising perseverance and success.
Reunion Dinner — the changing trend
A cornerstone of Chinese New Year celebrations is the Reunion Dinner on Chinese New Year’s Eve. This annual gathering brings together family members, even those working or studying abroad, to demonstrate love and respect.
Traditionally, the meal is prepared at home, with mothers often taking charge of the cooking. However, in recent years, particularly among urban families with busy lifestyles, dining at restaurants has become increasingly popular, easing the burden of home cooking.
