Year of the Dragon: Years, Personality, Compatibility and Gifts

October 7, 2026

The Dragon is one of the 12 animals of the Chinese zodiac. Recent Dragon years: 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012, 2024.

Chinese New Year falls in late January or February, so if your birthday is early in the year, check whether you belong to the year before. Traditions vary; enjoy it for fun.

Dragon years

1928
1940: Born in 1940
1952: Born in 1952
1964: Born in 1964
1976: Born in 1976
1988: Born in 1988
2000: Born in 2000
2012
2024

Dragon personality traits

Confident
Ambitious
Energetic
Charismatic
Lucky

Compatibility

Traditionally best with: Rat and Monkey
Traditionally clashes with: Dog

Gift ideas for a Dragon

A statement piece
A luxury experience
Something gold
Star sign gifts: Star sign gifts

Key things to remember

Add their zodiac animal to a birthday card for a personal touch.

Frequently asked questions

What years are the year of the Dragon?

1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012, 2024.

Who is the Dragon compatible with?

Traditionally the Rat and the Monkey.

What is a good example of year of the Dragon?

"Traditionally best with: Rat and Monkey" is one of 20 examples on this page. Pick the one closest to the tone you want, then add a specific detail of your own - a shared memory, a date, a name - so it reads as yours rather than copied.

Can I copy these messages word for word?

Yes. Everything on this page is free to copy, print and read out - no permission or credit needed. Changing one detail so it fits the person is all we would suggest.

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