USPS Celebrates Lunar New Year with Year of the Horse Stamp Release

Lunar New Year Year of the Horse Stamp Unveiled by USPS

On February 3, 2026, the U.S. Postal Service officially unveiled its Lunar New Year Year of the Horse stamp at a ceremony held in the vibrant setting of the Chinese Community Center in Houston, Texas. This special stamp celebrates the Year of the Horse, which begins on February 17, 2026, lasting until February 5, 2027.

The announcement comes as part of the USPS’s ongoing mission to honor the diversity and cultural milestones that shape American history. Postmaster General and CEO David Steiner emphasized the significance of this stamp, stating, "The Postal Service has been a vital institution in connecting Americans for over 250 years, and this stamp serves to spotlight our rich cultural mosaic."

Accompanying Steiner during the ceremony were notable figures including Gary Poon, the CEO of the Chinese Community Center, and other community leaders like Kenneth Li, the board chair of Houston’s Southwest Management District. The event had a festive atmosphere, with Lian Chen Walker, an opera artist, adding her musical talents to the celebration.

The Year of the Horse stamp is part of the USPS's third series dedicated to the Lunar New Year, which began in 2020. This stamp is the seventh in a lineup that will continue until 2031, featuring future stamps dedicated to the Year of the Ram, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Boar. Antonio Alcalá, the art director for USPS, took on the responsibility of creating this stunning design, collaborating with accomplished artist Camille Chew.

Camille Chew crafted the stamp using a uniquely expressive three-dimensional horse mask. The design draws inspiration from traditional paper-cut folk art and the elaborate masks featured in the dragon and lion dances that are integral to Lunar New Year celebrations. Chew's artistic process involved hand-printing paper, then cutting and folding it into the horse's mask shape, further embellished with acrylic paint, flowers, and tassels.

Alcalá shared his enthusiasm regarding the contemporary twist of this stamp series, noting that the modern designs have garnered positive responses, including a rather unique instance where a fan even tattooed the Year of the Rat design on her leg!

The Year of the Horse symbolizes qualities such as energy, confidence, and diligence — traits that many share as aspirations for the upcoming year. Notably, in American culture, these attributes resonate deeply with the ideals of freedom and independence, capturing the spirit of the American ethos. Both Asian Americans and non-Asians alike view the Year of the Horse as an opportunity to set new goals and embrace the drive towards success and prosperity.

The Lunar New Year Year of the Horse stamp is being issued in panes of 20 and acts as a Forever stamp, keeping its value aligned with the current First-Class Mail 1-ounce price. With the printing of 20 million stamps available for sale, the Postal Service seeks to infuse the upcoming celebrations with joy.

In an effort to reach communities globally, the excitement surrounding the stamp is reflected through the hashtags #LunarNewYearHorse and #LunarNewYearStamp. More details can be found at the USPS website, where customers can purchase the stamp online or at Post Office locations nationwide.

As an independent federal establishment, the USPS harnesses funds through the sale of its postage and products, ensuring they can continue to offer reliable mail and package delivery to millions across the nation. Celebrating its 250th year of service, the Postal Service remains dedicated to modernizing its operations while honoring its historical significance and connection to the American people.

For more information about this emblematic release, visit stampsforever.com and join in the joyous celebration of the Lunar New Year with the Year of the Horse stamp.