The lunar calendar, used in both Chinese and Vietnamese cultures, is divided into 12 segments, with each assigned an animal sign. The Chinese New Year celebration starts with the new moon on the first day of the new year and ends on the full moon 15 days later.

According to myths, the 12 animals of the Chinese zodiac were selected through a race. This race was meant to create a time measurement for people. There could only be 12 winners, and in order to win, the animals had to cross a swift river and reach the finish line on the shore.

There are many variations of this story. Some say the Jade Emperor called a race of animals on his birthday to create the Chinese zodiac. Others say it was the Buddha who did. The stories are essentially the same, save for some minor details.

In Chinese astrology, each zodiac sign is associated with a fixed, or perpetual, element. Every year is associated with an element as well. The elements are metal, water, wood, fire and earth. 2025 is wood and snake. Depending on what year you were born, you'll get a unique combination of a sign and an element.