Many couples use the Chinese zodiac when choosing a wedding date. An auspicious date can support a long, happy marriage. Your signs, lucky days, and the lunar calendar all play a role. This guide helps you pick a wedding date that fits Chinese zodiac traditions.
Why Wedding Dates Matter in Chinese Culture
Weddings are a big life step. The date sets the tone. In Chinese tradition, some days bring harmony and luck. Others may bring conflict. Couples often avoid dates that clash with their signs. They favor dates with lucky numbers and good energy.
Find your sign and your partner's with our zodiac finder. Check love compatibility to see how you fit. Browse our categories and best days and months guide.
Using Lucky Days for Your Sign
Each zodiac sign has lucky days in the lunar month. Plan your wedding on a day that is lucky for both of you. If that is hard, favor the bride's lucky day. Tradition often puts more weight on the bride's date. See our best days and months article for lists.
Lucky Wedding Months by Sign
Some lunar months suit certain signs better. Pick a month that works for both. Here is a quick guide.
| Sign | Lucky Lunar Months | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Rat | 1, 7 | Spring and fall often work |
| Ox | 4, 12 | Stable, traditional months |
| Tiger | 1, 3 | Early year energy |
| Rabbit | 3, 4, 9 | Gentle, peaceful months |
| Dragon | 1, 6, 7 | Strong, auspicious |
| Snake | 2, 8, 9 | Calm, strategic |
| Horse | 2, 3, 7 | Active, change |
| Goat | 2, 7, 8 | Creative, warm |
| Monkey | 4, 9, 12 | Playful, social |
| Rooster | 5, 7, 8 | Proud, clear |
| Dog | 3, 4, 9 | Loyal, family |
| Pig | 2, 5, 8 | Abundant, happy |
Dates to Avoid
Some dates are seen as less favorable. Avoid the 4th of the month if you can. The number 4 sounds like "death" in Chinese. Avoid the 7th month in the lunar calendar. It is the Ghost Month. Many avoid major events then. Also skip your ben ming nian (birth year) if possible. See our birth year guide.
Lucky Numbers in the Date
Include lucky numbers in your wedding date. The number 8 is best. It sounds like "prosper." Dates like 8/8 or 18 are popular. The number 9 means longevity. Dates with 6 suggest smoothness. Use our lucky numbers guide for your signs.
Clashing Signs and Wedding Dates
Some zodiac pairs clash. Rat and Horse. Ox and Goat. Tiger and Monkey. Rabbit and Rooster. Dragon and Dog. Snake and Pig. If you and your partner clash, pick a date that favors a neutral sign or that does not add more clash energy. Read our zodiac signs that avoid each other and best and worst pairings.
Lunar vs Western Calendar
Chinese tradition uses the lunar calendar. Lunar months do not match our calendar. Lunar New Year shifts each year. Use a lunar calendar or consult a specialist for exact dates. Our best days and months guide explains more.
Quick Tips
Pick a date with 8 or 9 in it. Avoid the 4th. Choose a month that suits both signs. Stay away from Ghost Month. Consider your lucky colors for the decor. See our lucky colors and lucky flowers for the big day.
FAQs
How do I find my Chinese zodiac sign?
Use our zodiac calculator. Enter your birth date. We handle Lunar New Year.
What is the best wedding date in Chinese tradition?
Dates with 8 or 9 are favored. Pick a day that is lucky for both you and your partner. Avoid the 4th and Ghost Month.
What is Ghost Month?
Ghost Month is the 7th lunar month. It is linked to spirits. Many avoid weddings and major events then.
Should we avoid marrying in our birth year?
Tradition says ben ming nian can be tricky. If you marry then, pick a lucky day and wear red for protection.
Where can I get exact lunar dates?
Use a lunar calendar online or in print. Some wedding planners specialize in Chinese auspicious dates.